‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA): The Caliph of Justice
Introduction
Among the ten companions promised Jannah during their lifetime (العشرة المبشرون بالجنة), ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) stands out for his strength, justice, and unwavering devotion to Islam. He was the second rightly guided Caliph (Khalifah Rashidun) and one of the most influential leaders in Islamic history. His life and leadership remain shining examples of courage, fairness, and fear of Allah.
His Acceptance of Islam
Before embracing Islam, ‘Umar (RA) was known for his firm opposition to the Prophet ﷺ. However, when his heart was opened to guidance, he became one of the strongest supporters of Islam.
The Prophet ﷺ once prayed:
"اللَّهُمَّ أَعِزَّ الْإِسْلَامَ بِأَحَبِّ الرَّجُلَيْنِ إِلَيْكَ: بِأَبِي جَهْلٍ، أَوْ بِعُمَرَ بْنِ الْخَطَّابِ."
"O Allah, honor Islam through the more beloved of the two men to You: Abu Jahl or ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab." (Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi, 3682)
Allah answered the Prophet’s du‘a by guiding ‘Umar to Islam.
Qur’anic Praise and Agreement
There are multiple instances where Allah revealed verses agreeing with ‘Umar’s views. One example is the command regarding the hijab (veil) for the wives of the Prophet ﷺ:
﴿ يَا أَيُّهَا ٱلنَّبِيُّ قُل لِّأَزْوَٰجِكَ وَبَنَاتِكَ وَنِسَآءِ ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يُدْنِينَ عَلَيْهِنَّ مِن جَلَـٰبِيبِهِنَّ ﴾
“O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks over their bodies…” (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:59)
‘Umar had previously suggested that the Prophet’s wives observe more modest covering, and Allah revealed the verse in agreement.
Hadith: Promise of Paradise
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
"عُمَرُ فِي الْجَنَّةِ"
“‘Umar is in Paradise.” (Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 3747)
He also said:
"لو كان بعدي نَبِيٌّ لَكَانَ عُمَرُ بْنُ الْخَطَّابِ"
“If there were to be a prophet after me, it would be ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab.”
(Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 3686)
This speaks to ‘Umar’s wisdom and deep spiritual insight.
His Caliphate
As the second Caliph, ‘Umar led the Muslim Ummah with fairness and strength. During his reign:
Islam expanded into Persia, Rome, and Egypt.
Social justice systems like welfare and public treasury were developed.
He implemented the Islamic calendar (Hijri).
He ensured justice even when it came to his own family.
He once said:
"لو أنَّ بغلةً عثرتْ بالعراقِ لكنتُ مسؤولًا عنها لِمَ لمْ أُعبِّدْ لها الطريقَ؟"
“If a mule stumbled in Iraq, I would be held accountable for not paving the road for it.”
Such was his sense of responsibility and fear of Allah.
Personal Traits
‘Umar (RA) was known for:
Justice: He was titled Al-Farooq—the one who distinguishes between right and wrong.
Taqwa: Despite his power, he feared Allah greatly and lived simply.
Humility: He patched his clothes and walked the streets at night to check on people.
His Martyrdom
‘Umar (RA) was assassinated while leading the Fajr prayer. Even in his final moments, he was concerned about his accountability before Allah. He said:
"وَيْلٌ لِعُمَرَ إِنْ لَمْ يَغْفِرْ لَهُ رَبُّهُ."
“Woe to ‘Umar if his Lord does not forgive him.”
Conclusion
‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) is a towering figure in Islam. His life is a lesson in courage, governance, humility, and faith. His place among the Asharatul Mubashara is well deserved, and his legacy continues to inspire Muslims around the world.
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