People say; Good leadership is like prized perfume. Its very first scented waft announces its presence with astonishing freshness. Bad leadership like skunk just stinks.

Democracy is not a separate ideology from Islam. In fact democracy is very much there in Islam. There is no concept of dictatorship, popism (mullaiyat) and totalitarianism in Islam. Islam doesn’t believe in any kind of Monarchy and Oligarchy. When we analyze what democracy is we come to the conclusion that it is nothing but the sense of Responsibility and Accountability. The absolute system of governing, which Islam presents totally based upon three golden fundamentals i.e. Consultation, Responsibility and Accountability. The political system of Islam totally depends upon Shooraiat (consultation). The significance of consultation in governance proves by this that a complete surah in Quran is named “Al-shoorah” (consultation).

The nectar of good governance and effective administration is enshrined in its leadership’s personal integrity and self-accountability; in justice for all, and in people’s freedom to speak out. The American Constitution prides itself for incorporating in its preamble the five basic responsibilities of the government – justice for all; ensuring domestic tranquility; providing for common defense; promoting general welfare and lastly, securing the blessings of liberty to people and to their posterity.

Hazrat Umer in the 7 th century extolled and applied these principles – already available to him through Islam – in letter and spirit, and without any exceptions during his reign.

“No man is above the law and no man below it; nor do we ask any man’s permission when we require him to obey it. Obedience to the law is demanded as a right; not asked as a favor”.

-Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919)

“Hazrat Umer (R.A) was courageous, unselfish, and passionately committed to the ideals of justice and equity which had been so lacking in the Meccan polity.” – Karen Armstrong, “Muhammad: A Prophet for Our Time’, pg185

Hazrat Umer, by all accounts, was an “energetic and brilliant” man. He can, of course, be called the forerunner of any, “visionary modern state”, in the comity of 192 countries of the world, in which people are prosperous and safe, are treated equally by the law of the state, irrespective of their social or financial status; are habitually law-abiding, and fair in their dealings, are literate and tolerant, and above all, are thoroughly charitable and honest. He, during his tenure of ten years, six months and four days, not only accomplished these ideals in some very difficult times, but also lived to see people willingly live by them.

As described in connection with the life of Hadrat Abu-Bakr, during his illness he consulted the “Shura” about the next “Khalifah” and then gave his decision in favour of Hadrat Umar (R.A.) who took the charge of Caliphate after the death of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) His caliphate marked the “Golden Age” of Islam.

He was a very pious Muslim. His success lay in two things-fear of Allah and his love for the Holy Prophet (PBUH). He never used even oil from the Bait-ul-Mal (Public Treasury) to burn a lamp at night for his personal needs. Whenever he finished the official work he put off the lamp. He used to patrol in the city at night to find out the needs and requirements, and conditions of the people. He did not hesitate to take his wife to work as a midwife for a poor woman. The salary he got from the Bait-ul-Mal was so low that it was hardly enough for him and his family’s needs. When some of the eminent Muslims requested him to increase the amount he, said, “The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa Sallam) has left a standard by his personal example. I must follow him”.

Hadrat Umar was the most just ruler in the Islamic History. All the citizens, including the Caliph himself, were equal before law. Once he appeared before a court at Medina to clarify his position against a complaint. The Qadi (Judge) wanted to stand in his honour, but he did not allow him to do so, so that there would be no distinction between him and an ordinary person before Law. Courts were completely independent and free to give its verdict on any matter that was presented before them even if it was against state or khalifah. The government couldn’t interfere in their decisions. He was really the founder of modern democratic system.

As far as Khalifa is concerned, he had no right and power to forgive or condone those who were prosecuted and convicted by the courts. There was complete supremacy and rule oflaw. They were all equal in the eyes of law whether they were rich or poor, ruler or labourer. Nothing was hidden from anyone regarding matters or policies relating to Government and state.

Khalifa used to tell participants in Jummah prayer in mosque about important issues. Every citizen could enquire about any thing. Democracy was ruling in its best shape. Khalifa was held responsible and was subject to answer to his people. History is full of different examples that how Khalifa consulted Majlis-e-Shoorah on different issues and how sahabah reacted, criticised and gave their opinions.

