The Virtues of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA)
**The Virtues of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA)**
**By: Mufti Usman Siddiqui**
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### **Introduction**
Among the most towering figures in Islamic history stands Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), the second caliph of Islam and one of the greatest companions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Revered for his justice, wisdom, bravery, and deep love for Islam, Umar al-Farooq (RA) is remembered not just as a political leader, but as a spiritual and moral giant. This article explores his life, his contributions to Islam, and his unmatched virtues, interwoven with reflective English poetry.
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### **His Early Life**
Born in 584 CE into the noble tribe of Banu Adi of the Quraysh, Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) was known for his intelligence, eloquence, and physical strength. Before Islam, he was a fierce opponent of the Muslim community.
> **"A man of stone with a heart of fire,**
> **Soon to be molded by divine desire." **
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### **Conversion to Islam: A Turning Point**
Umar's (RA) conversion marked a significant turning point in Islamic history. Once a staunch adversary of the Prophet (SAW), he embraced Islam after being moved by verses of the Qur'an.
The Prophet (SAW) had once prayed:
> "O Allah! Strengthen Islam with one of the two Umars."
That prayer was fulfilled when Umar (RA) accepted Islam, and the Muslims began to practice their faith openly.
> **"From sword to shield, he turned that day,**
> **And led the light in a fearless way." **
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### **His Title: Al-Farooq**
Umar was given the title **"Al-Farooq"**, meaning "The One Who Distinguishes Between Right and Wrong." The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) himself gave him this title, recognizing his clarity of judgment and unwavering support for truth.
> **"He stood with truth, in blazing sun,**
> **A wall for the weak that no one fears." **
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### **Relationship with the Prophet (SAW)**
Umar (RA) was deeply attached to the Prophet (SAW). He once said:
> "O Messenger of Allah! You are dearer to me than everything except my own soul."
To which the Prophet replied, "None of you truly believes until I am more beloved to him than his own soul."
Umar (RA) paused and then said: "Now, by Allah, you are more beloved to me than my own soul."
> **"His eyes would weep, his hands would pray,**
> **For Mustafa, by night and day." **
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### **His Leadership and the Golden Age**
Upon the martyrdom of Abu Bakr (RA), Umar assumed the caliphate. His reign lasted over ten years and is often referred to as the "Golden Age of Islam." During his leadership:
* The Islamic empire expanded rapidly.
* Systems of justice, administration, and public welfare were established.
* Famine relief, state pensions, and police systems were introduced.
> **"He ruled not with crown, nor throne of pride,**
> **But truth and fear of God by his side." **
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### **Justice of Umar (RA)**
The justice of Umar (RA) is legendary. He was known for his principle that even the caliph is accountable. One famous story recounts:
A poor woman once challenged him, and he accepted her argument, praising her wisdom. Umar (RA) famously said:
> "A woman is right and Umar is wrong."
> **"A tyrant he was not, but humble and just,**
> **In every verdict, placed Allah his trust." **
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### **Expansion of the Islamic Empire**
Under Umar's leadership, the Islamic empire extended into Persia, Rome, Egypt, and Syria. Historic battles such as Yarmouk and Qadisiyyah were fought, and cities like Basra and Kufa were established.
> **"His sword was sharp, his plan was wise,**
> **He spread the truth beneath open skies." **
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### **Spiritual Devotion**
Despite his worldly responsibilities, Umar (RA) remained deeply spiritual. He often wept in prayer, feared accountability before Allah, and wore simple clothes.
> **"A king in rags, with tear-stained eyes,**
> **Who feared the Lord beyond the skies." **
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### **Umar (RA) and the Qur’an**
Several verses of the Qur’an were revealed confirming Umar’s opinion. For example, the verses of hijab, the prohibition of alcohol, and the status of prisoners at Badr were all revealed after he gave his view.
> **"His words aligned with Heaven’s light,**
> **Revealed by angels in the night." **
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### **Love for the Ummah**
He would walk at night to observe the conditions of his people. He once saw a mother using stones to boil water to calm her hungry children. He wept and carried food on his own back.
> **"The streets he roamed while others slept,**
> **For every tear, his conscience wept." **
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### **Martyrdom**
Umar (RA) was martyred while leading the Fajr prayer. Abu Lu'lu', a Persian slave, attacked him with a poisoned dagger. He passed away three days later.
He requested to be buried beside the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), a wish that was fulfilled.
> **"In prayer he fell, with God's name on tongue,**
> **A warrior old, forever young. **
> **Now sleeps he near the Chosen One,**
> **Their souls united, journey done." **
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### **Eulogies and Praise**
Even Ali (RA) said:
> "When Umar spoke, we listened; when he walked, we followed. We compared none to him."
The Prophet (SAW) once said:
> "If there were to be a Prophet after me, it would have been Umar."
> **"No ink can pen the praise he earned,**
> **No flame can match the fire he burned." **
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### **Lessons from His Life**
1. **Accountability:** Rule yourself before ruling others.
2. **Justice:** Be fair even against your own interest.
3. **Simplicity:** Power does not require luxury.
4. **Spirituality:** Never forget Allah in success.
5. **Responsibility:** Every leader is a shepherd over his flock.
> **"He left a path lit clear and wide,**
> **For hearts to walk, for faith to guide." **
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### **Conclusion**
The life of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) is a beacon for all who seek justice, leadership, and spirituality. His memory is not merely history — it is a legacy of action, courage, and divine submission.
> **"O Umar, your name in hearts engraved,**
> **A torch for souls, a world you saved." **
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