Hazrat Umar (R.A) Biography: Umar was born in Mecca to the Banu Adi clan, which was responsible for arbitrations among the tribes. His father was Khattab ibn Nufayl and his mother was Hantammah daughter of Khattab, from the tribe of Banu Makhzum. He was the cousin of Khalid ibn al-Walid, a general who would play an important role later in his life, and during a wrestling match between the two, Umar had his leg broken. He is said to have belonged to a middle class family. In his youth he used to tend to his father’s camels in the plains near Mecca. His father was famed for his intelligence among his tribe. He was a middle class merchant and is believed to have been a ruthless man and emotional polytheist who often treated Umar badly. As obvious from Umar's own statement regarding his father during his later political rule, Umar said, "My father AlKhittab was a ruthless man. He used to make me work hard; if I didn't work he used to beat me and he used to work me to exhaustion." Despite literacy being uncommon in pre-Islamic Arabia, Umar learned to read and write in his youth. Although not a poet himself, he developed a love for poetry and literature. According to the tradition of Quraish, while still in his teenage years, Umar learned martial arts, horse riding and wrestling. He was tall and physically powerful and soon became a renowned wrestler. Umar was also a gifted orator, and due to his intelligence and overwhelming personality, he succeeded his father as an arbitrator of conflicts among the tribes. In addition, Umar followed the traditional profession of Quraish. He became a merchant and had several journeys to Rome and Persia, where he is said to have met various scholars and analyzed the Roman and Persian societies closely. However, as a merchant he is believed to have never been successful. Physical Appearance: Umar is said to be blessed with a strong physique. He could travel on foot for miles. From contemporary sources it appears that Umar had attained perfection in the art of wrestling. He was an athlete and a wrestler. He is said to have participated in the wrestling matches on the occasion of the annual fair of Ukaz. From firsthand accounts of his physical appearance Umar is said to be vigorous, robust and a very tall man, in markets he would tower above the people. The front part of his head was bald, always A'sara Yusran (working with two hands), both his eyes are black, with yellow skin, however, ibn Sa'ad in his book The Book of Major classes (Tabaqat alKubra) stated that he never knew that 'Umar had yellow skin, except if the people took into criterion a certain part of his life where his color changed because he always ate oil at that part of his life,Others say he has reddish-white skin. His teeth were ashnabul asnan (very white shining). He would always color his beard and take care of his hair using a type of plant. Early Muslim historians Ibn Saad and Al-Hakim have recorded a description of Umar mentioning that Abu Miriam Zir, a native of described Umar as: “I went forth with the people of Medina on a festival day, and I saw Umar walking barefoot. He was advanced in years, bald, of a tawny colour- a left handed man, tall and towering above the people”. Umar's eldest son described the physical appearance of his father as follows: He was a man of fair complexion, a ruddy tint prevailing, tall, bald and grey. another historian Salima bin al-Akwa'a said about him: “Umar was ambidexter, he could use both his hands equally well”. Ibn e Askir records on the authority of Abu Raja al-U'taridi that: “Umar was a man tall, stout, very bald, very ruddy with scanty hair on the cheeks, his moustaches large, and the ends thereof reddish”. Family: Main article: Family tree of Umar Umar married a total of nine women in his lifetime and had fourteen children, ten sons and four daughters. The details are as follow: Wife: Zaynab bint Mazh'un (at the time of Jahiliyyah [Days of Ignorance]) Son: Abdullah ibn Umar Son: Abdulrahman ibn 'Umar (The Older) Son: Abdulrahman ibn 'Umar Daughter: Hafsa bint Umar Son: Zayd ibn 'Umar Wife: Quraybah bint Abi Umayyah al-Makhzumi (divorced, married by Abdulrehman ibn Abu Bakr) Wife: Umm Hakim bint al-Harith ibn Hisham (after her husband, a former ally of 'Umar and a companion Ikrimah ibn Abi-Jahl was killed in Battle of Yarmouk, later divorced but al-Madaini says he did not divorce her) Daughter: Fatima bint 'Umar Wife: Jamilah bint Ashim ibn Thabit ibn Abi al-Aqlah (from the tribe of Aws) Son: Asim ibn Umar Wife: Atikah bint Zayd ibn Amr ibn Nifayl (cousin of Umar and former wife of Abdullah ibn Abu Bakr married 'Umar in the year twelve AH and after 'Umar was murdered, she married azZubayr ibn al-Awwam) Son: Iyaad ibn 'Umar Wife: Luhyah (a woman from Yemen (Yaman) who's marital status with 'Umar is disputed, alWaqidi said that she was Umm Walad, meaning a slave woman) Son: Abdulrahman ibn 'Umar (the youngest Abdulrehman while some say the middle Abdulrehman from Luhyah) Wife: Fukayhah (as Umm Walad) Daughter: Zaynab bint 'Umar (the smallest child of 'Umar from Fukayhah) Wife: Umm Kulthum bint Ali Son: Zayd ibn Umar Daughter: roqayya bint Umer Another son is, az-Zubayr ibn Bakkar, called Abu Shahmah, though from which wife is unknown. He resolved to defend the traditional. When his sister came to rescue her husband. Upon hearing these words. Yet still they kept on saying "you may kill us but we will not give up Islam".During Muhammad's (SAW) era: Umar's hostility to Islam: In 610 Muhammed started delivering the message of Islam. Umar was taken aback to learn this. Upon arriving at her house. Amr ibn Hishām. As a small group of Muslims migrated Umar felt worried about the future unity of the Quraish and decided to have Muhammad assassinated. out of guilt he calmed down and asked his sister to give him what she was reciting. Umar firmly believed in the unity of the Quraish and saw the new faith of Islam as a cause of division and discord among the Quraish. alongside others in Makkah. reciting the verses of the Qur'an (Surah Ta Ha). This further helped the Muslims to gain confidence in practicing Islam openly. polytheistic religion of Arabia. At this stage Umar even challenged anyone who dared to stop the Muslims from praying. as his sister and her husband had converted to Islam. Umar found his sister and brother-in-law Saeed bin Zaid (Umar's cousin). He was so struck by the beauty of the verses that he became a Muslim that day. opposed Islam and threatened to kill Muhammad. Due to the persecution at the hands of the Quraish. Umar slapped his sister so hard that she fell to the ground bleeding from her mouth. although no one dared to interfere with Umar when he was openly praying. Umar thereafter openly prayed at the Kaaba as the Quraish chiefs. According to one account. He started quarreling with his brother-in-law . He was most adamant and cruel in opposing Muhammad and very prominent in persecuting the Muslims. one year after the Migration to Abyssinia. When he saw what he had done to his sister. Umar went to inform the chief of Quraish. He then went to Muhammad with the same sword he intended to kill him with and converted in front of him and his companions. She gave him the paper on which was written the verses of the chapter Ta-Ha. reportedly watched in anger. When Umar told him that he was going to kill Muhammad. The story was recounted in Ibn Ishaq's Sīrah: On the way to murder Muhammad. He knew that Umar would attempt what he said. Amr ibn Hishām and Abu Sufyan ibn Harb. Umar. So just to divert his attention he told him to set his own house in order first. Conversion to Islam: Umar converted to Islam in 616. Following his conversion. about his new faith. . he also started quarreling with her. Muhammad ordered his followers to migrate to Abyssinia. Umar was 27 when he became Muslim. Umar met his best friend Nu'aim ibn Abdi 'Allah who had secretly embraced Islam but he did not tell Umar anything about it. Umar was the first man who resolved that Muhammad had to be murdered in order to finish Islam. he was afraid. we didn't offer prayers in Al-Haram Mosque until Umar accepted Islam. "Whoever wishes to bereave his mother." Not one of them followed him. gave great weight to what Omar said. during his calpihate. Abdullah bin Masoud said: Umar's embracing Islam was our victory. It was after this that Muslims offered prayers openly in Masjid al-Haram for the first time. Migration to Medina: In 622 due to the growing popularity of Islam in the city of Yathrib (later renamed Al-Madīnah Al-Munawwarah. or simply Medina) Muhammad ordered his followers to migrate to Medina. He performed seven circuits. The death of the Prophet was a stunning shock to Omar. Ibn Asakir narrated that Ali said: I don’t know of anyone who didn’t emigrate in secret except for Umar ibn alKhattab. the enlightened city. . because when he wanted to emigrate he strapped on his sword. And if the Prophet was really no more. Umar migrated to Medina accompanied by his cousin and brother-in-law Saeed ibn Zaid. so much so that he drew his sword and swore that he would cut off the head of the man who said the Messenger of Allah was dead. carried his arrows in his hand. orphan his children and widow his wife then let him meet me behind this valley. He was overwhelmed with grief. when he accepted Islam Quraish were compelled