Hazrat Umar (RA) had given such type of general freedom of criticism and expression to the people on his actions and orders that an ordinary person didn’t hesitate or reluctant to criticise or object on khalifa itself.

Once a person said to Hazrat Umar (RA) many times: “O’Umar, be afraid of Allah”. A person amongst the audience tried to stop that person. Hazrat Umar (RA) said, “No, let him say. If those people will not say anything to me then what is the use of those?

Besides, Hazrat Umer, by temperament, was a hard taskmaster, and was very strict and uncompromising in matters of justice and accountability. But, his kind of leader was the need of the day. Hazrat Abu Bakr was very right when during the last days of his life, he said about Hazrat Umer. “Umer has been strict because I was soft. The burden of the State affairs will soften him out”. Hazrat Talha on hearing that Hazrat Umer was to become the Caliph, had come running to Hazrat Abu Bakr with this concern, “ In your presence, Umer treated us so. How will he treat us when you are gone and he becomes the Caliph? Now that you are about to meet God; think how you will explain this to Him”. Hazrat Abu Bakr replied, “I’ll tell God. For Your people, I have appointed one who has been the best”.

Hazrat Umer was, no doubt, strict, but he was always resolute, decisive, assertive, and clear headed. Quick, not hasty decision and its compliance was the hallmark of his rule. It is important to know that he was never unpopular or unacceptable to the Tribal Arabs, because he was totally transparent, and honest. “His inner self is better than his outer self. He has no second among us”, was what was said about him by Hazrat Usman at the time of his becoming the caliph. Besides, there was around him ever present, the wisest among the wise, Hazrat Ali.

Be it fixing the stipend for the caliph, or acting as caliph in his absence when Hazrat Umer had had to leave for Syria to apprise himself of the condition of the soldiers during the breakout of an epidemic; or advising Hazrat Umer not to leave Medina, but ask the governors of Kufa, Basra and Syria to send their army contingents to counter the Iranians at Nehavend in 642,, to count only a few occasions, Hazrat Ali’s able guidance like a guiding star had always been there for him.

Once Hazrat Umer fell ill. It was suggested that he be given honey as a cure, and there was no honey at his home. A good stock of it, however, was there in the Bait-ul-Maal. Hazrat Umer sough the permission of the people in Masjid-i-Nabvi if he could take a little bit of honey from there. One express purpose behind seeking this open permission was to let the people know what little rights the caliph had in the use of public money.

Once the first lady, Um-e- Kulsum, sent some perfume vials as a gift to the women of Kaiser of Rome. They, out of goodwill, returned the bottles of perfume, but filled with precious jewels. Hazrat Umer heard about the exchange. He ordered confiscation of the jewels, stating, “Perfume was yours, but the messenger used in the process was a government employee”. He ordered that the jewels be deposited in Baitul Maal, and his wife be compensated for the actual value of the perfume.

Once his daughter, and Prophet’s wife, Hazrat Hafsa, came to him to claim her share in the war-booty on account of her special double status, “Zuwalqarba”. Hazrat Umer disappointed her by saying, “You will have your share in my portion, not in the war booty. It is sad that you tried to hoodwink your own father”. She felt ashamed for ever putting up such a demand.

One big factor in the success of Hazrat Umer was his strict control over the public exchequer. He suspended Hazrat Khalid bin Walid, (and Hazrat Bilal as well), for his failure to submit the details of the expenditures. The relaxed supervision of the fiscal matter in later periods, (and in modern times), created un-surmountable problems for them.

In one khutba, he made it clear on all the eight governors, “Always keep in mind that I have appointed you over people, not as their masters, or as their over-lords with a view to suppressing them; but as their ‘Imams’, as their ‘Role-Models’, so that people may follow you. You are to guard their rights, and not to humble or manhandle them… do not keep your doors closed at them in a manner that the strong is able to cause harm to the weak. Don’t rank yourselves above people because that will amount being unfair to them”. Some of the conditions he laid down for them were:

You shall not ride a Turkish horse (symbol of elitism)
You shall not attire yourself in fine/silken clothes (sign of extravagance)
You shall not eat flour bread free of brawn. (excessive worldliness)
You shall not post a guard/security at your door (inaccessibility)
You shall remain available to the complainant all the time.

