Wisal Hazrat-e-Usman[RA]


  1. The Wisaal of Hazrat Usman (RA): A Martyr’s Legacy

Hazrat Usman ibn Affan (RA), the third Caliph of Islam and a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), occupies a revered place in Islamic history. Known for his piety, generosity, and modesty, Hazrat Usman’s leadership was instrumental in expanding the Islamic empire and preserving the Qur'an in its standardized form. His passing—referred to as Wisaal in spiritual terms—was not just a moment of sorrow for the Muslim ummah, but also a testimony to his unwavering faith and commitment to Islam. This article delves into the circumstances of his martyrdom, its historical context, and his enduring legacy.


  1. Early Life and Contributions to Islam

Hazrat Usman (RA) was born into the influential Umayyad clan of the Quraysh tribe in Makkah around 576 CE. Even before embracing Islam, he was known for his honesty, generosity, and gentle demeanor. He converted to Islam through the efforts of Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA), making him one of the earliest followers of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Hazrat Usman (RA) married two daughters of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)—Ruqayyah and, after her death, Umm Kulthum—earning him the title Dhun-Nurayn (The Possessor of Two Lights). This unique honor highlights the close and loving relationship he shared with the Prophet (ﷺ).

He was also a wealthy merchant who spent much of his wealth for the cause of Islam. His contributions included purchasing the well of Rumah for public use, financing the expansion of Masjid al-Nabawi, and funding military expeditions during times of need.


  • Caliphate and Achievements

Hazrat Usman (RA) became the third Caliph of Islam in 644 CE after the martyrdom of Hazrat Umar ibn Khattab (RA). His reign lasted for twelve years and is often divided into two phases: one of great stability and prosperity, and another of rising dissent and unrest.

  1. Key accomplishments during his caliphate include:
  2. Compilation of the Qur'an: Perhaps his most lasting legacy was the compilation and standardization of the Qur'an. As Islam spread to different regions, linguistic differences began to affect the recitation of the Qur'an. Hazrat Usman (RA), upon advice from companions like Hudhayfah ibn al-Yaman, ordered the creation of a standard version to preserve the authenticity of Allah’s word. Multiple copies were sent to major cities of the Islamic empire.

  3. Expansion of the Empire: Under his leadership, the Islamic state expanded into regions such as North Africa, Armenia, and parts of Central Asia.

  4. Administrative Reforms: Hazrat Usman appointed governors and administrators to manage the rapidly growing empire, though some of these appointments would later become a source of controversy.


  1. The Rise of Opposition

In the later years of his caliphate, Hazrat Usman (RA) faced growing dissent, fueled by a mix of tribal rivalries, political ambitions, and accusations of nepotism. Some of his decisions—such as appointing family members to key positions—were misunderstood or misrepresented, leading to discontent in certain quarters of the empire.

Many of his opponents failed to understand his motivations and policies, and rumors were spread to destabilize his rule. Despite mounting pressure and unrest, Hazrat Usman (RA) remained committed to avoiding bloodshed among Muslims. He refused to use force against the rebels, adhering to the prophetic principle of unity and patience in the face of fitna (discord).


  1. The Siege of His House

The final chapter of Hazrat Usman's life was marked by a tragic and prolonged siege of his home in Madinah. A group of rebels from Egypt and Iraq, dissatisfied with his rule, surrounded his house and cut off access to food and water.

During the siege, many companions offered to defend him with force, including Hazrat Ali (RA), Hazrat Zubair (RA), and Hazrat Talha (RA). However, Usman (RA) forbade any armed resistance, fearing the spilling of Muslim blood within the city of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Throughout this period, he continued to recite the Qur'an, trusting in the mercy and justice of Allah. It is reported that during the final days of the siege, he saw the Prophet (ﷺ) in a dream, along with Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA), who said: “Be patient, O Usman. You will break your fast with us tonight.”


  1. Martyrdom: A Testament to Faith

On the 18th Dhul Hijjah, 35 AH (June 656 CE), Hazrat Usman (RA) was martyred in his home while reading the Qur'an. The rebels broke into his house and struck him fatally. His blood fell upon the pages of the Holy Qur'an—particularly a verse from Surah Al-Baqarah (2:137), which reads:

"So Allah will suffice you against them. And He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing."

This moment of martyrdom is regarded by scholars and saints as a sign of his closeness to Allah. To be martyred while reading the Book of Allah is an honor that very few attain. His Wisaal was thus not just a physical death, but a spiritual ascension—an ultimate testimony of his faith, patience, and love for Islam.


  1. Burial and Aftermath

Due to the tense situation in Madinah, Hazrat Usman (RA) was buried quietly at night in the Jannat al-Baqi cemetery. His death shook the Islamic world and triggered a period of significant turmoil and civil unrest.

The martyrdom of Hazrat Usman (RA) marked a turning point in Islamic history. It not only signaled the end of the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs as a united front but also exposed the internal divisions that would later lead to the First Fitna (civil war).


  1. Legacy and Spiritual Lessons

Hazrat Usman’s life and Wisaal provide many enduring lessons:

  1. Patience in Adversity: Despite severe hardship and betrayal, he remained steadfast and peaceful, relying on Allah alone.

  2. Dedication to the Qur'an: His love and service to the Qur'an have preserved the sacred text for generations. Every Muslim today benefits from the Mushaf standardized under his leadership.

  3. Generosity and Modesty: His wealth never distracted him from piety. His humility and charitable acts remain an inspiration.

  4. Unity over Conflict: His refusal to fight fellow Muslims, even to save his own life, speaks volumes of his commitment to unity.


  1. Conclusion

The Wisaal of Hazrat Usman (RA) is not merely an episode of historical importance but a spiritual beacon that continues to illuminate the hearts of the believers. His life was marked by sincerity, sacrifice, and submission to Allah’s will, and his death was a culmination of his deep love for Islam. His martyrdom while holding the Qur'an symbolizes the ultimate union of a believer with his Creator—through the word of Allah and unwavering faith.

May Allah elevate his status in Jannah and grant us the ability to follow his noble example. Ameen.

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