to let us pray in the Mosque. He could not believe it. what was going to happen to Islam and the Muslims? These dark thoughts blotted out all reason from Omar's head. Life without the Prophet was unthinkable. depended on Omar for advice. That was because the Master. Great was his love for Allah and His Apostle. and then prayed two raka‘at at the Station (of Ibrahim). but Umar is reported to have migrated openly during the day time. Muslims usually migrated at night due to fear of Quraish's resistance to that migration. his migration to Medina was our success and his reign a blessing from Allah. Abu Bakr. in his life-time. Then he approached their circle one step at a time and said.Umar’s conversion to Islam gave power to the Muslims and the faith in Mecca. he thought. put his bow over his shoulder. as people said. Not till Abu Bakr had reminded him of the clear verdict of the Quran on the point did he come to himself. and came to the Ka‘bah where the nobles of Quraysh were in the courtyard. Devotion to the Prophet: Omar stood by the side of the Prophet in all battles and expeditions. He never allowed any blood ties or friendship to stand in the way of this love. he paired off each immigrant (Muhajir) with one of the residents of the city (Ansari). Umar too was initially routed but hearing that Muhammad was still alive he went to Muhammad at the mountain of Uhud and prepared for the defenses of the hill to keep the Quraishi army down the hill. In 624 Umar participated in the first Battle between Muslims and Quraish of Mecca i. In 625 Umar’s(R. In 628 Umar participated in the Treaty of Hudaibiah and was made one of the witness over the pact. He was part of Muslim's army that went for the campaign of Tabuk under Muhammad's command and he was reported to have given half of his wealth for the preparation of this expedition. In 624 Umar participated in the first Battle between Muslims and Quraish of Mecca i. In 628 he was a part of Muslims' campaign to Khaybar. Later in the year Umar was a part of campaign against the Jewish tribe of Banu Nadir. Later in Umar's reign as caliph Muhammad ibn Muslamah would be assigned the office of chief inspector of Accountability. In the second phase of Battle when Khalid bin Waleed's Cavalry attacked Muslims at the rear changing the victory of Muslims to defeat. Later in the year Umar was a part of campaign against the Jewish tribe of Banu Nadir. In 625 he participated in the Battle of Uhud.Life in Medina: Medina became the new center of Islam and the religion spread rapidly across Arabia. rumors of Muhammad’s death were spread many Muslim were warriors routed from the battle field. they attacked and defeated the enemy.A) making them brothers in faith. rumors of Muhammad’s death were spread. When Muhammad arrived in Medina. In 630 when Muslim armies rushed for the Conquest of Mecca he was part . In 629 In 629 Muhammad sent Amr ibn al-A’as to Zaat-ul-Sallasal from where he called for reinforcement and Muhammad sent Abu Ubaidah Ibn Al Jarrah with reinforcement.A) daughter Hafsah was married to Muhammad. Battle of Badr. serving under him were Abu Bakr and Umar.e. Later in 627 he participated in the Battle of Trench and also in the Battle of Banu Qurayza. joining Muhammad ibn Maslamah with Umar(R. Later in 630 he was part of Battle of Hunayn and Siege of Ta'if. Battle of Badr. In 625 Umar’s daughter Hafsah was married to Muhammad. they attacked and defeated the enemy. Umar’s battle: Muslims remained in peace in Medina for approximately a year before the Quraish raised an army to attack them.In 625 he participated in the Battle of Uhad. In 628 he was a part of Muslims' campaign to Khaybar. He also participated in a farewell Hajj of Muhammad in 631. Umar too was initially routed but hearing that Muhammad was still alive he went to Muhammad at the mountain of Uhud and prepared for the defenses of the hill to keep the Quraishi army down the hill.e. In the second phase of Battle when Khalid ibn Walid's Cavalry attacked Muslims at the rear changing the victory of Muslims to defeat. Later in 627 he participated in the Battle of the Trench and also in the Battle of Banu Qurayza. In 629 Muhammad sent Amr ibn al-A’as to Zaat-ul-Sallasal from where he called for reinforcement and Muhammad sent Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah with reinforcement. In 630 when Muslim armies rushed for the Conquest of Mecca he was part of that army. serving under him were Abu Bakr and Umar. Muslims remained in peace in Medina for approximately a year before the Quraish raised an army to attack them. Many Muslim were warriors routed from the battle field. In 628 Umar participated in the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and was made one of the witness over the pact. he dies or is killed. the devoted disciple. and whoever worshipped God. will you turn back on your heel? Hearing this from Abu Bakr. Umar then fell down on his knees in great sense of sorrow and acceptance of the reality. He was part of Muslim's army that went for the campaign of Tabuk under Muhammad's command and he was reported to have given half of his wealth for the preparation of this expedition. I swear by Allah Who has sent you with the Truth. At this point Abu Bakr is reported to have come out to the Muslim community and gave his famous speech which included: Whoever worshipped Muhammad. then. the most senior disciple of Muhammad. that you are right in this world and in the hereafter. According to the Qur'an. therefore.' We then went out in two groups. When the polytheists of Quraish saw us. Sunni Muslims say that this denial of Muhammad's death was occasioned by his deep love for him.e. died or killed. messengers (the like of whom) have passed away before him.' I. let them know that Muhammad is dead. I asked Mohammad: 'Aren't we on the right path here and Hereafter?' He answered: 'Of course you are! I swear by Allah in Whose Hand my soul is.of that army. We headed for the Masjid Al Haram in broad daylight. that we will leave our concealment and proclaim our noble cause publicly. If. Abū Bakr then recited these verses from the Qur'an: Muhammad is but a messenger. Umar was full of grief upon hearing the news of demise of Muhammad(SAW). Umar. their faces went pale and got incredibly depressed and resentful. It is said that Umar promised to strike the head of any man who would say that Muhammad died. "Muhammad is but a messenger. Title Al-Farooq: Mujahid. On that very occasion. asked Mohammad 'Why we then had to conduct clandestine activism. he replied: After I had embraced Islam. . Later in 630 he was part of Battle of Hunayn and Siege of Teife. i. He also participated in a farewell Hajj of Muhammad in 631. on the authority of Ibn Abbas related that he had asked 'Umar bin Al-Khattab why he had been given the epithet of Al-Farooq (he who distinguishes truth from falsehood). messengers have passed away before". Hamzah leading one and I the other. could not accept the reality that the "Messenger of God" has died. let them know that God is alive and never dies. Mohammad attached to me the epithet of Al-Farooq Death of Muhammad (SAW): Muhammad died on 8 June 632. Umar resolved the divisions by placing his hand on that of Abu Bakr as a unity candidate for those gathered in the Saqifah. and under these circumstances Ali was forced to capitulate. Umar is reported to have warned those in the House that unless Ali succumbed to Abu Bakr. Sa'd Ibn Abadah. brilliantly divided the Ansar into their old warring factions of Aws and Khazraj tribes. . However Umar was undeterred in his belief the caliphate should be under the control of the Muhajirs. fully accepted by Shia scholars. However. with its inhabitants ablaze. according to the main Sunni sources such as Sahih Al Bukhari reports. It has been reported in main early history sources such as history of Al Tabari that after Ali's refusal to pay homage. Though they Khazraj were in disagreement. Umar found out about this meeting at Shafiqah Bani Saadah. he would set the House on fire. is generally rejected by Sunni scholars who in view of other reports in their literature believe that Ali gave oath of alliance to Abu Bakr without any grievance. and its significance to world history is hard to overestimate. the Ansar (helpers). and taking with him two other Muhajirs. Abu Bakr sent Umar with an armed contingent to Fatimah’s house where Ali and his supporters are said to have gathered. This version of events.Foundation of the Caliphate: Umar's political genius first manifested as the architect of the caliphate after Muhammad died in 8 June 632. The Khazraj tribe is said to have posed no significant threat as there were sufficient men of war from the Medinan tribes such as the Banu Aws to immediately organize them into a military bodyguard for Abu Bakr. The creation of the Islamic caliphate would be one of Umar's most enduring legacies. most others gathered at the Saqifah followed suit with the exception of the Khazraj tribe and their leader. Ali was reluctant to swear allegiance to Abu Bakr after the attack on his house but gave his allegiance six months later after the death of his wife Fatimah. According to various Twelver shia sources and some western scholars. presumably to head off the Ansar's plans for political domination. whose tribe was ostracized. Umar and Abu Bakr are also