This declaration was to be read out in front of the appointees as well as in the public. In one such meeting, a person rose and said that one of his governors had unjustly inflicted 100 lashes on him. The official who had done this was none else but Hazrat Umro bin Al Aas. Hazrat Umer asked the complainant to redress his grievance by inflicting the same number of lashes on the governor. Hazrat Umro bin Al-Aas, stood up and said that such a practice was to make it difficult for an official to perform his duties. Hazrat Umer instantly replied, “But I do not want to be on the side of a criminal, too”. Hazrat Umro bin Al Aas had had to plead for clemency from the accuser, who agreed to accept two gold coins for each lash. (Kitab Al Kharaj pg 66).

Hazrat Umer never compromised in matters of justice and accountability. People tolerated his severe punishments when they saw him doing the same in case of his own kith and kin. His son, Abu Shehma when found drunk, was inflicted 10 lashes by none else but by the caliph himself. And he expired during the award of the punishment. Qadama bin Mazoon was a Sahabi of great standing and was his brother-in-law too. He, too, was charged on the same account, and was publicly awarded 10 lashes.

Hazrat Ayaz bin Ghanam was appointed as the governor of Egypt. A report was received that Ayaz was leading a lifestyle that was not in line with the stated declaration. He had given himself to wearing fine silken clothes, and had also begun posting a guard at his residence. Hazrat Mohammad bin Musalama Ansari, a great Sahabi and his Ombudsman, or Chief Investigator was asked to look into the matter. On enquiry, the charges were found true. Hazrat Umer ordered that Ayaz bin Ghanam’s robe be replaced with a coarse woolen outfit, and he be reassigned to the tending of a herd of sheep. People heard Ayaz saying, “I wish I had been dead”. Hazrat Umer reminded him. “Why do not feel small in shepherding a herd.

After all your father had earned this title of ‘Ghanam’ for being a shepherd”. Al Kharaj page 66.
These days in Pakistan, a lot of mud slinging is being carried out against the different chairmen of the National Accountability Bureau in the alleged corruption cases of high officials. Hazrat Umer in that post had appointed Hazrat Mohammad bin Musalama Ansari, one of the most respected Sahabis. His credentials were that he had participated in all the battles fought during the Prophet’s time. In one case, the Prophet himself had appointed him as his assistant in Medina. So when Hazrat Mohammad bin Musalama Ansari investigated against an official, it meant total transparency. Truth would not stay hidden, nor anybody could dare disputing that the action taken was politically motivated.

Once a son of Hazrat Umro bin Al-Aas, the conqueror of Egypt, beat a non-Muslim without any reason. Hazrat Umer had that respected son of Hazrat Umro bin Al Aas thrashed publicly, stating, “Since when did you begin enslaving people whose mothers had given birth to them as free?”

On one occasion he said from the pulpit, “O People, in case you ever find me tilting towards worldliness; what will you do then?” A man rose from the gathering, drew his sword and said, “You will be beheaded with it”. Hazrat Umer in order to further test him, said, “You, daring to say so to me”. He remained resolved and said, “Yes, it will be like this for you”. Hazrat Umer then said, ‘Thank God. I have men like you who have the courage to straighten me out if I ever I chose to deviate from the right path”.

Once a Christian complained to Hazrat Umer when he was in the Harem in Makka that he had been doubly taxed on his horse. He submitted this complaint when Umer was delivering the khutba there. Later when he returned to the capital, the same Nasrani (Christian) who had lodged the complaint came to him to remind him of it. Hazrat Umer told him, “I’m the Hanifi, who took care of your complaint there and then”.

During the famine days in 639 or around and while returning from Syria, he stopped by a lone tent in which there lived an old woman. He asked her, “How is Umer doing?” She replied, “I heard about him coming from Syria. God’s curse be on him, I haven’t received a single Hibba from him during these hard times.” “How should Umer know about you, living so far away?’ asked Hazrat Umer. She angrily replied, “What kind of caliph is he if he doesn’t know how people are living under him”. Hazrat Umer cried bitterly outside her tent. He later fixed a daily allowance for all those who were poor, jobless, or were people with special needs. Anybody leading apparently an easy life, but availing himself of that allowance was personally tested on the caliph whenever possible. If found guilty, he was chided in such words as, “You have belittled yourself in my eyes”. During those hard times, Hazrat Umer was often found in a great agonizing state. He would cry and pray, “O God, do not inflict these people with hardships because of my doings”.

