Omar (r) From Hijrah to Khilaafah

Omar (r)Omar (r)From Hijrah to KhilaafahFrom Hijrah to Khilaafah

A.S. Hashim, MDA.S. Hashim, MD

From wikipedia.comFrom wikipedia.com

Sources of ReferenceSources of Reference

Al Farooq, Omar, Muhammad Husayn HaykalAl Farooq, Omar, Muhammad Husayn Haykalal-Tabari, History of the Prophets and Kings al-Tabari, History of the Prophets and Kings Tabqat ibn Sa'ad. Tabqat ibn Sa'ad. al-Suyuti, The History of Khalifahsal-Suyuti, The History of KhalifahsMadelung, Wilferd. The Succession to Muhammad.Madelung, Wilferd. The Succession to Muhammad.K. Y. Blankinship, The History of al-TabariK. Y. Blankinship, The History of al-TabariEarly Khilaafah, Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Ya’qub Early Khilaafah, Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Ya’qub KhanKhanModern Islamic political thought, Hahmid Enayat, Modern Islamic political thought, Hahmid Enayat, Encyclopedia Britannica Encyclopedia Britannica al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah by ibn Kathir al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah by ibn Kathir Armstrong, Armstrong,

In this Slide ShowIn this Slide Show

Al-Masjid Al-NabawiAl-Masjid Al-NabawiThe Brotherhood-in-FaithThe Brotherhood-in-FaithAt Badr, Ohod, and the Ditch ConfrontationsAt Badr, Ohod, and the Ditch ConfrontationsAt Hudaibiya, Khaybar, and the conquest of At Hudaibiya, Khaybar, and the conquest of MeccaMeccaAt Ghadeer Khum, then the Prophet's death and At Ghadeer Khum, then the Prophet's death and the Saqifathe SaqifaAli and the oath of allegiance, and the aftermath Ali and the oath of allegiance, and the aftermath of Saqifaof SaqifaDuring Abu Bakr’s Khilaafah During Abu Bakr’s Khilaafah Omar’s appointed as Khalifa by Abu BakrOmar’s appointed as Khalifa by Abu Bakr

Brotherhood-in-FaithBrotherhood-in-Faith

When Muhammad arrived in Medina, he paired off When Muhammad arrived in Medina, he paired off Each Meccan immigrant (Muhaajir) was to be with one of the Muslim Each Meccan immigrant (Muhaajir) was to be with one of the Muslim residents of the city (Ansaari),residents of the city (Ansaari),He chose one exception: and that was to pair off himself with Ali, since He chose one exception: and that was to pair off himself with Ali, since both were from Mecca, as Brothers-in-Faithboth were from Mecca, as Brothers-in-Faithas Brothers-in-Faith was a unique distinction and honor for Ali.as Brothers-in-Faith was a unique distinction and honor for Ali.

The Prophet joined Omar with either:The Prophet joined Omar with either:Uwaim Ibn Sa’idah Uwaim Ibn Sa’idah ساعدة بن ساعدة عويم بن عويمOr Utban Ibn Malik Or Utban Ibn Malik مالك بن عتبان مالك وقيل بن عتبان وقيلOr Mu’adh Ibn Hafraa Or Mu’adh Ibn Hafraa :عفراء بن معاذ عفراء: وقيل بن معاذ وقيل

making them Brothers-in-Faith. making them Brothers-in-Faith. Later in Omar's reign as a Khalifa, he assigned his Brother-in-Faith Later in Omar's reign as a Khalifa, he assigned his Brother-in-Faith the office of Chief Inspector of Accountability. the office of Chief Inspector of Accountability.

Al-Masjid al-NabawiAl-Masjid al-Nabawi

In Medina, Muhammad decided to In Medina, Muhammad decided to construct a mosque immediately. construct a mosque immediately. A piece of land was chosen and the price A piece of land was chosen and the price of the land was paid for by Abu Bakr. of the land was paid for by Abu Bakr. Muslims constructed the mosque Muslims constructed the mosque collectivelycollectivelyThe Prophet himself participated in the The Prophet himself participated in the constructionconstructionOmar also took part in the construction. Omar also took part in the construction.

The Original MosqueThe Original Mosque

The original mosque was an open-air building with a raised platform The original mosque was an open-air building with a raised platform for the reading of the Quran. for the reading of the Quran. It was a rectangular enclosure of 98 × 115 ft, It was a rectangular enclosure of 98 × 115 ft, It was built with palm trunks and mud walls, and accessed through It was built with palm trunks and mud walls, and accessed through three doors: three doors:

Bab Rahmah (Door of Mercy) to the south, Bab Rahmah (Door of Mercy) to the south, Bab Jibril (Door of Gabriel) to the west and Bab Jibril (Door of Gabriel) to the west and Bab al-Nisa' (Door of the Women) to the east. Bab al-Nisa' (Door of the Women) to the east.

