What is the character of Hazrat Umar? Biograghy of Hazrat Umar
*Complete Biography of Hazrat Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA)*
*The Caliph of Islam and Al-Farooq
Hazrat Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) is counted among the greatest leaders in world history. He was the second Caliph of Islam and one of the closest companions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. His rule set standards of justice and governance that people still study today.
*1. Early Life and Background*
*Birth:* Around 584 CE in Makkah
*Tribe:* Banu Adi, Quraysh
Umar (RA) grew up in a time when Arabia was tribal and tough.
- *Education:* He could read and write, which was rare then. He learned trade, poetry, and tribal laws.
- *Profession:* He was a trader and traveled to Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.
- *Personality before Islam:* Strong, brave, and respected for solving disputes. But he was also very strict against Islam in the beginning because he thought it would break Arab traditions.
*2. Acceptance of Islam*
This was the turning point for both Umar (RA) and the Muslim community.
In 616 CE, about 6 years after Prophethood, Umar (RA) left his house with a sword, intending to harm the Prophet ﷺ.
On the way he learned his sister Fatima bint Al-Khattab (RA) and her husband Saeed had become Muslim.
When he went to their house he heard them reciting Surah Taha. The words touched his heart. He went directly to Dar-e-Arqam and accepted Islam in front of the Prophet ﷺ.
After his conversion:
- Muslims came out and prayed openly at the Kaaba.
- The Prophet ﷺ gave him the title *"Al-Farooq"* - the one who distinguishes truth from falsehood.
- Islam became stronger in Makkah.
*3. Life During the Time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ*
Umar (RA) was one of the most trusted companions.
- *In battles:* He fought in Badr, Uhud, Khandaq, Khaibar, and all other major battles.
- *In advice:* Many times his suggestions matched later Qur’anic revelations. That’s why he was called "Muhaddas" - someone whose heart aligns with truth.
- *In character:* He was firm, but he loved the Prophet ﷺ more than himself. He donated half his wealth during Tabuk.
*4. Caliphate Era: 634 CE – 644 CE*
After Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA) passed away, he appointed Umar (RA) as the next Caliph. This 10-year period is called the golden age of Islamic administration.
*A. Expansion of the Islamic State*
During his rule, the Muslim empire became one of the largest in the world.
- *Persia:* Fully conquered
- *Syria & Palestine:* Including Jerusalem in 638 CE
- *Egypt:* Conquered in 640 CE
- *Iraq:* Key cities like Basra and Kufa were founded
He never took wealth for himself from these conquests.
*B. Administrative Reforms*
Umar (RA) built the foundation of an Islamic state.
1. *Hijri Calendar:* Started from the year of Hijrah 622 CE
2. *Diwan System:* Government record of salaries, pensions for Muslims
3. *Provinces & Governors:* Divided the empire into provinces with appointed governors and judges
4. *Bait-ul-Mal:* Central treasury for public welfare
5. *Police & Prison:* First police force and jails were established
6. *Land Tax & Census:* Proper system for collecting tax and keeping records
*C. Justice System*
Justice was the center of his rule.
- He appointed Qazis in every major city.
- He punished governors if they were unjust, even if they were his relatives.
- He said: _"If a dog dies hungry on the bank of Euphrates, Umar will be responsible on the Day of Judgment."_
- He would walk at night in Madinah to check on people himself.
*D. Public Welfare Projects*
- Built canals in Egypt and Iraq for farming
- Built roads and guest houses for travelers
- Set monthly allowances for poor, orphans, widows, and even non-Muslims
- Controlled prices in the market
*E. Military Organization*
- Fixed salaries for soldiers
- Built military camps in Kufa, Basra, and Fustat
- Created record keeping for army
*5. Personality and Character*
Umar (RA) was known for 3 things: justice, simplicity, and fear of Allah.
- *Simple life:* As Caliph he wore patched clothes and ate simple food.
- *Accountability:* He stood for questioning in public gatherings.
- *Soft heart:* He cried a lot in prayer and was very kind to orphans.
- *Strict for himself:* He was harder on himself than on others.
*6. Important Events During His Rule*
- *Conquest of Jerusalem 638 CE:* He went personally and signed a peace treaty protecting churches.
- *Year of Ashes:* During a famine, he lived like the poorest person and gave all Bait-ul-Mal to people.
- *Council for Shura:* He established consultation as a system for decisions.
*7. Martyrdom*
In Dhul Hijjah 23 AH / 644 CE, during Fajr prayer in Masjid-e-Nabawi, he was stabbed by Abu Lulu, a Persian slave.
He led the prayer despite injury. Before dying he set up a 6-member council to choose the next Caliph.
He was buried next to Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr (RA).
*Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ*
*1. Who was Hazrat Umar (RA)?*
He was the second Caliph of Islam, a close companion of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and known as Al-Farooq for standing for truth and justice.
*2. When was Hazrat Umar (RA) born?*
Around 584 CE in Makkah.
*3. When did he accept Islam?*
Around 616 CE, 6 years after Prophethood began.
*4. How long was his caliphate?*
10 years, from 634 CE to 644 CE.
*5. What are his biggest achievements?*
Expansion of the Islamic empire, establishment of Hijri calendar, Diwan system, courts, police, Bait-ul-Mal, and strong justice system.
*6. Why is he called Al-Farooq?*
Because he clearly separated truth from falsehood. His conversion gave strength to Muslims.
*7. How did Hazrat Umar (RA) die?*
He was martyred during Fajr prayer in 644 CE in Madinah.
*8. What was his ruling style?*
Justice for all, accountability, simplicity, and service to people. He lived like an ordinary citizen.
*9. Did he conquer Jerusalem?*
Yes. In 638 CE he traveled to Jerusalem and signed a treaty ensuring safety for all communities.
*10. What lessons do we learn from his life?*
Lead with justice, live simply, serve people, fear Allah, and make systems that help the weak.
Hazrat Umar (RA)’s life teaches us that real leadership is about responsibility, not power. His systems and character are still studied in universities and leadership courses around the world.
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