Hazrat Umer did not believe in the concept of pre-destination as did many of his veteran officials and Sahabis such as Hazrat Abu Obaida, and Hazrat Muaz bin Jabal. During the breakout of an epidemic in 639 in Syria and Egypt. The army had been stationed at a low lying area. Hazrat Umer asked the commander, Hazrat Abu Obaidah, to remove it to the higher lands. He refused to do so contending it was, “Ifrar min Qadrutullah, i.e. it amounted to running from Taqdeer-e-Illahi”. Meanwhile about 25 thousand soldiers perished. Hazrat Umer and Hazrat Umro bin al Aas always contented that the epidemic was a curse like the one which once had befallen Bani Israel. It needed to be dealt with “Tadbeer, logic and effort”. But Hazrat Obaidullah and later Hazrat Muaz died, sticking to their pre-fated philosophy, contending that it was a blessing in the sense that it was test of their faith in God.

In short he was the best example of an ideal character, and was the greatest “Khalifah” of Islam after Abu Bakr (R.A.). He selflessly devoted his whole energy for the cause of Islam. Muslims will always be indebted to him for his great achievements.

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Umar ibn al-Khattab, al-Farooq (in Arabic, عمر بن الخطاب) (c. 581 - November, 644), sometimes referred to as Umar Farooq or just as Omar or Umar, was the second caliph of Islam (634-644). He is regarded by Sunnis as one of the first four Khulfa-e-Rashidun (in Persian and Urdu, خلفأے راشدین) (or "Rightly Guided Caliphs").

Umar was born in Mecca around 581 to the Adi clan of the Quraish Tribe. He is said to have belonged to a middle class family. He was literate, which was uncommon in those times, and he was also well known for his physical strength, being a champion wrestler.

When Muhammad first declared his message of Islam, Umar resolved to defend the traditional religion of the Quraish (regarded by Muslims as idolatry). With his sword in his hand, he set out intending to kill Muhammad. While on his way he was told that his sister had became a Muslim. He went to her and found her reciting verses of the Qur'an. He became infuriated and gave her a slap which caused a bloody wound. His sister did not lose spirit and eventualy Umars heart softened and he converted to Islam in the same moment.

Umar was part of the first emigration (Hijra) to Yathrib (renamed Medinat al Nabi, or simply Medina shortly thereafter) in 622 C.E. (also known as year 1 A.H., Anno Hegirae, in the Islamic Calender, which was instituted by Umar in 638). He was one of the companions, or close associates of Muhammad.

Sunnis claim that The Prophet once said that "Satan amongst men amd Jinn flee from Umar". Once a hypocrite amongst the Muslims had a fight with a Jew. It is said that the Jew knew that he was right and that Muhammad would favour him. So he took the case to the prophet. As the Jew had thought, the prophet decided that the Jew was right. So the Jew was favored. The Muslim hypocrite did not like it. He took the case to Umar. When the jew narrated how the prophet had made the judgement, Umar was so enraged with the Muslim hypocrite he told him to wait and went inside and came back with his sword and chopped his head off saying if you did not accept Muhammad's (Peace Be Upon Him)decision then you are not a Muslim you are a hypocrite. From that day Umar Sunnis claim that Umar was given the title "Al Faruq". It means one who can distinguish between the good and bad.

When war broke out between Mecca and Medina; Umar accompanied in several of the battles.



Hazrat Umar Farooq (Radi Allah Unho)

ELECTION

Before he passed away, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) consulted the senior Sahaba and elected Sayyiduna

Umar (radi Allahu anhu) as the second Caliph of the Muslims.

EARLY LIFE

He was the son of Khattab and is famous in Islamic history as "Al Farooq" or "One who Distinguishes between

Right and Wrong." His acceptance of Islam is also very famous.