Inside, Muhammad created a shaded area to the south called the Inside, Muhammad created a shaded area to the south called the suffah suffah

and aligned the prayer space facing north towards Jerusalem.and aligned the prayer space facing north towards Jerusalem.When the Qibla was changed, the direction was changed to face the When the Qibla was changed, the direction was changed to face the Ka'ba in Mecca,Ka'ba in Mecca,

Replica of al-Masjid al-NabawiReplica of al-Masjid al-Nabawi

99

Nowadays: al-Masjid al-NabawiNowadays: al-Masjid al-Nabawi

At Badr EncounterAt Badr Encounter

Omar was involved in the first battle Quraish imposed on the Omar was involved in the first battle Quraish imposed on the Muslims at the Battle of Badr, in 624 HijrahMuslims at the Battle of Badr, in 624 HijrahOmar is known to have never had killed anyone of the enemy Omar is known to have never had killed anyone of the enemy at any battle including Badrat any battle including BadrOmar was 43 years old at the timeOmar was 43 years old at the timeAbu Bakr did not participate in the fight neither, instead he Abu Bakr did not participate in the fight neither, instead he was one of the guards of Muhammad's tent. was one of the guards of Muhammad's tent. Ali emerged as the new hero, since he is reputed to have Ali emerged as the new hero, since he is reputed to have finished 22 of Quraish fighters on his own, many being their finished 22 of Quraish fighters on his own, many being their leadersleadersThe 25 year old Ali became the dreaded fighter, the one to The 25 year old Ali became the dreaded fighter, the one to avoid in battle, who was dreaded by Quraish ever sinceavoid in battle, who was dreaded by Quraish ever since

At Ohod EncounterAt Ohod Encounter

In 625 Omar participated in the Battle of Ohod. In 625 Omar participated in the Battle of Ohod. In the second phase of the Battle when Khalid ibn Walid's Cavalry In the second phase of the Battle when Khalid ibn Walid's Cavalry attacked Muslims at the rear changing the victory of Muslims to attacked Muslims at the rear changing the victory of Muslims to defeat, defeat, Rumors of Muhammad’s death were spread, many Muslim warriors Rumors of Muhammad’s death were spread, many Muslim warriors were routed from the battle field, were routed from the battle field, Omar too was initially routed, but hearing that Muhammad was still Omar too was initially routed, but hearing that Muhammad was still alive he joined to defend Muhammad to keep the Quraish army down alive he joined to defend Muhammad to keep the Quraish army down the hill.the hill.The Prophet, being in grave danger, was actually protected by:The Prophet, being in grave danger, was actually protected by:

AliAliAl-Muqdad andAl-Muqdad andfew Othersfew Others

Omar at the Trench EncounterOmar at the Trench Encounter

Omar was present in: Omar was present in: the Battle of the Trench the Battle of the Trench and also in the struggle against Banu Quraidha. and also in the struggle against Banu Quraidha.

Amr ibn Abd Wid crossed the DitchAmr ibn Abd Wid crossed the DitchAmr, bragging, challenges the MuslimsAmr, bragging, challenges the MuslimsNeither Omar, nor any other Muslim took the challenge except AliNeither Omar, nor any other Muslim took the challenge except AliAli ducks all Amr’s attemptsAli ducks all Amr’s attemptsExhausted, Amr falls to the groundExhausted, Amr falls to the groundAli on top of Amr, Ali offers Amr IslamAli on top of Amr, Ali offers Amr IslamAmr spits in the face of Ali, Ali finishes him offAmr spits in the face of Ali, Ali finishes him off

Quraish’s psychology is shatteredQuraish’s psychology is shattered

At HudaibiyaAt Hudaibiya

The treaty of Hudaibiya was such as to raise objections, The treaty of Hudaibiya was such as to raise objections, especially of Omar.especially of Omar.Omar objected over a clause of the treaty saying:Omar objected over a clause of the treaty saying:

that any citizen from Mecca entering Medina is eligible to be that any citizen from Mecca entering Medina is eligible to be returned back to Mecca (if they want), returned back to Mecca (if they want), while any Muslim from Medina entering Mecca is not eligible to be while any Muslim from Medina entering Mecca is not eligible to be returned to the Muslims, even if Muhammad requested. returned to the Muslims, even if Muhammad requested.

After the signing of the treaty, there was still great fury After the signing of the treaty, there was still great fury among the Muslims because they did not like the among the Muslims because they did not like the stipulations of the treaty. stipulations of the treaty. Muhammad, binding onto the Islamic ethic (fulfill every Muhammad, binding onto the Islamic ethic (fulfill every promise), ordered that Muslims do exactly as the treaty promise), ordered that Muslims do exactly as the treaty says. says.

Omar and the Hudaibiya TreatyOmar and the Hudaibiya Treaty

Omar, and a few Muslims, strongly objected to the treaty, Omar, and a few Muslims, strongly objected to the treaty, and even went on as far as regarding that Muhammad's decision and even went on as far as regarding that Muhammad's decision was wrong. was wrong. In compliance to the treaty, Muslims did not enter Mecca for In compliance to the treaty, Muslims did not enter Mecca for Omrah Omrah Many Muslims thereafter objected when Muhammad repeated Many Muslims thereafter objected when Muhammad repeated three times to perform their (Haj) rites there and then. three times to perform their (Haj) rites there and then.

Muhammad insisted that Muslims had been victorious. Muhammad insisted that Muslims had been victorious. Omar became worried the Prophet was displeased with him on Omar became worried the Prophet was displeased with him on account of his attitude.account of his attitude.Shortly after, revelations came out in support of the Prophet: Shortly after, revelations came out in support of the Prophet:

(Al-Fat’h, the victory: 48:1).(Al-Fat’h, the victory: 48:1).(Al-Fat’h, the victory: 48:18-19)(Al-Fat’h, the victory: 48:18-19)

See next slide:See next slide:

1515

Al-Fat’h, the victory: 48:1 and 48:18-19Al-Fat’h, the victory: 48:1 and 48:18-19

Verily We have granted thee a manifest Verily We have granted thee a manifest Victory ….Victory ….