said to have used force to secure the allegiance from Ali and his party. Umar after strained negotiations lasting up to one or two days. proceeded to the meeting. organised a meeting on the outskirts of the city.While the funeral of Muhammad was being arranged a group of Muhammad's followers who were natives of Medina. Umar and Abu Bakr had in effect mounted a political coup against Ali at the Saqifah According to one version of narrations in primary sources. effectively locking out those companions known as (The Emigrants) including Umar. Arriving at the meeting Umar was faced with a unified community of tribes from the Ansar who refused to accept the leadership of the Muhajirs. Abu Bakr and Abu Ubaidah Ibn Al Jarrah. after the death of 300 memorizers of Quran in Battle of Yamamah. Umar along with Khalid ibn Walid. In his will he instructed Umar . Umar was reportedly misguided by Malik's brother that Malik was a Muslim and Khalid killed him because he wanted to marry his wife Layla bint al-Minhal. Abu Bakr decided to make Umar. Umar. Though at the beginning due to the apprehensive situation in Arabia Umar was opposing the military operations against the rebel tribes. Appointment as a Caliph: Due to his strict and autocratic nature. I will tell him that I have appointed the best man among your men. It was Umar who advised Abu Bakr to compile Quran in the form of a book. Succession of Umar was thus not as troublesome as any of the others. during which he remained occupied with Ridda wars. Umar was not a very popular figure among the notables of Madinah and members of Majlis Al Shura. his successor. Khalid ibn Walid by late 632 had successfully united Arabia after consecutive victories against rebels. justice and care for poor and underprivileged people. political astuteness. but later he seemed to agree with Abu Bakr's warlike strategies to crush rebellion. Abu Bakr before his death called Uthman to write his will in which he declared Umar his successor. Abu Bakr appointed Umar as his successor prior to his death in 634. If I will be asked by the God to whom I have appointed my successor. it was to enjoy their support in case of any possible foreign invasion by Romans or Persian. accordingly succession of Umar was initially discouraged by high ranking companions of Abu Bakr. impartiality. a rebel chief who was a state criminal. Prior to Battle of Yamamah. who had killed Malik ibn Nuwayrah. Abu Bakr is reported to have said to the high-ranking advisers: His (Umar's) strictness was there because of my softness when the weight of Caliphate will be over his shoulders he will remain no longer strict. While Abu Bakr refused to accept Umar's opinion and Umar continued insisting for Khalid's disposal even after Khalid's conquest of Iraq. He was confirmed in the office thereafter. Umar was one of his chief advisers and secretary.Caliph Abu Bakr's era: During Abu Bakr's reign as caliph. intelligence. probably was the architect and main strategist behind the collapse of rebellion in Arabia. still was well known for his extraordinary will power. Later during his own reign. Abu Bakr was fully aware of Umar's power and ability to succeed him. Umar pressured Abu Bakr to call back Khalid. His was perhaps one of the smoothest transitions to power from one authority to another in the Muslim lands. a renowned beauty in Arabia. Umar would mostly adopt the policy of avoiding wars and consolidating his power in the conquered land rather than expanding his empire through continuous warfare. Nevertheless. to continue the conquests on Iraq and Syrian fronts. . Islam is now supreme in Arabia. He successfully waged the apostasy wars. He has the satisfaction that he has successfully piloted the ship of the Muslim state to safety after negotiating the stormy sea.. Next time he addressed the people as: I will be harsh and stern against the aggressor. In the performance of my duties.. follow me. Reign as Caliph: On 22 August Caliph Abu Bakr died. know ye brethren that you will feel a change in me. but I will be a pillar of strength for the weak. For those who practice tyranny and deprive others of their rights. Abu Bakr's decision would prove to be crucial in the strengthening of the nascent Islamic empire. I will not calm down until I will put one cheek of a tyrant on the ground and the other under my feet. the responsibility for leading the Muslims has come to vest in me. I will seek guidance from the Holy Book.. the mantle of Caliphate has fallen on my shoulders. Umar was a gifted orator. But now that in national interest. If I follow the right path. After Abu Bakr. and for the poor and weak. they say that he (Umar) has become the Caliph now. After the assumption of office as the Caliph. I swear it before God that I never coveted this office.. Umar's addresses greatly moved the people. The same day Umar assumed the office of Caliphate. it has come to my notice that the people are afraid of me. he was rather more feared than loved. and will make an earnest effort to discharge the onerous duties of the office to the best of my capacity in accordance with the injunctions of Islam. God knows how hard he will be. I wished that it would have devolved on some other person more worthy than me. I will be most soft and tender. correct me so that we are not led astray. and thanks to him. and he would use his ability to get a soft corner in the hearts of people. If I deviate from the right path. I will be harsh and stern.. The first challenge for Umar was to win over his subjects and members of Majlis Al Shura. Umar addressed the Muslims in his Inaugural address as: O ye faithful! Abu Bakr is no more amongst us.. Initial challenges: Even though almost all of the Muslims had given their pledge of loyalty to Umar. Whoever has said this is not wrong in his assessment. and will follow the examples set by the Holy Prophet and Abu Bakr.. Allah has examined me from you and you from me. but for those who follow the law. I assure you that I will not run away from my post. In this task I seek your assistance. I will put my cheek on the ground... On Friday prayers Umar addressed the people as follow: Brethren. there were about 100 districts in the empire. This made Umar quite a popular among the bedouin tribes. usually appointed by Umar himself. the Treasury Officer. Katib-ud-Diwan. The provinces were administered by the provincial governors or Wali. over which he laid foundation of his rule: By God. who was very fastidious in it. but occasionally they were also appointed by the provincial governor. Sahib-Bait-ul-Mal. Sahib-ul-Kharaj.There could be no better definition of the democracy and justice. Every appointment was made in writing. 5. the Chief Seceratary. Sahib-ul-Ahdath. 4. until I have vindicated for him his rights. in order to improve his reputation and relation with Banu Hashim. 6. Provinces were further divided into districts. continued its status as a state property. Each district or main city was under the charge of a junior governor or Wali. he that is strongest I will treat as the weakest. Umar's stress was on the wellbeing of poor and underprivileged people. . than the historic words of Umar. the Military Secretary. the tribe of Ali. that had accepted the suzerainty of the Caliphate. the Revenue Collector. though the Governor (Wali) was in most cases the Commander-in-chief of the army quartered in the province. At the time of appointment an instrument of instructions was issued with a view to regulating the conduct of Governors. Political and civil administration: The government of Umar was more or less a unitary government. and their immediate emancipation. The selection of which was made personally by Umar. thousands of prisoners from rebel and apostate tribes were taken away as slaves during the expeditions. where the sovereign political authority was the Caliph. In addition to this Umar. 3. Katib. 2. delivered to him his disputed estates in Khayber. Qadi. Umar ordered the general amnesty for the prisoners. Though he followed Abu Bakr's decision over the dispute of land of Fidak. Umar took a bold decision of retrieving Khalid Ibn Waleed from supreme command on Roman front. Other officers at the provincial level were: 1. In some districts there were separate military officers. he that is weakest among you shall be in my eye the strongest. In Ridda wars. until he complies with the law. the Governor was required to assemble the people in the main mosque. The empire of Umar was divided into provinces and some autonomous territories like in some regions Azerbaijan and Armenia. With necessary public support with him. the Chief judge. the Police Chief. On assuming office. and read the instrument of instructions before them. the people were soundly moved by Umar's speeches and his popularity grew rapidly and continuously over the period of his reign. 5. Basra and Kufa. Egypt was divided into two provinces. He was the first to discipline the people when they became disordered. Mecca and Medina. In the upper reaches of the Tigris and the Euphrates. Umar was a pioneer in some affairs: 1. 3. Syria was a province. And do not behave as if you were superior to them. . Umar made it a point to pay high salaries to the staff. investigate the charge and take action. He was the first to appoint police forces to keep civil order. Do not praise them unduly. Iraq was divided into two provinces. I have not appointed you as commanders and tyrants over the people.Umar's general instructions to his officers were: "Remember. 