AS A CALIPH

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) was a very brave and straight-forward person. He was tough and uncompromising

in Islamic principles. He was a great and talented ruler. During his Khilaafat, vast areas of the Roman and Persian

empires and the whole of Egypt were brought under Islamic rule. He was also a gifted orator. He was very concerned

for the welfare of the Muslims. He left a honourable legacy for Muslims after him. The Holy Quran was given to him

by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) for safe-keeping.

APPOINTS NEW COMMANDER

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anu) was a strong disciplinarian. He noticed the tremendous popularity of Sayyiduna

Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu). He felt that people will lose trust in Almighty Allah and put all their trust in

Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu). He feared that the people may think too highly of him, thereby possibly

increasing the self-esteem of Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) which would also breed arrogance, so he

removed Sayyiduna Khalid (radi Allahu anhu) and appointed Sayyiduna Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah (radi Allahu anhu) as

the Commander in Chief of the Muslim army.

Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) happily accepted the orders of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) and

then served as an ordinary soldier. This is an example of the Islamic teachings of obedience to leadership!

DEFEAT OF THE PERSIANS

Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) had left Sayyiduna Muthanna (radi Allahu anhu) in command of the

Muslim forces on the Iraqi front when he rushed to Yarmuk. Sayyiduna Muthanna (radi Allahu anhu) was finding it

difficult to counter the enemy and went personally to Madinatul Munawwarah to ask Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu

anhu) for re-inforcements. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) had by that time passed away.

Sayyiduna Muthanna (radi Allahu anhu's) absence from the Iraqi front made things worse there. The Iranians

regrouped under the command of Rustam and recaptured the lands taken by the Muslims. Rustam sent 2 columns of

his army, one to Hirah and the other to Kaskar.

Islamic Article: Hazrat Umar Farooq (Radi Allah Unho)

NooreMadinah Network - http://www.NooreMadinah.net

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) sent Sayyiduna Abu Ubaidah (radi Allahu anhu), as Commander, to deal with the

situation. Both the Persian columns were defeated. Rustam sent an even larger army and defeated the Muslims.

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) raised another army and defeated the Persians. But the Persian court sent yet

another larger army, and forced Sayyiduna Muthanna (radi Allahu anhu) to withdraw. The report of the new situation

was sent to Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) and reinforcements under the command of Sayyiduna Saad bin Abi

Waqqas (radi Allahu anhu) were sent.

The Persian and Muslim army met at Qadisiyah. After a long battle on several fronts, the outnumbered Muslim army

defeated the 120 000 Persian soldiers and recaptured Hirah and their areas in the year 14 A.H. (636 C.E).

DEFEAT OF THE ROMANS

Muslims laid siege to Damascus during Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu's) rule as Caliph. It continued, after he

passed away, and lasted 70 days during the rule of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu). After the long siege,

Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) took the Romans by surprise and entered the city. The Governor

surrendered and a peace treaty was signed.

CONQUEST OF JERUSALEM

Meanwhile, Sayyiduna Amr ibn As (radi Allahu anhu) was laying siege to Jerusalem. Sayyiduna Khalid, Sayyiduna Abu

Ubaidah and other Sahaba (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in) also joined him. The Christians had little hope and decided

to give in. They also suggested that the keys of Jerusalem be given to Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) himself

personally. Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) went to Jerusalem. An agreement was signed that guaranteed the

safety of the city and the safety of the Christians.

ASSASSINATION

A Persian non-Muslim, named Firoz and nicknamed "Abu Lulu," complained to Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu)

about his master, Sayyiduna Mughirah bin Shuba (radi Allahu anhu), who imposed tax on him. Sayyiduna Umar (radi

Allahu anhu) told Firoz that the tax was reasonable. This made Firoz angry.

The next day, during the Fajr Salaah, he stabbed Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) 6 times in the back, severely

wounding the Caliph. Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) passed away 3 days later in 23 A.H. He was 63 years old. He

ruled the Islamic State for 10 years, 6 months and 4 days.

REFORMS

In a short space of 10 years, Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) had been well-known for his outstanding

achievements and reforms in Islam. Some of these reforms were:-

1. He established the "Baitul Maal" (People's treasury for the state and public).

2. Judicial courts of Justice were set in the country. Judges and Magistrates handled all cases.

3. Establishment of an army headquarters for the defence of the country.

4. Construction of roads and canals.

5. Schools were established. Salaries for Imams, Mu'azzins and Ustaads were organized.

6. Masjids were improved and built in Makkatul Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah. This included facilities

for the Haajis.