…………

Allah's Good Pleasure was on the Allah's Good Pleasure was on the Believers when they swore Fealty to Believers when they swore Fealty to thee under the Tree: He knew what thee under the Tree: He knew what was in their hearts, and He sent down was in their hearts, and He sent down Tranquility to them; and He rewarded Tranquility to them; and He rewarded them with a speedy Victory;them with a speedy Victory;And many gains will they acquire And many gains will they acquire (besides): and Allah is Exalted in (besides): and Allah is Exalted in Power, Full of Wisdom.Power, Full of Wisdom.

�ح�ا ف�ت ��ك ل �ا ن ��ح ف�ت !ا #ن �ح�ا إ ف�ت ��ك ل �ا ن ��ح ف�ت !ا #ن إ�ا #ين �ام%ب #ين ….. …..م%ب

..… ..…

ع�ن# !ه% الل �ض#ي �ر ��ق�د ع�ن# ل !ه% الل �ض#ي �ر ��ق�د ل �#ذ إ �#ين �م%ؤ�م#ن #ذ� ال إ �#ين �م%ؤ�م#ن ال

��ح�ت ت ��ك #ع%ون �اي %ب �ح�ت� ي ت ��ك #ع%ون �اي %ب يم�ا �#م ف�ع�ل ة# �ج�ر م�ا الش! �#م ف�ع�ل ة# �ج�ر الش!

�ل ��ز ن� ف�أ �#ه#م %وب ق%ل ل� ف#ي ��ز ن� ف�أ �#ه#م %وب ق%ل ف#ي

��ه#م �ي ع�ل ��ة #ين ك �ه#م� الس! �ي ع�ل ��ة #ين ك الس!�ا ق�ر#يب �ح�ا ف�ت ��ه%م �اب ث

� �ا و�أ ق�ر#يب �ح�ا ف�ت ��ه%م �اب ث� و�أ

ة� �#ير �ث ك �#م ة� و�م�غ�ان �#ير �ث ك �#م و�م�غ�ان!ه% الل ��ان و�ك �ه�ا �خ%ذ%ون �أ ي !ه% الل ��ان و�ك �ه�ا �خ%ذ%ون �أ ي

ح�ك#يم�ا ا ح�ك#يم�ا ع�ز#يز� ا ع�ز#يز�

At KhaybarAt Khaybar

Omar was a part of the Muslim campaign to Omar was a part of the Muslim campaign to Khaybar. Khaybar.

Abu Bakr was given the leadership to conquer the Fort, Abu Bakr was given the leadership to conquer the Fort, but he failed to do sobut he failed to do soNext day Omar was given the same opportunity but he Next day Omar was given the same opportunity but he also failed to conquer italso failed to conquer itNext day Ali was given the same opportunity and his Next day Ali was given the same opportunity and his was an outstanding success, he soundly defeated the was an outstanding success, he soundly defeated the resistance.resistance.The rest of the 8 forts were soon captured under Ali’s The rest of the 8 forts were soon captured under Ali’s leadershipleadership

Fort of Khaybar’s Ruins NowadaysFort of Khaybar’s Ruins Nowadays

At the Conquest of MeccaAt the Conquest of Mecca

In 630 wIn 630 when Muslims rushed for the Conquest of hen Muslims rushed for the Conquest of Mecca, Omar was with them. Mecca, Omar was with them. Omar participated in the Battle of Hunain Omar participated in the Battle of Hunain He also was present at the Siege of Ta'if. He also was present at the Siege of Ta'if. He was part of the Muslim force in the campaign He was part of the Muslim force in the campaign of Tabuk under Muhammad's command of Tabuk under Muhammad's command It is reported that he gave half of his wealth for It is reported that he gave half of his wealth for the preparation of this expedition. the preparation of this expedition. He also participated in the farewell Haj of He also participated in the farewell Haj of Muhammad in 631.Muhammad in 631.

Ghadeer KhumGhadeer Khum

Following the Haj, the Prophet and multitude of others Following the Haj, the Prophet and multitude of others were on their way home, including Abu Bakr and Omar. were on their way home, including Abu Bakr and Omar. Juhfa was an intersection between Mecca and MedinaJuhfa was an intersection between Mecca and MedinaNear Juhfa, at an oasis called Ghadeer Khum, the Near Juhfa, at an oasis called Ghadeer Khum, the Prophet delivered a speechProphet delivered a speechThe Prophet stood on an elevation to be seen by the The Prophet stood on an elevation to be seen by the massive crowdmassive crowdHe took Ali with him, raising up both his and Ali’s armsHe took Ali with him, raising up both his and Ali’s armsHe gave a long speech, the highlight was:He gave a long speech, the highlight was:Ali is Appointed as Ali is Appointed as the Walithe Wali (in charge of the Ummah) (in charge of the Ummah) after the Prophetafter the Prophet

The Prophet’s Speech at Ghadeer KhumThe Prophet’s Speech at Ghadeer Khum

وااله من وال اللهم مواله Dعلي فهذا مواله كنت وااله من من وال اللهم مواله Dعلي فهذا مواله كنت منوأدر خذله من واخذل نصره من وانصر عاده من وأدر وعاد خذله من واخذل نصره من وانصر عاده من وعاد

دار حيثما معه دار الحق حيثما معه الحق

O' people, whosoever I am his leader, So is Ali to O' people, whosoever I am his leader, So is Ali to be his leaderbe his leader

