This article analyses the character and nature of succession in the Pre-Islamic Arabic society and in the period of al-Khulafâ’ al-Rashidûn. It assumes that both periods share a lot in common in terms of conditions of leadership, which include seniority, bravery, generosity, good and noble family background, and the ability to safeguard the tribe. The principle of consultation (mushâwarah), which Islam talks about on many occasions, is also present in the two periods. This is despite the fact that during the period of al-Khulafâ’ al-Râshidûn there were such practices as direct election –in the case of Abû Bakr and ‘Alî b. Abî Tâlib-, appointment by the former caliph –in the case of ‘Umar b. Khattâb- and election by a committee appointed by the caliph in the case of ‘Uthmân b. ‘Affân.