7. Police Stations and prisons were built.

8. Establishment of the first Islamic Lunar calendar beginning from the Hijrah.

9. Proper weights and measures introduced.

10. Population census established.

11. Built orphanages and welfare homes.

12. Established proper punishment system and banned slavery.

PERSONAL LIFE

Simplicity and devotion were the main characters of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu). He used to wear clothes that

had many patches and yet received Governors, convoys and diplomats. He took just enough allowance from the State

to have a simple meal and wear simple clothes. At times he was very poor. He used to visit the old people and sick

and even do their house work. He used to visit the houses of the soldiers and inquire about their families. He stayed

awake at night in Salaah and often kept Fast. He always supported and upheld the cause of Islam, with his wisdom,

energy, dynamism, bravery and little wealth.

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Forget safety.Live where you fear to live.Destroy your reputation.Be notorious

1. Hazrat Umar Radi Allahu anhu stated that Ali Radi Allahu anhu is Maula of whom Rasool Allah Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam is Maula of.


2. Hazrat Saalim Radi Allahu anhu narrates that Hazrat Umar Radi Allahu anhu was asked why he treats Hazrat Ali Radi Allahu anhu with greater respect than any other Sahabi. Hazrat Umar Radi Allahu anhu replied, "He (Ali Radi Allahu anhu) is my Maula (Master).


3. Two Bedouins came quarelling to Hazrat Umar Radi Allahu anhu who said to Hazrat Ali Radi Allahu anhu , "O Abul-Hassan, Please settle the dispute between these two". Thereafter, Hazrat Ali Radi Allahu anhu made his judgement in favour of one of them. One of the men remarked, "Is he all who remained to settle our dispute?". On hearing this Hazrat Umar Radi Allahu anhu leapt towards the man and grabbed him by the neck (and lifted him off the ground) and said, "Do you know who he is?". He is my and every Momin's Maula (Master). Whoever does not consider him his Maula is not a Momin.


take note and see the aqidah and mohabah between the Sahaba e Kiram and the Ahle Bayt e Azam.
The Sahaba e Kiram would give their lives for the Prophets Dear Household

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Forget safety.Live where you fear to live.Destroy your reputation.Be notorious

Sayings of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.w) about hazrat Umar E Farooq R.A:

1. I see that devil either from humans or jinn, runs away from Umar. (Tirimzi)

2. I saw in a dream that I was given a bowl of milk which I drunk and remaining I gave it to Umar. (Tirimzi)

3. No doubt, ALLAH has issue truth, on the tongue and in the heart of Umar. (Tirimzi)

4. I saw a dream that I am in the Heaven, there I saw Rameesa (my quilt aunt) and I heard someone's footstep, I asked: who is this?. I was answered: it is Bilal and I saw a palace with a handmaid standing in front of it, I asked: whose palace is this?. She said: Umar bin Khattab's. I wished to see it from inside but, Oh Umar!, I divided my attention from your shame. Hazrat Umar (r.a) said: My father and mother be sacrificed upon You, should I ponder from Your saying?. (Bukhari)

5. If some else Prophet should have been proposed by ALLAH after me, would have been Umar bin Khattab. (Tirimzi)

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"nothing is impossible but nothing is easy"