O' lord, uphold him who upholds Ali, And antagonize him O' lord, uphold him who upholds Ali, And antagonize him who antagonizes Ali, And support him who supports Ali, who antagonizes Ali, And support him who supports Ali,

And impede him who impedes Ali, And let the truth be with And impede him who impedes Ali, And let the truth be with Ali wherever he goesAli wherever he goes

After the Speech in Ghadeer KhumAfter the Speech in Ghadeer Khum

Omar came forward congratulating Ali saying:Omar came forward congratulating Ali saying:

Hمؤمن Iل% ك ومولى �موالي ��حت أصب علي، يا �لك Nبخ Nبخ Hمؤمن Iل% ك ومولى �موالي ��حت أصب علي، يا �لك Nبخ Nبخومؤمنهومؤمنه

Congratulations, congratulations, O' Ali! You have Congratulations, congratulations, O' Ali! You have become my leader And the leader of every believer, become my leader And the leader of every believer, man or woman.man or woman.

Abu Bakr did likewiseAbu Bakr did likewise

The multitude of others came to congratulate Ali The multitude of others came to congratulate Ali before heading homebefore heading home

Ghadeer Khum NowadaysGhadeer Khum Nowadays

U'sama ExpeditionU'sama Expedition

The Prophet directed both Abu Bakr and Omar to be in the The Prophet directed both Abu Bakr and Omar to be in the expedition of U'sama. The Prophet then became feverish.expedition of U'sama. The Prophet then became feverish.Both Abu Bakr and Omar were to be under U'sama Both Abu Bakr and Omar were to be under U'sama leadership though U’sama was much younger than they.leadership though U’sama was much younger than they.U'sama was 18, and the Prophet chose him to lead the U'sama was 18, and the Prophet chose him to lead the expedition because of his capacity and outstanding expedition because of his capacity and outstanding leadershipleadershipNeither Abu Bakr nor Omar joined U'sama expedition, they Neither Abu Bakr nor Omar joined U'sama expedition, they did not listen to the Prophet, they lingered instead in did not listen to the Prophet, they lingered instead in Medina, Medina, Shi'a claim that both Abu Bakr and Omar figured the end Shi'a claim that both Abu Bakr and Omar figured the end of Muhammad was near, so they waited for the sake of the of Muhammad was near, so they waited for the sake of the Khilaafah after the Prophet.Khilaafah after the Prophet.

At the Death Bed of the ProphetAt the Death Bed of the Prophet

At the sick bed of the Prophet:At the sick bed of the Prophet:Omar was among those in the room. Upon hearing that Omar was among those in the room. Upon hearing that the Prophet had requested someone to write a Will for the Prophet had requested someone to write a Will for him, Omar hastily commanded:him, Omar hastily commanded:

%نا ب �ح�س الله كتاب وعندنا الوجع، غلبه النبي إن! %نا ب �ح�س الله كتاب وعندنا الوجع، غلبه النبي إن!Allah's Messenger is overwhelmed by his sickness: Allah's Messenger is overwhelmed by his sickness:

Suffice it we have Allah's book with us.Suffice it we have Allah's book with us.The Prophet dismissed everyone from his roomThe Prophet dismissed everyone from his roomThus a Will was effectively prevented Thus a Will was effectively prevented

The Death of the ProphetThe Death of the Prophet

When Muhammad died Muslims gathered in Al-Masjid al-Nabawi When Muhammad died Muslims gathered in Al-Masjid al-Nabawi with sobs and cries and a feeling of despondency. with sobs and cries and a feeling of despondency. Abu Bakr came from his house at al-Sunh (suburb of Medina) on a Abu Bakr came from his house at al-Sunh (suburb of Medina) on a horse. horse. He dismounted and entered the Prophet's Mosque, but did not speak He dismounted and entered the Prophet's Mosque, but did not speak to anyone until he entered upon A’isha. to anyone until he entered upon A’isha. In Sunni accounts he went straight to Muhammad In Sunni accounts he went straight to Muhammad

Who was covered with Yemeni cloth. Who was covered with Yemeni cloth. He then uncovered Muhammad's face and bowed over him and kissed He then uncovered Muhammad's face and bowed over him and kissed him and wept, him and wept,

Ali and a few of Benu Hashim were there in charge.Ali and a few of Benu Hashim were there in charge.Theirs was the duty and privilege to conduct the funeral rites and the Theirs was the duty and privilege to conduct the funeral rites and the internment of the body. internment of the body.

In the Masjid: In the Masjid:


Omar was making a speech to the people with an oath:Omar was making a speech to the people with an oath:““By Allah, he is not dead but has gone to his Lord as Musa By Allah, he is not dead but has gone to his Lord as Musa

ibn Imraan went and remained hidden from his people for ibn Imraan went and remained hidden from his people for forty days. forty days.

Musa returned after it was said that he had died. Musa returned after it was said that he had died. By Allah, the Messenger of Allah will come back and he will By Allah, the Messenger of Allah will come back and he will

cut off the hands and legs of those who claim his death." cut off the hands and legs of those who claim his death." Abu Bakr arrived and said,Abu Bakr arrived and said,

Sit down, O Omar!Sit down, O Omar!But Omar refused to sit down. But Omar refused to sit down. However, the people came to Abu Bakr and left Omar However, the people came to Abu Bakr and left Omar alone. alone. Abu Bakr confirmed the death of the Prophet.Abu Bakr confirmed the death of the Prophet.