1. 2. This department acted as Administrative courts. In important cases Muhammad ibn Maslamah was deputed by Umar to proceed to the spot. He also kept a record system that had the messages he sent to Governors and heads of states. I have sent you as leaders instead. during which people were free to present any complaint against them. 7. Umar was the first to introduce the public ministry system. The Department was under the charge of Muhammad Ibn Maslimah. Umar was known for this intelligence service through which he made his officials accountable This service was also said to have inspired fear in his subjects. 2. The principal officers were required to travel to Mecca on the occasion of the Hajj. On occasions the officers against whom complaints were received were summoned to Medina. Persia was divided into three provinces. Umar divided Palestine in two provinces Aylya and Ramlah. 4. for that is tyranny over them. Jazira was a province. Under Umar the empire was divided into the following provinces. Provincial governor received as much as five to seven thousand dirham annually besides their shares of the spoils of war (if they were also the commander in chief of the army of their sector). Azarbaijan and Fars. Khorasan. Give the Muslims their rights and do not beat them lest they become abused. In order to minimize the chances of corruption. where the legal proceedings were personally led by Umar. lest the more powerful of them eat up the weaker ones. lest they fall into the error of conceit. 3." Various other strict codes of conduct were to be obeyed by the governors and state officials. 6. Umar was first to established a special department for the investigation of complaints against the officers of the State. and charged in Umar's administrative court. so that the people may follow your example. Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt. Sometimes an Inquiry Commission was constituted to investigate the charge. Do not keep your doors shut in their faces. one of Umar's most trusted men. where the records of officials and soldiers were kept. Arabia was divided into two provinces. In 638. Fezzan. a fianancial institutions and started annual allowance for the Muslims. he decreed that the Islamic Calendar should be counted from the year of the Hijra of Muhammad from Mecca to Madinah.Muslims to reside in the Hejaz for longer than three days. Azerbaijan. the Islamic jurisprudence. Persia. According to one estimate more than 4050 cities were captured during these military conquest. Umar also forbade non. The military conquest were partially terminated between 638–639 during the years of great famine and plague in Arabia and Levant respectively. his most successful general due to his ever growing fame and influence. Eastern Anatolia. The Islamic empire grew at an unprecedented rate. At his death in November 644.Reforms: Umar is regarded as one of the greatest political geniuses in history. During his rule. almost whole of Sassanid Persian Empire including Bactria. . rather than pursuing conquests.Prior to his death in 644. after the conquest of Syria. He is regarded by Sunni Muslims to be one of the greatest Faqih. Egypt. He undertook many administrative reforms and closely oversaw public policy. He established an advanced administration for the newly conquered lands. he continued to live much as he had when Muslims were poor and persecuted. he also began to build the political structure that would hold together the vast empire that was being built. While under his leadership. In 638. As a leader. and ordered a census of all the Muslim territories. He was first to establish army as a state department. He was quoted as doing this because he wanted the people to know that victory came from God. Umar as a Jurist started the process of codifying Islamic Law. 'Umar was known for his simple. Umar had ceased all military expeditions apparently to consolidate his rule in Egypt and newly conquered Sassanid Empire (642–644). Umar also ordered the expulsion of the Christians and Jewish communities of Najran and Khaybar allowing them to reside in Syria or Iraq. austere lifestyle. A year later he also started allowance for the poor. Nevertheless under Umar. Military expansion: It is widely believed that Umar stressed more on consolidating his power and political influence in the conquered land. Later however Umar regretted over his decision. his fourth year as caliph and the seventeenth year 17 since the Hijra. the empire was expanding at an unprecedented rate. not the general. Cyrenaica. Rather than adopt the pomp and display affected by the rulers of the time. In 641. the garrison cities (amsar) of Basra and Kufa were founded or expanded. Umar was founder ofFiqh. he extended and renovated the Masjid Al Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca and the Al Masjid Al Nabwi (Mosque of the Prophet) in Medina. including several new ministries and bureaucracies. In 639. He issued orders that these Christians and Jews should be treated well and allotted them the equivalent land in their new settlements. During his reign Levant. domain of his rule extended from present day Libya in west to Indus River in east and Oxus River in north. Umar dismissed Khalid. Caucasus and Makran were annexed to Islamic Empire. Armenia. he established Bayt al Mal. Tripolitania. underprivileged and old nonMuslim citizens of the empire. governor of Syria. Umar personally supervised the rehabilitation of the displaced people. many districts in Syria and Palestine were devastated by plague. Umar tried to persuade Abu Ubaidah to come with him to Madinah but he denied to leave his troops in that critical situation. which according to one estimate had attendance of more than hundred thousand people. which also cost the life of 25. the governor of Syria and supreme commander of Rashidun Army. which in turn saved millions from starvation. Later. The great plague: While famine was ending in Arabia. A state of emergency was declared in Madinah and Arabia. Palestine and Iraq for aid. Bedouin people began to die because of hunger and epidemic disease. The timely aid of Umar's governors saved the lives of thousands of people throughout Arabia. and Umar wrote to the provincial governors of Syria. Palestine and Syria to take the supply caravans to the desert settlements deeper into Arabia. Arabia received precipitation and as soon as the famine ended. He sent a historic letter to Umar saying I am sending you the Caravans whose one end will be here at Syria and the other will be at Madinah. Hundreds of thousands of people from all over Arabia gathered at Madinah where food was rationed.The great famine: In the year 638 Arabia fell into severe drought followed by a famine. as most of the veteran commanders and governors had died of plague. Abu Ubaidah paid a personal visit to Madinah and acted as an officer of Disaster Management Cell. Umar dispatched his men to the routes of Iraq.000 Muslims in Syria. For internally displaced people. which was headed personally by Umar. By early 639 conditions begun to improve. While Umar was on his way to visit Syria. Abu Ubaidah died in 639 due to plague. he was received by Abu Ubaidah Ibn al Jarrah. . Soon the reserves of food at Madinah began to decline. They were given adequate amounts of rations and were exempted from payment of zakat for that year and the next year. who informed him about plague and its intensity and he was suggest to go back to Madinah. Umar hosted a dinner every night at Madinah. The first governor to respond was Abu Ubaidah Ibn al Jarrah. at Elat. After the plague had weakened in late 639 Umar visited Syria for political and administrative re-organization. Once an adequate supply of rations reached Madinah. were institutionalized during Umar's reign as Caliph.Taraweeh: Taraweeh. and suggested to them to join together in performing the prayers. he saw different groups of people performing prayers. Marriage to Ali bin Abu Talib's daughter Umm Kulthum It is accepted by Sunni sources that Umar bin Khattab married Ali bin Abu Talib's daughter Umm Kulthum. "Every lineage and means will be severed on the Day of Judgment except my lineage and my means. The Shia do not give credence to the institutionalization of this prayer during Umar's caliphate. Once when visiting the mosque. which Ali accepted. the night prayers during Ramadan. A majority of Sunni Muslims have followed the same practice since then. In Sunni sources it is mentioned that Umar asked for her hand because of a hadith he heard from Muhammad. therefore he requested for Ali's daughter. But this fact is rejected by all Shia'a scholars." Umar wanted to be closer to Muhammad. . I will take his heart out". He was Persian Commander in Chief and was captured and brought to Umar at Madinah where to save his life he apparently converted to Islam. Umar wrote to Mughirah and inquired about the tax. a former Jewish Rabbi. the Christian Arab from Iraq. Piruzan. the Ramy Al Jamarat (stoning of the Devil). Seeing them. In a sullen mood. " Verily I will make such a mill for you. There were Persian children slaves in Madina. Firoz is quoted saying: You have been enslaved at such a tender age. before the Fajar prayers (the morning prayers before the dawn) Abu Lulu would enter Al Masjid al Nabwi. It was Abu Lulu who was assigned the mission of assassinating Umar. One of Umar's advisors. In October 644 Umar went for Hajj in Mecca. He will never come here again. 