Umar is regarded as one of the greatest political geniuses in history. While under his leadership, the empire was expanding at a unprecedented rate, he also began to build the political structure that would hold together the vast empire that was being built. He undertook many administrative reforms and closely oversaw public policy. He established an advanced administration for the newly conquered lands, including several new ministries and bureaucracies, and ordered a census of all the Muslim territories. During his rule, the garrison cities (amsar) of Basra and Kufa were founded or expanded. In 638, he extended and renovated the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca and the Al-Masjid al-Nabawi (Mosque of the Prophet) in Medina. Umar also ordered the expulsion of the Christian and Jewish communities of Najran and Khaybar allowing them to reside in Syria or Iraq. He issued orders that these Christians and Jews should be treated well and allotted them the equivalent land in their new settlements. Umar also forbade non-Muslims to reside in the Hejaz for longer than three days. He was first to establish army as a state department. Umar was founder of Fiqh, the Islamic jurisprudence. He is regarded by Sunni Muslims to be one of the greatest Faqih. Umar as a jurist started the process of codifying Islamic Law. In 641, he established Bayt al-mal, a financial institution and started annual state sponsored allowance for the poor Muslims in Makkah and Al Madinah. A year later he also started allowance for the poor, underprivileged and old non-Muslim citizens of the empire. As a leader, 'Umar was known for his simple, austere lifestyle. Rather than adopt the pomp and display affected by the rulers of the time, he continued to live much as he had when Muslims were poor and persecuted. In 639, his fourth year as caliph and the seventeenth year since the Hijra, he decreed that the Islamic calendar should be counted from the year of the Hijra of Muhammad from Mecca to Madinah

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Forget safety.Live where you fear to live.Destroy your reputation.Be notorious

Muhammad died on 8 June 632. Just before the death, there were a group of companions of Muhammad were near him when Muhammad asks that he want to write a will and hence require a pen and paper. Umar said that Muhammad is seriously ill and his brain is not working fully. Abu bakar also agreed on that. When Muhammad heard that, he ordered both to leave the room. Umar was full of grief upon hearing the news, Umar, the devoted disciple, could not accept the reality that the "Messenger of God" has died. According to the Qur'an, "Muhammad is but a messenger; messengers have passed away before", i.e. died or killed. It is said that Umar promised to strike the head of any man who would say that Muhammad died. At this point Abu Bakr is reported to have come out to the Muslim community and gave his famous speech which included:

"Whoever worshipped Muhammad, let them know that Muhammad is dead, and whoever worshipped God, let them know that God is alive and never dies."

Abū Bakr then recited these verses from the Qur'an:

"Muhammad is but a messenger; messengers (the like of whom) have passed away before him. If, then, he dies or is killed, will you turn back on your heel?".

Hearing this from Abu Bakr, the most senior disciple of Muhammad, Umar then fell down on his knees in great sense of sorrow and acceptance of the reality. Sunni Muslims say that this denial of Muhammad's death was occasioned by his deep love for him.

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Forget safety.Live where you fear to live.Destroy your reputation.Be notorious

The coming over of Omar made a difference for Islam. Hitherto, the Muslims had lived in constant fear of the non-believers. Some of them had not even made their faith known to the people. They could not say their prayers publicly. All this changed when Omar became a Muslim.

The first thing Omar did was to call together the chiefs of Mecca. Before this gathering he declared himself a follower of Islam. They started at him in silence. No one had the courage to utter a word of reproach.

Omar next requested the Holy Prophet to say prayers in the Kaaba. He himself led a party of Muslims to that place. A second party was led by Hamza. When all had gathered, they said their prayers in congregation. The Holy Prophet led the prayer. This was the first prayer of its kind said in the Kaaba.

When migration to Medina started, the same thing happend again. Most of the Muslims left Mecca silently and secretly. But Omar would not do so. He put on his arms. Then he went to the Kaaba and said his prayer. The chiefs of Mecca looked at him in silence. After the prayer, he shouted out to them, "I am leaving for Medina. If anyone wants to stop me let him meet me across the valley. His mother shall certainly have to weep for him in sorrow."

Despite this challenge, no Meccan would dare to stop Omar. These things earned for Omar the title of Farooq. Farooq is the one who makes a difference. Omar's acceptance of Islam had made a big difference for Islam and Muslims.

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After the assumption of office as the second Caliph, Umar soon realized that he was more feared than loved. Abu Bakr, his predecessor, was tender and soft hearted. Whenever he appeared in the streets of Madina, the children ran to him saying "Father, Father."

On the occasion of the first Friday prayer after his assumption of office as Caliph, Umar addressed the faithful assembled in the mosque of the Prophet in the following terms:
"Brethren, it has come to my notice that the people are afraid of me. They say when the Holy Prophet was alive, Umar was harsh to us. During the caliphate of Abu Bakr, Umar was hard and stern. Now that he has become the Caliph himself, God knows how hard he will be. Whoever has said this is not wrong in his assessment.