Muhammad died on 8 June 632. Muhammad died on 8 June 632. Omar was full of grief upon hearing the news, Omar was full of grief upon hearing the news, Omar, the devoted disciple, could not accept the reality that the Omar, the devoted disciple, could not accept the reality that the "Messenger of God" has died. "Messenger of God" has died. It is said that Omar promised to strike the head of any man who It is said that Omar promised to strike the head of any man who would say that Muhammad died. would say that Muhammad died. At this point Abu Bakr is reported to have come out to the Muslim At this point Abu Bakr is reported to have come out to the Muslim community and gave his speech which included:community and gave his speech which included:

"Whoever worshipped Muhammad, let them know that Muhammad is "Whoever worshipped Muhammad, let them know that Muhammad is dead, dead,

and whoever worshipped Allah, let them know that Allah never dies."and whoever worshipped Allah, let them know that Allah never dies."Abu Bakr then recited verses from the QuranAbu Bakr then recited verses from the Quran

Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida بني بني سقيفة سقيفة ساعدةساعدة

After Muhammad's death leaders of the Ansaar met in a After Muhammad's death leaders of the Ansaar met in a resting place called Saqifa, resting place called Saqifa, There was a total of 6 Saqifas in Medina, the one Al-There was a total of 6 Saqifas in Medina, the one Al-Ansaar met in is called Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida Ansaar met in is called Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida بني بني سقيفة سقيفة.. ساعدةساعدةThe Ansaars met to discuss whom they would support as The Ansaars met to discuss whom they would support as their new leader after the Prophet, as if they had their new leader after the Prophet, as if they had forgotten about Ghadeer Khum. forgotten about Ghadeer Khum. There were many arguments and high emotions.There were many arguments and high emotions.All this and the Prophet has not been given the funeral All this and the Prophet has not been given the funeral rites as of yet!rites as of yet!The news of the meeting was given to Abu Bakr and The news of the meeting was given to Abu Bakr and OmarOmar

At Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida At Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida

In this highly charged atmosphere at the Saqifa, Abu Bakr argued that In this highly charged atmosphere at the Saqifa, Abu Bakr argued that the Prophet had already said the Khalifas after him are from Quraishthe Prophet had already said the Khalifas after him are from QuraishThus the Ansaars were excludedThus the Ansaars were excludedThe Ansaars consisted of Aus and KhazrajThe Ansaars consisted of Aus and Khazraj

Eventually the Aus members voted for Abu BakrEventually the Aus members voted for Abu BakrThe Khazraj under their leader Sa’ad Ibn Abada The Khazraj under their leader Sa’ad Ibn Abada عبادة بن عبادة سعد بن refused refused سعدhim.him.Sa’ad Ibn Abada even left Medina to Syria, refusing to give his pledge, Sa’ad Ibn Abada even left Medina to Syria, refusing to give his pledge, where it is said he died mysteriously (apparently murdered)where it is said he died mysteriously (apparently murdered)

At the same time Ali and many others of Benu Hashim were busy At the same time Ali and many others of Benu Hashim were busy preparing for the funeral rites of the Prophet (pbuh)preparing for the funeral rites of the Prophet (pbuh)The needs of the moment was first and foremost to take care of the The needs of the moment was first and foremost to take care of the Prophet (pbuh).Prophet (pbuh).

The Shi’a Attitude of the SaqifaThe Shi’a Attitude of the Saqifa

Shi’a criticize Abu Bakr and Omar for forsaking the funeral of Shi’a criticize Abu Bakr and Omar for forsaking the funeral of Muhammad to attend the political gathering, Muhammad to attend the political gathering,

They believe that Muhammad had already appointed Ali in They believe that Muhammad had already appointed Ali in his lifetime as his successor (Ghadeer Khum). his lifetime as his successor (Ghadeer Khum).

This view portrays Abu Bakr and Omar as plotters in a This view portrays Abu Bakr and Omar as plotters in a political coup against Ali. political coup against Ali.

Madelung Madelung (in his book: Succession to Muhammad)(in his book: Succession to Muhammad) portrays portrays Abu Bakr and Omar as political opportunists whose Abu Bakr and Omar as political opportunists whose character as the founders of Sunni Islam has been character as the founders of Sunni Islam has been extensively embellished by subsequent kings and emperors extensively embellished by subsequent kings and emperors (Khalifas) making it difficult to openly criticize him(Khalifas) making it difficult to openly criticize him

The Architect of the KhilaafahThe Architect of the Khilaafah

Omar's political genius first manifested as the architect of the Omar's political genius first manifested as the architect of the Khilaafah after Muhammad died in 8 June.Khilaafah after Muhammad died in 8 June.While the funeral of Muhammad was being arranged:While the funeral of Muhammad was being arranged:

a group of Muhammad's followers, the Ansaar, organized a a group of Muhammad's followers, the Ansaar, organized a meeting on the outskirts of the city, meeting on the outskirts of the city, effectively locking out the Muhaajirs (The Emigrants) including effectively locking out the Muhaajirs (The Emigrants) including Omar.Omar.Omar found out about this meeting at Saqifa Benu Sa’idah, and Omar found out about this meeting at Saqifa Benu Sa’idah, and taking with him two other Muhaajirs, Abu Bakr and Abu Ubaida, taking with him two other Muhaajirs, Abu Bakr and Abu Ubaida, They proceeded to the meeting, presumably to head off the They proceeded to the meeting, presumably to head off the Ansaars’ plans for political domination. Ansaars’ plans for political domination. Arriving at the meeting Omar was faced with a unified community Arriving at the meeting Omar was faced with a unified community of tribes from the Ansaar who refused to accept the leadership of of tribes from the Ansaar who refused to accept the leadership of the Muhaajirs.the Muhaajirs.