4. at zenith of his power. His assassination was carried out by Persians. Jabir bin Mutaam is reported to have said: We saw a man standing at the top of the hill and crying 'Verily that is the last Hajj of Umar. Amongst the conspirators was: 1. who had converted to Islam. Ka'ab Al Ahbar. During one of rituals of Hajj. Mughirah's reply was satisfactory. that whole world would remember it ". . in response to the Muslim conquest of Persia. It is related that when Umar stood at Mount Arafat he heard a voice saying: "O Caliph.The assassination was planned several months earlier. Umar then is reported to have asked Abu Lulu: I heard that you make windmills. and the massive crowd of the congregation was used by the conspirators as a veil to hide themselves. 3. Umar was assassinated. Abu Lulu brought a conjectural complaint to Umar about the high tax charged from him by his master Mughirah. the main mosque of Madinah where Umar led the prayers and would attack Umar during the prayers. but Umar held that the tax charged from Abu Lulu was reasonable. who was also a foster brother of Saad Bin Abi Waqas. former governors of Busra. Jafinah. a voice was heard that Umar will not attend the Hajj ever again. Firoz said. make one for me as well.Assassination: In 644. popularly known as Abu Lulu. and then flee or mix with the congregation at mosque. the assassins started the hoopla of Umar's possible death that year. he was slave of Mughira Ibn Shu'ba the then governor of Busra. 2. never again will you stand on the Mount of Arafat". According to the plan. A companion of Umar. the alleged mastermind of the plot. owning the to his daily income. This Umar sees eaten my heart. Hormuzan. some one threw a stone on Umar that wounded his head. Get guidance from the Holy Quran and Sunnah. With regard to the people. . Be a pillar of strength for those who are weak and oppressed. Do not tax them beyond their capacity. Ensure that they pay the Jizya without undue inconvenience. Fear God. be good to them. and in the matter of Allah do not be afraid of the people. Umar died of the wounds three days later on Sunday.On 3 November 644. Those out of them who are good. and in all that you do keep His pleasure in view. In the distribution of booty and other matters be above nepotism. They should be taxed only on their surplus wealth. Be good to the people of the conquered lands. As you are the leader of the Muslims. They contribute to our revenues. In the matter of people fear God. make them pay for their wrong-doings. Umar is reported to have left the following testament: Be kind and generous to the Muhajireen and the Ansaar. At last he was captured but committed suicide using the same dagger. The Satan is at large. Umar was left profusely bleeding while Abu Lulu tried to flee. but people from all sides rushed to capture him. Freely consult the wise men around you. and seek light from God. Do not rest content until you have brought the miscreants to book. Those who are strong but do wrong. 7 November 644 (26th Dhū al-HḤijja 23 ) . Be gracious to the Bedouis as they are the backbone of the Arab nation. Ensure the safety of their person and property. I instruct you to be good to the Dhimmis for they are your responsibility. Apply your own mind in difficult cases. it may tempt you. Take strong steps to guard the frontiers. May God bless you. they are the target of the anger and distress of our enemies. stabbing him six times in the belly and last on the navel. They are the outer line of our defense. six or nine of whom later died. I enjoin upon you to administer justice with an even hand. that proved fatal. See that all the legitimate requirements of the people are met. Be hard against those who violate the law. Lead life as a model Muslim. Abu Lulu attacked Umar while he was leading the morning prayers. In the matter of administration do not prefer the rich to the poor. those who are bad overlook their lapses. he was buried next to Al Masjid Al Nabwi alongside Muhammad and Caliph Abu Bakr by the permission of Aisha. Treat all the people as equal. Let there be no show or ostentation about you. Let no consideration of relationship or selfish interest weigh with you. Be simple in your living and your habits. As per Umar's will. Be concerned for their welfare. in his efforts to escape he is reported to have wounded twelve other people. justify your leadership by being the best among them all. Rise above all temptations and perform your duties in accordance with the injunctions of Islam. Show them no mercy. See that the frontiers of our domains are not violated. Jafina and Abu Lulu. Zubair Ibn Al Awwam Their task was to choose a caliph from amongst them. however it has been reported that he said that if Abu Ubaidah Ibn al Jarrah. were alive he would have appointed one of them his successor. Abdulrehman Ibn e Abubakar and Abdur Rehman Ibn Auf revealed that they saw the dagger used by Abu Lulu. on 11 November Uthman succeded him as the Caliph. When Umar was informed about the incident. he saw Hormuzan. He killed Hormuzan. Umar's younger son Ubaidullah Ibn Umar sought to kill all the Persians in Madinah. Abdur Rehman Ibn Auf 2. while they were suspiciously discussing some thing. After the mystery of assassination got uncovered by the two of the most notable governmental figures. reported Abdur Rahman bin Awf. the freed Persian slave. While the historic meeting for selection of caliph was preceding. Until the appointment of the next caliph Umar appointed a notable Sahabi. the dagger fell. Ali Ibn e Abi Talib 6. and daughter of Umar's assassin Abu Lulu. and he assaulted Ubaidullah ibn Umar and again the companions intervened. Saad Bin Abi Waqas 3. it was the same two sided dagger used in the assissination. the tribunal decided to give blood money to the victims and released Umar's son Ubaidullah on the ground that after the tragic incident of Umar's assassination people will be further infuriated by the execution of his son the very next day. 1. son of late caliph Abu Bakr also confirmed that few days before Umar's assassination. he once saw this dagger with Hurmazan. it seemed clear that the assassination was planned by the Persians residing in Medina. Umar appointed a band of fifty armed soldiers to protect the house where the meeting was proceeding. Amr Ibn Al-Aas is said to have intercepted him and convinced him to hand over his sword. bewildered by his presence.Aftermaths: On his death bed Umar vacillated to appoint his successor. After prolonged negotiations. The murder of Jafinah enraged Saad Bin Abi Waqas. Uthman Ibn e Affan 5. his foster brother. Ubaidullah was intercepted by the people of Madinah withholding him from the massacre. Jafinah. the assassin of Umar. who is believed to have been a Muslim. he ordered that Ubaidullah should be imprisoned and the next Caliph should decide his fate. . Talha Ibn Ubaidullah 4. Umar died on 7 November 644. A night before Umar's assassination. Abudulrehman ibn Abu Bakr. Infuriated by this. Umar finally appointed a committee of six persons comprising. Sohaib e Roomi(Suhayb the Roman) as a caretaker Caliph. Khalid Bin Waleed . it was Umar's brilliance that Abu Bakr was elected Caliph.Legacy: Umar is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Islamic history. His meticulous was evident from his appointment of governors and judges that never let him lose his grip on the government. mostly among the poor and underprivileged people. however after his death. he continued to live much as he had when Muslims were poor and persecuted. Umar was very painstaking in every matter. Rather than adopt the pomp and display affected by the rulers of the time. Umar remained politically stagnant during Prophet Mohammad's era. Political legacy: Umar is considered as a political genius. He is best known to built up an efficient administrative structure of the empire. due to his immense popularity and growing influence that he saw menace to his authority. austere lifestyle. paving the way for the succession of Abu Bakr. He opposed the construction of present day Suez Canal. despite of massive initial confrontations at Saqifah. Twelve hundred years later Great Britain opposed the construction of the canal for the same reason as it then posed threat to its colonies in Indian Subcontinent. One of the reason of the compactness of his political rule in the conquered lands is reputed to his policy of tolerance to their religious believes and imposition of far lower taxes on them as compared to Sassanid Persian Empire and Byzanthine Empire. Umar win over the hearts of Baudouin tribes by emancipating all their prisoners and slaves taken during Ridda Wars. before the conquest of Persian empire. his excellent oratory skills helped him to heightened his popularity graph. Their local administration was kept un-touched and several of the former Byzantine and Persian official were retained on their services under Umar's governors. as an architect of Islamic Empire he is regarded as 52nd most influential figure in history. Umar is reported to have wished an official tour across his domain to personally examine the condition of his subjects. during Abu Bakr's era. that held together his vast realm. He never appointed governors for more than two years. He proved himself as an excellent manager during the year of the great Famine when his dynamic abilities saved millions from starvation. partly a reason for his strong grip on his bureaucracy. 