Umar

Umar was one of the most powerful caliphs in the history of Islam. He played an important role in shaping the destiny of Islam. Under the leadership of Umar, Muslims established their reign over the Persian and Roman empires. Umar was a close companion and advisor of prophet Muhammad. Born in Mecca, into the ‘Banu Adi’ clan of the ‘Quraysh’ tribe, Umar was initially opposed to Islam. He was against Prophet Muhammad and his beliefs. However, after a while, Umar heard a recital of the ‘Quran’ and had a change of heart. He became a trusted follower of Muhammad. Their ties became stronger when Muhammad got married to Umar’s daughter. Following his conversion to Islam, Umar became well-versed in the ‘Quran’ and Islamic rituals. After the death of Muhammad, Abu Bakr became the first caliph of the ‘Rashidun Caliphate.’ During the era of Abu Bakr, Umar was his close advisor. After his death, Umar was elevated as the second caliph. During his reign, Islam had an unprecedented growth. Umar was a pious and just leader. He was known for strict enforcement of Islamic rules. He earned the epithet “Al Farooq,” meaning “a person who distinguishes the right from the wrong.” He was a gifted orator, which helped him win hearts of people around him. Umar concentrated on the well-being of the poor and the needy. He also expanded the Islamic empire and ruled over the Persian and Byzantine empires. He set aside the Christian ban on Jews and allowed them to enter Jerusalem for worship. While leading a prayer meeting, Umar was attacked by a Persian slave. Three days later, he died of the wounds. According to the ‘Sunni’ tradition, Umar is considered as a propagator of Islamic virtues. However, the ‘Shia’ tradition has a different view of Umar. The ‘Shias’ have portrayed a bleak picture of him. To this day, Umar is revered as the architect of Islamic traditions.