The Architect of the KhilaafahThe Architect of the Khilaafah

However Omar was undeterred in his belief the Khilaafah should be However Omar was undeterred in his belief the Khilaafah should be under the control of the Muhajiroon.under the control of the Muhajiroon.Despite the Khazraj being in disagreement, after strained negotiations Despite the Khazraj being in disagreement, after strained negotiations lasting up to many hours, Omar:lasting up to many hours, Omar:

Brilliantly divided the Ansaar (who were united) into their old warring Brilliantly divided the Ansaar (who were united) into their old warring factions of Aus and Khazraj tribes, andfactions of Aus and Khazraj tribes, andThen Omar resolved the divisions by placing his hand on that of Abu Then Omar resolved the divisions by placing his hand on that of Abu Bakr as a unity candidate for those gathered in the Saqifa, Bakr as a unity candidate for those gathered in the Saqifa,

Most those gathered at the Saqifa followed suit, with the exception of the Most those gathered at the Saqifa followed suit, with the exception of the Khazraj tribe and their leader, Sa‘ad ibn Ubadah. Khazraj tribe and their leader, Sa‘ad ibn Ubadah. The Khazraj tribe is said to have posed no significant threat:The Khazraj tribe is said to have posed no significant threat:

as there were sufficient men of war from the Medina tribesas there were sufficient men of war from the Medina tribesto immediately organize them into a military bodyguard for Abu Bakr.to immediately organize them into a military bodyguard for Abu Bakr.

3333

Wilferd Madelung CommentsWilferd Madelung Comments

The creation of the Khilaafah was one of Omar's most The creation of the Khilaafah was one of Omar's most enduring legacies, its significance to world history is hard to enduring legacies, its significance to world history is hard to overestimate. overestimate. Dr. Wilferd Madelung (in his book: the Succession to Dr. Wilferd Madelung (in his book: the Succession to Muhammad) summarizing Omar's contribution:Muhammad) summarizing Omar's contribution:Omar judged the outcome of the Saqifa to be a falta Omar judged the outcome of the Saqifa to be a falta فلتهفلته ““a a precipitate and ill-considered deal”precipitate and ill-considered deal” because: because:

of the absence of most of the prominent Muhajiroon, of the absence of most of the prominent Muhajiroon, including the Prophet's own family and clan, including the Prophet's own family and clan, whose participation was vital for any legitimate consultation (Shura, whose participation was vital for any legitimate consultation (Shura, mushwara). mushwara).

It was, (Omar warned the community), to be no precedent for the future. It was, (Omar warned the community), to be no precedent for the future. Yet Omar also defended the outcome, claiming that the Muslims were Yet Omar also defended the outcome, claiming that the Muslims were longing for Abu Bakr as for no one else. longing for Abu Bakr as for no one else.


Omar apologized, moreover, that the Muhajiroon present Omar apologized, moreover, that the Muhajiroon present were forced to press for an immediate oath of allegiance were forced to press for an immediate oath of allegiance

since the Ansaar could not have been trusted to wait for a since the Ansaar could not have been trusted to wait for a legitimate consultation legitimate consultation and might have proceeded to elect one of their own after the and might have proceeded to elect one of their own after the departure of the Meccans.departure of the Meccans.

Another reason for Omar to censure the Saqifa meeting Another reason for Omar to censure the Saqifa meeting as a falta as a falta فلتهفلته was no doubt its turbulent and undignified was no doubt its turbulent and undignified end, end,

as he and his followers jumped upon the sick Khazraji leader Sa'd as he and his followers jumped upon the sick Khazraji leader Sa'd bin Ubada bin Ubada in order to teach him a lesson, if not to kill him, in order to teach him a lesson, if not to kill him, for daring to challenge the sole right of Quraish to rule. for daring to challenge the sole right of Quraish to rule.


This violent break-up of the meeting indicates, moreover, This violent break-up of the meeting indicates, moreover, that the Ansaar were not all swayed by the wisdom and eloquence that the Ansaar were not all swayed by the wisdom and eloquence of Abu Bakr's speech of Abu Bakr's speech nor to have accepted him as the best choice for the succession, as nor to have accepted him as the best choice for the succession, as suggested by Caetani. suggested by Caetani.

There would have been no sense in beating up the There would have been no sense in beating up the Khazraji chief, Sa’ad Ibn Ubada, if everybody had come Khazraji chief, Sa’ad Ibn Ubada, if everybody had come around to swearing allegiance to Omar's candidate. around to swearing allegiance to Omar's candidate.

Therefore, a substantial number of the Ansaar, presumably of Therefore, a substantial number of the Ansaar, presumably of Khazraj in particular, must have refused to follow the lead of the Khazraj in particular, must have refused to follow the lead of the Muhajireen.Muhajireen.