'Umar was known for his simple. Umar is reported to have said: . In 641. He dismissed his most successful general Khalid Ibn e Waleed. Rather than tenacious conquest he stressed more on consolidating his rule in the conquered land. Umar successfully broke the alliance of the tribes of Madinah who claim Caliphate to be their right. He organized an effective network of intelligence. After succeeding Abu Bakr as caliph. As a leader. His judicial reforms were fairly modern and advance in nature when compared to contemporary systems of his era. a fact that saved Byzantine Wars from complete disappearance. as it posed threat to the security of Madinah. for they might get influence in their county. he actively participated as his secretory and main adviser. He was in a true sense the architect of the Islamic Empire. He would walk the streets of Medina with a whip in his hand. he is said to be one of the key figures in the collapse of the Arabian rebellion. One of his greatest strategic marvels was his brilliant fission of Persio-Roman alliance in 636. who presumably wanted a coordinated attack along with the Persians. His vision was to ensure that every one in his kingdom should sleep on a full stomach. he refused to chop off the hands of the thieves because he felt he had fallen short of his responsibility to provide meaningful employment to all his subjects. and though not distinguished as a swordsman. the tradition that later be followed by some of the Abbasids Caliphs and even Mughal rulers of Indian subcontinent. For example. Umar will be responsible for dereliction of duty—(Umar) He also knew that just having a vision is not enough unless it is supported by effective strategies. It should be noted that at the time. when Emperor Heraclius and Emperor Yazdegerd III allied against their common enemy Umar. He is famous for covert night tour of the city to know the secret life of his domain. As second caliph of Islam." Military legacy: It has been reported that Umar was a champion wrestler of his time. and it is said that Umar's whip was feared more than the sword of another man. I wish to visit Syria next year. the greatest triumph of Abu Bakr. Persia was not yet conquered (conquest of Persia begun in 642). Umar did this by sending reinforcements to the Roman front with instructions that they should appear in the .If I would live few more years. he would later attain prominence as a master strategist. He didn’t only have a vision. then next Iraq and then the next year Egypt to personally check the conditions of the subjects and inquire whether my mandate is followed or not. If a dog dies hungry on the banks of the River Euphrates. he used to walk through the streets almost every night to see if there is any one needy or ill. Umar made this statement. Umar fully availed the opportunity and successfully tackled the minefield by straining the Byzantines to jump in the battle. to ensure that nobody sleeps hungry in his empire. Along with Khalid. he truly transformed his vision into actions. Social justice and accountability Saeed M Mohtsham cites from Caliph Umar's rule in his research paper Vision and Visionary Leadership – An Islamic Perspective: "He used to monitor very closely the public policy and had kept the needs of the public central to his leadership approach. This was contrary to the orders of Empreror Heraclius. He was lucky in that the Persian Emperor Yazdegerd III couldn't synchronize with Heraclius as planned. As a ruler of a vast kingdom. To further pressurize the Christian Arab armies. On the other hand Yazdegerd III of Persia was engaged in negotiations that further gave Umar time to transfer his troops from Syria to Iraq. after Battle of Nahavand Umar launched a whole scale invasion of Sassanid Persian Empire. After years of non-offensive policy according to which Umar wished the Zagros Mountains to be the frontiers between Muslims and Persians. and emperor Yazdegerd III fled to Central Asia. Under this unprecedented press-gang. Christian Arabs retreated from Emesa before Muslims reinforcement could reach their. Umar launched the invasion by attacking the very heart of Persia aiming to isolate Azerbaijan and eastern Persia. Umar himself led a reinforcement from Madinah and marched towards Emesa. His strategic dimensions were the prime reason of Muslim victory at 2nd Battle of Emesa in 638. . In the final secession Sistan and Kirman and captured thus isolating the stronghold of Persian. making an unexpected flanking movement and laid siege to Emesa (Homs). aided by Byzantine Emperor. giving the impression of a continuous stream of reinforcements that finally lured the Byzantines to an untimely battle. These troops proved decisive in the Battle of Qadisiyyah. commander of Muslim forces in Iraq. Umar instructed Saad ibn Abi Waqqas. Where the pro-Byzantine Christian Arabs of Jazira. The final expedition was launched against Khurasan where after Battle of Oxus river Persian empire ceased to exist. He founded the city of Cairo. Umar's brilliance was behind this Muslim victory and was achieved without firing a single shot. the Khurasan. The invasion was a series of well coordinated multi-prong attacks that was based on the principle of isolating and then destroying the target. Umar's orders to invade the very homeland of the Christian Arab forces besieging Emesa. one after the other. This incursion from Byzantines however resulted in Muslim annex Mesopotamia and parts of Byzantine Armenia. conquered 36. the Jazirah. Nonetheless the greatest triumph of Umar remained Conquest of Persian empire.000 cities or castles. Both the battles thus fought proved decisive and are noted as two of the most decisive battles in history. and built 1400 mosques. to sent reinforcement to Emesa. It was immediately followed by simultaneous attacks on Azerbaijan and Fars.form of small bands. A three prong attack against Jazirah was launched from Iraq. and the second of the rightly-guided Caliphs. his Imamate (period of rule) was a blessing. some Twelver scholars reject these accounts of physical abuse as a "myth". his migration was a victory. I have seen when we were unable to pray at the Kaabah until Umar submitted. and in the most distant scenes . The rigid hand which he kept upon his most popular generals in the midst of their armies. These sources report that the event caused her to miscarry her child and eventually led to her death soon after. inflexible integrity. despite their beliefs that they are inferior to Ali. took buckets on his two shoulders. like the Zaidiyyah.Religious legacy: Sunni views: Sunnis Muslims view him as the Second Rashidun and know him as Farooq the great. Shia views: Umar is viewed very negatively in Twelver Shi'a literature and is often regarded as a traitor to Muhammad. Other Shia sects. a man they title Farooq. According to the majority of Twelver scholars. a usurper of Ali's rights. by some. Fatimah. Sunni remember Umar as a Strong Muslim of a sound and just disposition in matters of the religion of Allah. He patched his clothes with skin. On his ring is written the words "Enough is Death as a reminder to you O' 'Umar". following Zaid ibn Ali. but rather sought to advance the interests of the Muslim community. a murderer. wife of Ali. —Abd Allah ibn Mas'ud. However. and rigid justice. always riding his donkey without the saddle. accept Umar and Abu Bakr as legitimate caliphs. He did not seek advancement for his own family. He was. meaning "leader. more than any one else. aiding Abu Beker with his counsels during his brief caliphate. confirming and carrying out the inspirations of the prophet. and establishing wise regulations for the strict administration of the law throughout the rapidly-extending bounds of the Moslem conquests. was physically abused by him. and. Western views: The whole history of Omar shows him to have been a man of great powers of mind. rarely laughing and never joking with anyone. when he submitted to Islam. he fought them (the pagans) until they left us alone and we prayed. Abd Allah ibn Mas'ud: Umar's submission to Islam was a conquest. Some Twelver Shi'a writers have accused him of killing Muhammad's daughter Fatimah. jurist and statesman". The general Sunni sentiment for Umar is summarized by one of Muhammad's companions. the founder of the Islam empire. (see Umar at Fatimah's house). the ummah. In his weekly distributions of the surplus money of his treasury he proportioned them to the wants. 'of Persian luxury. 'has bestowed the good things of this world to relieve our necessities. In the simplicity of his habits. He endeavored incessantly to impress the merit and policy of the same in his letters to his generals. .' It was his strong conviction of the truth of this policy which made him so severe in punishing all ostentatious style and luxurious indulgence in his officers. Some of his ordinances do credit to his heart as well as his head. not to reward our virtues: those will be rewarded in another world. He forbade that any female captive who had borne a child should be sold as a slave. and Allah will continue you victorious. Keep to the simple habits of your country.' said he. gave signal evidence of his extraordinary capacity to rule. he emulated the example of the prophet and Abu Beker.of their triumphs. and he will reverse your fortunes. depart from them. 