Hazrat Umar (RA) was born in 583 AC. He spent his childhood and young age in the pre-Islamic society and he followed the steps of Quraish and was an opponent of Islam and the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA) spent his childhood in hard work and struggles.Hazrat Umar (RA) was the son of Khattab. He was initially a non-Muslim but converted to Islam later. After his becoming Muslim, he was given the title of "Al-Farooq meaning the one who distinguishes the right from wrong. His conversion to Islam is also one of the most remarkable events in Islamic History.Hazrat Umer (RA) is counted as one of the Righteous Caliphs. His personality was characterized by courage and bravery as well as understanding of matters and leadership skills. After assuming the position of Khilafah he established a regular and central government.
Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab, commonly
known as Hazrat Umar Farooq, was the second caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate
and a pivotal figure in early Islamic history. His life and leadership had a
profound impact on the development of the Islamic state and its administration.
Hazrat Umar established the diwan (a register of warriors pensions that over time evolved into a powerful government body), inaugrated the Islamic Hijri calender and created the office of the qadi (judge). He also established the garrrison cities of Al-Fustat in Egypt and Basra and Kufah in Iraq.
Advice of Hazrat Umar:
Early
Life
Born in 584 CE in Mecca, Hazrat Umar
was a member of the Adi clan of the Quraysh tribe. He was known for his strong
personality and was initially a fierce opponent of Islam. However, his life
took a transformative turn in 616 CE when he embraced Islam, a decision that
significantly impacted his personal life and the early Muslim community.
Contributions
and Leadership
**1. As a Caliph: Umar became
the second caliph in 634 CE, succeeding Abu Bakr. His reign is noted for its
administrative efficiency, expansion of the Islamic state, and the
establishment of lasting institutions.
**2. Expansion of the Empire:
Under Umar’s leadership, the Islamic state expanded significantly. He oversaw
the conquests of the Sassanian Empire and parts of the Byzantine Empire,
including Egypt, Syria, and Palestine. His strategic vision and military acumen
played a crucial role in these expansions.
**3. Administrative Reforms:
Umar introduced several key administrative and social reforms. He established a
judicial system with appointed judges and implemented welfare programs,
including the distribution of stipends to the poor and elderly. He is also
credited with creating the Islamic calendar, based on the Hijra (migration of
Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina).
**4. Legal and Social Reforms:
He worked on codifying Islamic laws and ensuring justice. His leadership
emphasized the rule of law and was marked by a strong commitment to fairness
and equity. Umar’s justice system was known for its transparency and
effectiveness.
Character
and Legacy
Hazrat Umar is remembered for his
unwavering commitment to justice and his robust administrative abilities. His
nickname, "Farooq," means "the one who distinguishes between
right and wrong," reflecting his reputation for moral clarity and
integrity.
**1. Piety and Humility:
Despite his powerful position, Umar led a life marked by piety and humility. He
was known for his personal asceticism and his dedication to the welfare of his
people.
**2. Assassination: Umar’s
life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated in 644 CE by a Persian
slave named Abu Lu'lu'ah. His death marked the end of a transformative era in
Islamic history.
Conclusion
Hazrat Umar Farooq's legacy endures
as a model of strong, principled leadership. His contributions to the early
Islamic state set standards for governance and administration that have
influenced subsequent generations. His life remains a subject of deep respect
and study within the Islamic tradition, embodying values of justice,
leadership, and dedication to public welfare.
Hazrat Umar Farooq, often referred
to as Umar ibn al-Khattab, was the second caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate,
succeeding Abu Bakr as-Siddiq. His caliphate lasted from 634 to 644 CE, and he
is renowned for his significant contributions to the early Islamic state.
Here’s a more detailed look at his life and achievements:
Early
Life and Conversion
- Birth:
Umar ibn al-Khattab was born around 584 CE in Mecca, into the Adi clan of
the Quraysh tribe. He was known for his strong physique and sharp
intellect.
- Conversion to Islam:
Initially, Umar was an adversary of Islam and a fierce opponent of the
Prophet Muhammad. However, after a dramatic personal transformation and spiritual
awakening, he converted to Islam around 616 CE. His conversion was a
turning point for the early Muslim community, bringing significant
influence and support.
Leadership
and Reforms
- Caliphate:
Upon the death of Abu Bakr in 634 CE, Umar was elected as the second
caliph. His leadership marked a period of extensive expansion and
administrative reforms.
- Administrative Reforms: Umar is credited with laying down many administrative
structures that helped in the efficient governance of the rapidly expanding
Islamic empire. He established a formal administrative framework,
including the creation of a judicial system and a public welfare system.
- Military Expansion:
His reign saw the significant expansion of the Islamic empire, including
the conquest of the Sassanian Empire and substantial portions of the
Byzantine Empire. Notable conquests under his leadership included
Jerusalem and parts of Egypt.
Legal
and Social Reforms
- Legal Reforms:
Umar introduced several legal reforms, including the establishment of a more
structured legal system and the codification of Islamic laws. He is also
known for his role in compiling the Quran into a single book form.
- Social Welfare:
He was known for his concern for social justice and welfare. Umar
implemented measures to support the poor and needy, and he was known for
his personal humility and commitment to justice.
Governance
and Legacy
- Governance Style:
Umar’s governance was characterized by strict adherence to Islamic
principles and a commitment to justice. He was known for his consultation
with companions and for his straightforward approach to ruling.
- Assassination:
Umar was assassinated in 644 CE by a Persian slave named Abu Lulu. His
death marked the end of a transformative era for the early Islamic state.
Legacy
- Influence:
Umar Farooq's policies and reforms had a lasting impact on the development
of the Islamic state. He is remembered as a just and effective leader
whose governance set important precedents for future Islamic rulers.
- Character:
He is often praised for his piety, fairness, and dedication to the welfare
of his people. His reign is considered one of the golden periods of
Islamic leadership.
Hazrat Umar Farooq's contributions
to Islam and governance continue to be studied and revered, and his leadership
remains an exemplary model of justice and effective rule in Islamic history.