The Events AfterwardsThe Events Afterwards

According to various sources, (especially the Shi'a) and some western According to various sources, (especially the Shi'a) and some western scholars: scholars:

Omar and Abu Bakr had mounted a political coup against Ali at the Omar and Abu Bakr had mounted a political coup against Ali at the Saqifa Saqifa

According to one version of narrations in primary sources, Omar and Abu According to one version of narrations in primary sources, Omar and Abu Bakr are also said to have used force to secure the allegiance from Ali Bakr are also said to have used force to secure the allegiance from Ali and his party. and his party. It has been reported that after Ali's refusal to pay homage, Abu Bakr sent It has been reported that after Ali's refusal to pay homage, Abu Bakr sent Omar with an armed contingent to Fatima’s house where Ali and his Omar with an armed contingent to Fatima’s house where Ali and his supporters are said to have gathered. supporters are said to have gathered. Omar is reported to have threatened those in the House that unless Ali Omar is reported to have threatened those in the House that unless Ali succumbed to Abu Bakr, succumbed to Abu Bakr,

he would set the House on fire, he would set the House on fire, with its inhabitants ablaze,with its inhabitants ablaze,and under these circumstances Ali was forced to capitulate.and under these circumstances Ali was forced to capitulate.

Shi’a Version of the EventsShi’a Version of the Events

This version of events, fully accepted by Shi'a scholars, is This version of events, fully accepted by Shi'a scholars, is generally rejected by Sunni scholars generally rejected by Sunni scholars

who in view of other reports in their literature believe that Ali who in view of other reports in their literature believe that Ali gave oath of allegiance to Abu Bakr though reminding him gave oath of allegiance to Abu Bakr though reminding him that the Khilaafah was his, that the Khilaafah was his, while others believe that Ali was reluctant to swear while others believe that Ali was reluctant to swear allegiance to Abu Bakr and gave his allegiance six months allegiance to Abu Bakr and gave his allegiance six months later after the death of his wife Fatima.later after the death of his wife Fatima.

Western scholars tend to agree that Ali believed he had a clear Western scholars tend to agree that Ali believed he had a clear mandate to politically succeed Muhammad, mandate to politically succeed Muhammad,

but offer differing views as to the extent of use of force by but offer differing views as to the extent of use of force by Omar in an attempt to intimidate Ali and his supporters, Omar in an attempt to intimidate Ali and his supporters, for instance, Dr. Wilferd Madelung in his book The for instance, Dr. Wilferd Madelung in his book The Succession to Muhammad, discounts the possibility of use Succession to Muhammad, discounts the possibility of use of force and argues that:of force and argues that:

Dr. Wilferd Madelung Argues:Dr. Wilferd Madelung Argues:

Isolated reports of use of force against Ali and Isolated reports of use of force against Ali and Benu Hashim Benu Hashim (who unanimously refused to swear (who unanimously refused to swear allegiance)allegiance) for six months are probably to be for six months are probably to be discounted. discounted. Abu Bakr no doubt was wise enough to:Abu Bakr no doubt was wise enough to:

Restrain Omar from any violence against them, Restrain Omar from any violence against them, Well realizing that this would inevitably provoke the Well realizing that this would inevitably provoke the sense of solidarity of majority of Abdul Manaaf, whose sense of solidarity of majority of Abdul Manaaf, whose acquiescence he needed. acquiescence he needed. Abu Bakr’s policy was rather not isolating Benu Hashim Abu Bakr’s policy was rather not isolating Benu Hashim as far as possible.as far as possible.

Omar and Initiation of KhilaafahOmar and Initiation of Khilaafah

1. The Prophet diesThe Prophet dies

2. Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida

3. Argue with Ansaar

4. Give Allegiance to Abu Bakr

5. Ali preparing funeral rites

6. Khilaafah announced in Mosque

Omar during Abu Bakr's EraOmar during Abu Bakr's Era

During Abu Bakr's short reign as Khalifa he was mostly occupied with During Abu Bakr's short reign as Khalifa he was mostly occupied with Ridda wars, Omar was one of his chief advisers and secretary. Ridda wars, Omar was one of his chief advisers and secretary. Omar along with Khalid ibn Walid, probably was the architect and Omar along with Khalid ibn Walid, probably was the architect and main strategist behind the collapse of rebellion in Arabia. main strategist behind the collapse of rebellion in Arabia. Though at the beginning Omar was opposing the military operations Though at the beginning Omar was opposing the military operations against the rebel tribes: against the rebel tribes:

In hope of their support in case of invasion by the Romans or Persians In hope of their support in case of invasion by the Romans or Persians Later, however, Omar seems to agree with Abu Bakr's warlike strategies to Later, however, Omar seems to agree with Abu Bakr's warlike strategies to crush rebellion. crush rebellion.

By late 632 Khalid ibn Walid had successfully subdued the rebels. By late 632 Khalid ibn Walid had successfully subdued the rebels. Later during his own reign, Omar would mostly adopt the policyLater during his own reign, Omar would mostly adopt the policy

of avoiding wars and consolidating his power in the conquered landof avoiding wars and consolidating his power in the conquered landrather than expanding his empire through continuous warfare. rather than expanding his empire through continuous warfare.

4141

Omar and KhalidOmar and Khalid

Prior to Battle of Yamama, Omar pressured Abu Bakr to remove Prior to Battle of Yamama, Omar pressured Abu Bakr to remove Khalid, who had killed Malik ibn Nuwayrah Khalid, who had killed Malik ibn Nuwayrah نويره بن نويره مالك بن even , even ,مالكthough Malik proclaimed his Islam. But Khalid killed him anyway.though Malik proclaimed his Islam. But Khalid killed him anyway.Khalid killed Malik because he was after his wife Layla, a renowned Khalid killed Malik because he was after his wife Layla, a renowned beauty in Arabia. beauty in Arabia. In Islam, in such circumstance, a women is to wait for a few months In Islam, in such circumstance, a women is to wait for a few months before she can marry again. before she can marry again. This is so in case she was pregnant through her previous husband. This is so in case she was pregnant through her previous husband. But Khalid married her the same night he killed her husband But Khalid married her the same night he killed her husband ─No ─No waitingwaiting..While Abu Bakr refused to accept Omar's opinion, Omar continued While Abu Bakr refused to accept Omar's opinion, Omar continued insisting for Khalid’s removal even after Khalid's conquest of Iraq. insisting for Khalid’s removal even after Khalid's conquest of Iraq. This became a major issue between Abu Bakr and Omar and a This became a major issue between Abu Bakr and Omar and a spacious chapter in Islamic history. spacious chapter in Islamic history.