'Beware. 'God. not the merits of the applicants. both in food and raiment. and his contempt for all pomp and luxury.' he would say. Ushr. Guards were also appointed for the Bait-ul Mal. He reorganised the entire system on a very sound and just basis. the special land tax equal to one tenth of the produce was taken from large holdings. During the time of Hadrat Abu Bakr (Raziallah Anho). Following were the main sources of revenue: (i) Jizya (Indemnity or Defense Tax) (ii) Zakat (Poor Tax) (iii) Khiraj (Land Tax) (iv) 'Ushr (Special land Tax) (v) Booty (Income from the conquered places) (vi) Tax on non-Muslim merchants or traders (because they did pay Zakat). The reason was obvious they did not pay Zakat while Muslim merchants had to pay Zakat. a house was purchased for the purpose but there were no savings beside one Dirham when he passed away. From the rest of the fund. In Medina there was the central Treasury and regular accounts were kept. There were Treasury officers in each province. expenditure on general . During the caliphate of Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) the Bait-ul Mal was immensely enlarged.Departments: Bayt ul Maal Military Department Tax Deptartments Education Department Police Deparmtment Financial Department The Bait-ul Maal (Public Treasury) and Revenue Administration: A Public Treasury (Bait-ul-Maal) was for the first time established by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) in the form of a common fund for the benefit of the general public. The officer in charge of the Public Treasury (Bait-ul Mal) was known as "Sahib-i-Bait-ul-Ma1". The Zakat fund was kept in special account books and was spent in accordance with the Islamic laws as given in the Holy Qur'an. The tax on non-Muslim traders was introduced by Hadrat’ Umar (Raziallah Anho) for the first time. For example." Once he saw a fat camel being sold in the market. An ordinary soldier who fought during the time of Hadrat 'U mar (Raziallah Anho) received 500 to 600 dirhams. priority of conversion to Islam and sacrifices for its cause. The balance must go to the Bait-ul-Mal. Even new-born babies also received stipends. He went to the Prophet's Masjid and called general "Shura'. Once a camel belonging to the Bait ul-Mal ran away. and military service to Islam. I would be thankful if you allow me to take some honey from the Bait-ul-Mal. Hadrat Umar said to him. spoil and conquests of the state. Those who fought in Syria or lraq received 2000 each and those who took part in the battles after this received 1000 each. In the meantime a chief of a clan came to meet him. young or old. Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) told the man. "You are entitled to get as much as the camel would have fetched before it grazed in the official pasture. The Muslims who accepted Islam before the conquest of Makkah but after the "Treaty of Hudaibiya" received 3000 each. the "Badriyin" (the participants of Badr battle) received 5000 Dirhams each. There was plenty of honey in the Bait-uI Mal. Sir William Muir in his book "Caliphate" comments on it "A people dividing amongst them the whole revenues. those who participated in the battle of Uhud or participated in the "Treaty of Hudaibiya" received 4000 each. He enquired about it and found out that the camel belonged to a man who allowed it to graze in the public pasture. "Please help me in my work." Such examples are unparalleled in the history of whole civilisation and they show extreme vigilance by Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) of Public Funds. Once Hadrat Umar fell sick and the physician advised him to take honey.the relationship and the closeness with the Holy Prophet. saying: "Give me some because your relatives have certain rights over you". "Of course my relatives have certain rights in my personal property but not in the property of Muslims". He replied. . There are a number of instances which could be presented here Once his daughter. He himself went in search of it. When people assembled he said. that came from a battlefield. on the basis of an equal brotherhood is a spectacle probably without parallel in the world. I am searching a camel of the Bait-ulMal. "I need some honey." Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) was very cautious in spending the Public Fund." He took personal care of the Baitul-Mal properties. The stipend was given to every Muslim whether male or female. Umm-ul Mu'minin Lady Hafsa (the chaste widow of the Holy Prophet Sal Allaho Alehe Wassallam) came to him and demanded some share in the booty. The surplus was distributed among Muslims which was determined by three main principles .administration and warfare was met. or if a rich man becomes poor.e..e. the commander at the Syrian front returned all the Indemnity tax. ." Once Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) saw an old non-Muslim begging.. The old man said that he had to pay Jizya (Indemnity).. Moreover utmost care was exercised in levying the Jizya. "Jizya would not be taken from those who serve in the army. when he left the conquered places for the time being to return to safer borders in order to prepare against the Romans at Yarmuk.. There are instances that when Muslims left a conquered place due to some reasons." This is an exemplary treatment. Do not break any agreement signed with them." Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah (Raziallah Anho). The poor and orphans were never charged. the non-Muslim." Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) had issued orders to various commanders during the battles with Persians "Do not charge any Jizya from those who have helped the Muslim cavalry (i. Then he ordered the officers not to charge Jizya from such persons." In the agreement signed at Adharbijan.) took any help from them for their protection they would not have to pay the Jizya. it was clarified that Jizya would be paid to the State by the non-Muslims for their protection and in case the State (i. they returned the Jizya taken from non-Muslims of that place. Muslims are responsible to take care of such persons and to pay them for their needs from the Bait-ul-Mal. Fight for their protection (if some body attacks them).e.Jizya (Indemnity or Defence Tax): Some western writers have objected to realisation of Indemnity Tax (Jizya) from the nonMuslims of the state. Hadrat Umar immediately brought him home and gave some money to him. In the agreement which was signed at Hirah this very well be seen. If we seek your help for protecting you. He was so solicitous about non-Muslims that he left a will: Take care of the "Dhimmis" i. In many agreements signed by Muslims during the wars.... or if a person meets an accident. for the year of services. he had received. we would not charge any tax (Jizya). a nation could give to conquered people. He asked him the reason for begging. Following agreement was signed with the inhabitants of Jarjan "It is our responsibility to protect you and your property against any invasion and you would pay annual tax (Jizya) in lieu thereof. the tax was as under . Do not take that work from them which they can not do.. But this tax was taken for their safety against any invasion from outside. There was no Indemnity tax on old persons who could not work. army). "If any old man is unable to earn. then no Jizya would be charged from him. Muslim Govt. ‘to revert’. So the Islamic State also levied a tax of 10% on the goods brought into Muslim territories by Harbi traders as a reciprocal measure. Property of apostates confiscated by the State. the tax was also extended to the Zimmi and Muslim traders at the rate of 5% and 2. 7. when Iraq.5% respectively. ‘to come back’. After the death of the Prophet. 10. Imam Abu Yusuf in his book Kitab-ul-Kharaj gives a lengthy and interesting account of these debates. Zubair and Bilal backed by the army generals were of the view that the conquered lands sould be divided among the soldiers just like other categories of booty from which one-fifth is taken out for the Muslim community and fourfifth is distributed among the participating soldiers. 8. 2. the Governor of Iraq apprised the caliph about the fact that the Roman and Persian Governments of the neighbouring countries were levying import tax on the Muslim traders who visited their countries to sell their articles of trade.Miscellaneous Sources: Apart from the six major sources of revenue narrated above. In the modern world these taxes are called import duties or custom duties or tolls. The proceeds from things found on the highways when there is no claimant of such things. the following miscellaneous revenues also contributed towards the public treasury of the early Islamic State:1. Income from public domain or the lands owned by Bait-ul-Mal is another source of revenue in an Islamic State. etc. 6. Income from forests. Abdul Rahman. 4. Hadrat Umar introduced import duties which were charged on the articles of trade and merchandise imported into Islamic State. 