Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) – The Second Caliph

Early Life and Pre-Islamic Years

Full Name: Umar ibn al-Khattab ibn Nufayl
Date of Birth: Approximately 584 CE
Place of Birth: Makkah, Arabia
Tribe: Quraysh, the Adī tribe, a respected tribe in Makkah

Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) was born into the Quraysh tribe, one of the most powerful and noble tribes in Makkah. His father, al-Khattab, was a respected man in the tribe, and Umar (RA) grew up in a family of strength and discipline. Before Islam, Umar (RA) was known for his strong personality, fierce temper, and outspoken nature. He was a merchant, and a well-educated man who knew both poetry and the traditions of the Arabs. He was initially one of the staunchest opponents of Islam, seeking to oppose and challenge the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his followers.

Initial Opposition to Islam

Umar (RA) was one of the most fervent opponents of Islam in its early days. He viewed the new faith as a threat to the traditions and power of the Quraysh and was determined to stop its spread. He initially played an active role in persecuting the early Muslims.

Desire to kill the Prophet: At one point, Umar (RA) even set out with the intention of killing Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. However, his plans were foiled by a divine intervention that led him to meet Khalid ibn al-Walid (RA), who directed him to the house of his sister, Fatimah, where he overheard Qur’anic verses being recited by Sa’id ibn Zayd. This moment became a turning point.

Embracing Islam

Umar ibn al-Khattab’s (RA) conversion to Islam is one of the most dramatic and significant events in Islamic history. His change of heart is said to be due to an encounter with the truth of the Qur’an.

Conversion: Upon hearing the Qur’anic verses from Surah Taha recited by his sister, Fatimah, Umar (RA) was deeply moved. His heart softened, and he immediately realized the truth of Islam. He rushed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and, in a historic moment, accepted Islam, becoming the sixth person to do so.
Key Moment: Upon accepting Islam, Umar (RA) declared, “O Messenger of Allah, I am a Muslim.” His conversion was a turning point in the spread of Islam, as his powerful presence within the Quraysh was now on the side of the Muslims.

Umar (RA) and the Early Years of Islam

After his conversion, Umar (RA) became one of the strongest supporters of Islam. His courage and strength proved invaluable to the early Muslim community, especially in times of persecution in Makkah.

Boldness in Public Islam: One of the first major changes Umar (RA) made was to openly declare his faith. Previously, the Muslims had practiced Islam in secret, but with Umar’s conversion, he challenged the Quraysh leaders openly. He is famous for entering the Kaaba and declaring the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad ﷺ in front of the enemies of Islam.
Role in Early Muslim Battles: Umar (RA) participated in many early battles, including Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq. His bravery in battle, and his role in organizing the Muslim forces, were critical to the success of the early Muslim community.
Support for the Prophet ﷺ: During these early years, Umar (RA) served as one of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ’s most loyal companions. He was a constant source of support, helping with both military and administrative tasks. His loyalty to the Prophet ﷺ and his commitment to Islam were unwavering.

Becoming the Second Caliph

After the death of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA), the first caliph, the Muslim community unanimously chose Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) as the second caliph in 634 CE. His caliphate would last for 10 years, and it was during his reign that Islam truly expanded into a powerful empire.

Umar (RA) as Caliph: Key Contributions

1. Expansion of the Islamic Empire

Military Campaigns: Under Umar’s (RA) leadership, the Islamic Empire expanded rapidly. The Muslim armies conquered vast territories, including parts of Byzantine Syria, Egypt, Persia, and North Africa. The conquest of Persia in particular was a monumental achievement. These victories established Islam as a dominant force in the region and ensured the spread of Islamic teachings to distant lands.
Battle of Yarmouk: One of the most famous battles during Umar’s (RA) reign was the Battle of Yarmouk (636 CE), where the Muslims defeated the Byzantine forces decisively. This victory paved the way for the Islamic conquest of Syria and beyond.

2. Administrative and Judicial Reforms

Establishment of Islamic Law: Umar (RA) introduced many key administrative and judicial reforms, ensuring that the justice of Islam was applied fairly across the newly expanded empire. He appointed judges and ensured that the principles of the Qur’an and the Sunnah were upheld.
Creation of the Islamic Calendar: One of Umar’s (RA) important contributions was the establishment of the Islamic lunar calendar. He instructed that the calendar be based on the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Madinah.
Public Welfare: Umar (RA) paid great attention to the welfare of the people, particularly the poor, orphans, and widows. He ensured that the state treasury (Bait-ul-Mal) was used wisely for the benefit of the Muslim community. He is famously known for going out at night to inspect the needs of his people, even in disguise, so as not to be recognized.
City Planning: Under his leadership, cities such as Kufa, Basra, and Fustat were founded, with infrastructure being established to ensure that these cities were well-organized and flourishing.

3. Piety and Personal Integrity

Simple Lifestyle: Despite his vast power and influence, Umar (RA) was known for his simple, austere lifestyle. He lived in a humble home, and his diet was basic. His personal integrity and commitment to justice were legendary.
Strength in Leadership: Umar (RA) was known for his strong and decisive leadership. He was not afraid to make difficult decisions, and he was always concerned with the well-being of the Muslim ummah (community). His commitment to justice and accountability was unparalleled.

Umar’s (RA) Final Years and Death

Umar (RA) ruled for 10 years, and his leadership played a critical role in the establishment of the Islamic state. However, towards the end of his caliphate, he faced many challenges, including internal dissent and the expansion of the empire.

Assassination: In 644 CE, Umar (RA) was assassinated by a Persian slave named Abu Lulu while he was leading the Fajr prayer in the mosque in Madinah. The assassin, who had a personal grievance against Umar (RA), fatally stabbed him, and Umar (RA) succumbed to his injuries after several days of suffering.
His Last Words: Umar’s (RA) last words were a testament to his dedication to justice and his concern for the future of the Muslim community. He said, “I leave the caliphate to the best among you, and I pray that Allah’s mercy be upon me.”

Legacy of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA)

Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) is widely regarded as one of the greatest rulers in history, not only in Islam but in general. His reign marked a period of great expansion, justice, and infrastructure for the Islamic empire.

Key Contributions and Legacy:

Expansion of Islam: Under Umar’s (RA) leadership, Islam spread across vast territories and became a dominant force in the Middle East and beyond.
Legal and Administrative Systems: He laid the foundation for Islamic law and governance, establishing structures of justice, welfare, and accountability.
Social Justice: His commitment to the well-being of the poor and oppressed remains one of his most enduring legacies. His rule is remembered for the fair treatment of non-Muslims and the promotion of social equity.
A Role Model: Umar (RA) is remembered as a man of great piety, wisdom, and strength, and he is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Islamic history.

Key Lessons from the Life of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA)

Lesson	Meaning
Justice and Accountability	Umar (RA) was committed to ensuring justice for all people, regardless of their status.
Strength in Leadership	He showed strong leadership even in times of adversity.
Piety and Humility	Despite his position, he led a simple and humble life, focusing on his duties to Allah and the people.
Commitment to the Ummah	Umar (RA) worked tirelessly for the well-being of the Muslim community.

Conclusion

Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) stands as one of the greatest leaders in history. His life was marked by his unwavering faith in Allah, his strong leadership, and his commitment to justice and equality. His contributions to the spread of Islam and the establishment of its principles of governance and law continue to resonate to this day.