"The truth of the matter is that I was the slave and servant of the Holy Prophet. The Holy Prophet was most kind hearted, liberal and generous. In contrast I was hard and harsh. Sometimes he ignored my point of view. There were occasions when he agreed with me. Till the death of the Holy Prophet that remained the situation between him and me. Thank God, the Holy Prophet was pleased with me. Though the Holy Prophet sometimes accepted my advice, and sometimes turned it down, yet he approved of my conduct.

"During the caliphate of Abu Bakr my role remained the same. Abu Bakr was most soft hearted and tender. It was my business to bring the other side of the picture to his notice. He always took my point of view into consideration, but the ultimate decision lay with him. Sometimes he agreed with me, and I acted as his agent to enforce a decision which appeared to be harsh. Sometimes he did not agree with me, and I had to remain quiet. I am happy that throughout the period of his office, Abu Bakr approved of my conduct, and ultimately nominated me as his successor, although I did not covet the office.

"Now that the entire responsibility has come to vest in me, know ye brethren that you will feel a change in me. I will no longer be hard and stern in all matters. For those who practice tyranny and deprive others of their rights, I will be harsh and stern, but for those who follow the law, and are devoted to religion, I will be most soft and tender. I will not tolerate any person make any excess. He who commits any tyranny, him I will sternly call to account. I will be harsh and stern against the aggressor, but I will be a pillar of strength for the weak and the meek. They will find in me their best friend.

"Friends you have some rights on me, and I tell you of these rights, so that you may be in a position to call me to account. These rights are:
Firstly, that I should not exact any tax or other levy from you not authorized by law;
Secondly, that whatever taxes are lawfully realized from you are spent in your best interests;
Thirdly, it is incumbent on me that I should protect the frontiers of your land;
Fourthly, it is my duty to promote your prosperity and look after your interests;
and Fifthly, it is my obligation to do justice.

"O servants of God, continue to fear God. Suppress your selfish motives and work for the solidarity of the Muslims as a whole. In running the State, you are my partners. Help me with your sound advice. If I follow the right path laid down by God and His Prophet follow me. If I deviate, correct me. Strengthen me with your advice and suggestions. Let us pray for the glory of Islam."

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Umar was known for his great knowledge and wisdom. He often expressed his thoughts in words conspicuous for their wisdom. A number of his sayings have come down to us, and these show the depths and dimensions of his thoughts and expressions. We give hereunder the various sayings attributed to Umar, which we have been able to gather from various sources:
"Fear him, whom you hate."
"Do not put off today's work for tomorrow."
"Don't forget your own self while preaching to others."
"The less of the world, the freer you live."
"Avoidance of sin is lighter than the pain of remorse."
"The wisest among you is he whose sustenance is the fear of God."
"Praise God, for by praise His blessings multiply."
"Fear God, for that is fortune; indifference to God is misfortune."
"Be patient; patience is a pillar of faith."
"Acquire knowledge and teach it to the people"
"Be dignified, honest, and truthful"
"God forbid, men should be jealous of knowledge as they are jealous of women."
"May God bless the man who says less and does more."
"Allah loves moderation and hates extravagance and excess."
"As long as you are pure of heart, you speak the truth."
"Forgive the people so that God may forgive you."
"For the people prefer that which you prefer for yourself.
Which you do not wish for yourself, do not impose on others."
"Every ruler should keep his door open to the people."
"The way to express gratitude to God is to give Zakat out of the property that He has bestowed on you."

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Many instances are on record when Umar gave a particular opinion and that opinion was later on corroborated by Allah and conurmation thereof was communicated to the Holy Prophet through Gabriel. That is why the Holy Prophet repeatedly said: "God speaks through the tongue of Umar."

Umar suggested that the station of Abraham in Mecca should be used as a place of prayer. Later an injunction to this effect was revealed to the Holy Prophet.

Umar suggested that the wives of the Holy Prophet should be veiled. Later a verse was revealed enjoining the wives of the Holy Prophet to be veiled.

Umar suggested that the use of wine should be prohibited. Thereafter God enjoined the prohibition of wine.

Umar suggested, "The words 'I testify that Muhammad is the Messenger of God'

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