9. The term Fai is applied in the Qur’an and the Sunnah exclusively to war gains— whether consisting of lands or tribute or indemnities—which are obtained from an enemy who has laid down arms before actual fighting has taken place. Companions of the Prophet at the request of caliph Hadrat Umar held meetings to discuss and deliberate upon the issue. Iran and Egypt were conquered by Muslim armies. On the other hand Hadrat Umar backed by . Al-Fai: Fai means ‘to return’. there was a controversy among the Muslims concerning the lands of these countries. Abu Musa Ashari. Property found in the hands of thieves and high-way robbers when there is no owner to claim it. Property of Zimmi-rebels guilty of treason. Later on. Estates of persons leaving no heir and no will. When the Muslims conquered enemy countries by armed force they gave name of Fai to perpetuated incomes obtained once and returned again each year. 3. These import duties on mercantile goods are called ‘ushur’ by the Muslim jurists. 5. Income from Waqf properties (Properties or lands donated by generous persons to the Islamic State for charitable cause) is yet another source of substantial revenue Other minor sources include the following:Income from lease or license to exploit or use certain things belonging to Islamic State. etc. The system was set up so efficiently that the revenue from Kharaj rose before the death of Hadrat Umar to an impressive level of 12. Moreover. rate. In case of payment of Kharaj every facility is given to the tax-payer and very lenient treatment is accorded. Kharaj has been historically charged on either of the two basis i.e. 3.Kharaj: Kharaj means revenue. for the pay of soldiers and other state officials and also for the purchase of arms.Ali-b-Abi Talib and Muadh-b-Jabal was of the opinion that these lands should be retained in state control and should not be distributed among the soldiers. According to Imam Abu Obaid. Hadrat Ali issued special instructions to the Kharaj collectors not to . It is. 2. Hence the jurists have classified Kharaj into two types. 6. an agricultural tax received from non-Muslim owners of the lands. in Egypt it rose to 1. Soon after taking over the conquered lands in the State control. Kharaj is rent or produce received from land. Thus. Kharaj is charged on the Kharaj land.20 crore Dinar and in Syria it amounted to 1. produce. No Kharaj is payable on the habitations or houses of the land-owners. At last Hadrat Umar succeeded in persuading the members of Shura with his convincing arguments to agree to his point of view. Al. In case of destruction of the entire crop by some natural calamity. lease. Income from these lands would be considered Fai revenue and would be utilized for common benefits and for state expenses in the light of the Qur’an and the Sunnah. proportional Kharaj which is charged in the form of a definite portion of the produce. Hadrat Umar set to re-organise the system of revenue. During the times of Hadrat Umar fixed Kharaj was charged while in the Abbaside period proportional Kharaj was levied. Muslim or Zimmi. for example.40 crore Dinar. 7. received from land which the Muslim jurists call Kharaj land. does not make any difference. it was decided that the conquered lands of these countries would be considered Fai property and would be kept under state control for the benefit of all Muslim Ummah including future generations. 5. No Ushr can be levied on land which is Kharaj land. 4. Some of the rules and by-laws of Kharaj are briefly stated as under:1. one-half or one-third etc. wages. he wanted to retain the land in the state control as Fai belonging for all time to the whole Muslim Ummah for the benefit of all future generations. no Kharaj is charged if the land is being subjected to proportional Kharaj.80 crore Dirham in Iraq. on fixed rate or on proportional basis. The land once declared as Kharaj land continues to remain as such even if the owner becomes Muslim or he sells the land to a Muslim. fixed Kharaj levied at a fixed amount per unit of area. Whether the owner is minor or adult. in fact. free or slave. etc. tax. Survey of these lands was carried out and Kharaj was imposed according to the rates fixed per unit of land on different categories of crops. rent. The reasons why Hadrat Umar wanted to retain lands in state control were that he wanted a regular source for the government for war expenses. income. He covered the Ka'bah with very costly Egyptian cloth instead of ordinary cloth. "You can not help Umar on the Day of Judgement. He is himself responsible for it. The Haram (Masjid-ul-Haram) in Makkah was too small for the increasing Muslim population. from the Bait-ul-Mal and personally prepared meals for the children. He was going round one night when he saw a woman with some children just on the outskirts of the city. I would quote only a few Once a caravan came to Medina and alighted outside the city. In Kufa a separate Masjid was built for every clan. To find out the needs of the people he used to go out during night time. cattle and implements of the farmer in the recovery of Kharaj. Aslam offered his services but he said. clothes. Construction of Masjids and establishment of Schools: He founded a number of schools. A number of instances could be cited in this connection. He bought all the houses and properties surrounding the Masjid besides the houses of the chaste widows of the Holy Prophet . A number of Masjids were built by Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho). Besides the allowances described above he also gave stipends to the poor and disabled persons regardless of their faith and creed. Any person having any need reported to Umar (Raziallah Anho) and he helped him. He extended it and built a wall around it in order to separate it from the township. According to some historians he built four thousand Masjids. specially of Syria to build at least one Masjid in each city or town. Every day after the congregational Salats he used to sit in the Masjid in order to listen to the complaints of the people. The children were crying due to hunger. Personal care of the Public and stipends to disabled persons and the poor: Hadrat Umar used to take personal care of the public. The Masjid of the Holy Prophet was also extended. His slave.attach household effects. Masjids were used for giving religious instructions.. He himself brought some flour and butter etc. He immediately called his wife who worked as a midwife. He himself guarded the caravan during the night and saw to their needs." Once he saw a bedouin staying outside the city and his wife was in the throes of child birth. He asked the governors of various provinces. and Tarikh-i-Khulafa etc. A big platform was constructed in the yard of the Masjid to impart Islamic knowledge. Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) Initiated 41 good practices during his period. and extended the Masjid. AND IF THERE IS ONE AMONG MY PEOPLE HE IS UMAR"." (Tirmidhi) AND "AMONG THE NATIONS BEFORE YOUR TIME THERE HAVE BEEN INSPIRED PEOPLE (WHO WERE NOT PROPHETS). Actually Hadrat Umar (Raziallah Anho) was the founder of ISLAMIC DEMOCRACY based upon the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (Sal Allaho Alehe Wassallam). The details can be seen in the books of Islamic History like Tabari. These are known as "Awliat-i-Umar (the Initiations Of Umar). Umar's (R. The words of the Holy Prophet are very true "IF THERE WERE TO BE A PROPHET AFTER ME HE WOULD HAVE BEEN UMAR IBN AL-KHATTAB. Most of these initiations have been mentioned in the preceding pages in brief.(Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam). Ibn-i-Athir.A) Period was the GOLDEN AGE of ISLAMIC History: Thus we see that Hadrat Umar’s period was the Golden Age of the Islamic history when Islam was practised in its true form. (Bukhari and Muslim) . which were based upon the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam). . .CSS Forums. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.com/2011/11/hazrat-umar-raziallahhotaalunho-history. Hazrat Umar (RaziAllahHoTaalUnho) History ~ Islamic Blog about Muslims.net/khulafa/Umar. . [ONLINE] Available at: https://www. 2015. .Bibliography: Hazrat Umar Bin Khattab's(RA) Administration.A. [Accessed 24 December 2015].com/the-second-caliph-hazrat-umar-ra-634-644-a-c/.Quran O Sunnat.C. [ONLINE] Available at:http://alquraan.. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. Hazrat Umar (ra) (634-644 A.CSS Forums. ISLAM & SPIRITUALISM: Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA) : Second Caliph of Islam..quran-o-sunnat. Caliph Alfarooq Hazrat Umar ibn Al Khattab (RA) .html. [ONLINE] Available at:http://islamicspiritualism.cssforum. Hadrat Umar R. The Second Caliph. 2015.slideshare.. Caliph Al-farooq Hazrat Umar ibn Al Khattab (RA) .alislam.) . 2015. 2015. 2015.pk/off-topic-section/islam/49239-caliph-al-farooq-hazratumar-ibn-al-khattab-ra-7.islamghar.com/2010/12/hazrat-umer-farooq-ra-secondcaliph-of. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www. [Accessed 24 December 2015].org/library/khilafat/Hadhrat %20Omer.html. [Accessed 24 December 2015].Quran O Sunnat.pdf. Hazrat Umar Bin Khattab's(RA) Administration. ISLAM & SPIRITUALISM: Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA) : Second Caliph of Islam. 2015. 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