4242

The AppointmentThe Appointment

Abu Bakr appointed Omar as his successor prior to his death in Abu Bakr appointed Omar as his successor prior to his death in 634. He was confirmed in the office thereafter.634. He was confirmed in the office thereafter.Due to his strict and autocratic nature, Omar was not a very Due to his strict and autocratic nature, Omar was not a very popular figure among the notables of Medina and members of popular figure among the notables of Medina and members of Majlis al Shura, Majlis al Shura, Accordingly succession of Omar was initially discouraged by high Accordingly succession of Omar was initially discouraged by high ranking companions of Abu Bakr.ranking companions of Abu Bakr.Nevertheless, Abu Bakr decided to make Omar his successor. Nevertheless, Abu Bakr decided to make Omar his successor. Omar, still was well known for Omar, still was well known for

his extraordinary will power, his extraordinary will power, Intelligence and political astuteness, Intelligence and political astuteness, impartiality, and justice impartiality, and justice and care for poor and underprivileged people.and care for poor and underprivileged people.

Omar was Known for: Omar was Known for:

IntelligenceIntelligence

Political astutenessPolitical astutenessImpartiality, and justiceImpartiality, and justice

Care for poor and Care for poor and underprivileged underprivileged

Extraordinary will powerExtraordinary will power


Abu Bakr is reported to have said to the high-Abu Bakr is reported to have said to the high-ranking advisers:ranking advisers:

Omar's strictness was there because of my softness Omar's strictness was there because of my softness But when the weight of Khilaafah is over his shoulders But when the weight of Khilaafah is over his shoulders he will remain no longer strict. he will remain no longer strict.

If I will be asked by God to whom I have If I will be asked by God to whom I have appointed my successor, appointed my successor,

I will tell him that I have appointed the best man among I will tell him that I have appointed the best man among your men.your men.

Abu Bakr was fully aware of Omar's power and Abu Bakr was fully aware of Omar's power and ability to succeed him. ability to succeed him.


Succession of Omar in Khilaafah was thus not as Succession of Omar in Khilaafah was thus not as troublesome as any of the others. troublesome as any of the others. His succession was perhapsHis succession was perhaps

one of the smoothest transitions to power from one authority to one of the smoothest transitions to power from one authority to another in the Muslim lands.another in the Muslim lands. It was an appointment, it was a strategic decision.It was an appointment, it was a strategic decision.

Abu Bakr before his death called Uthman to write his will Abu Bakr before his death called Uthman to write his will in which he declared Omar his successor. in which he declared Omar his successor.

In his will he instructed Omar to continue the conquests on Iraq In his will he instructed Omar to continue the conquests on Iraq and Syrian fronts.and Syrian fronts.

Abu Bakr's decision would prove to be crucial in the Abu Bakr's decision would prove to be crucial in the strengthening of the nascent Islamic empire.strengthening of the nascent Islamic empire.

In ConclusionIn Conclusion

Omar from the Hijrah to his KhilaafahOmar from the Hijrah to his Khilaafah Omar present at Badr, Ohod, the Ditch, and Omar present at Badr, Ohod, the Ditch, and othersothers At Hudaibiya then KhaybarAt Hudaibiya then Khaybar At the death bed of the ProphetAt the death bed of the Prophet The architect at Saqifa of Benu Sa’idaThe architect at Saqifa of Benu Sa’ida Succeeds in shifting Khilaafah to MuhajiroonSucceeds in shifting Khilaafah to Muhajiroon Circumstances of the Saqifa and aftermathCircumstances of the Saqifa and aftermath Appointment as Khalifa after Abu BakrAppointment as Khalifa after Abu Bakr

Finally we quote the Quran:Finally we quote the Quran:

By the Token of Time By the Token of Time

Verily Man is in loss,Verily Man is in loss,

Except those who Except those who believe and do good believe and do good works, and exhort one works, and exhort one another to Truth and another to Truth and exhort one another to exhort one another to patience.patience.

ح�من# الر! الله# # م �#س ح�من# ب الر! الله# # م �#س ب

# ح#يم #الر! ح#يم الر!

�ع�ص�ر# �ع�ص�ر#و�ال و�ال

# ا #ن! # إ ا #ن! رH الالإ �خ%س �ف#ي ل �ان �رH نس �خ%س �ف#ي ل �ان �نس

# #إ %وا الالإ و�ع�م#ل %وا آم�ن �!ذ#ين %وا ال و�ع�م#ل %وا آم�ن �!ذ#ين ال�و�اص�و�ا و�ت #ح�ات# �و�اص�و�ا الص!ال و�ت #ح�ات# الص!ال

�ر# #الص!ب ب �و�اص�و�ا و�ت �ح�ق_ #ال �ر# ب #الص!ب ب �و�اص�و�ا و�ت �ح�ق_ #ال ب

THANK YOUTHANK YOU

Be in Allah’s CareBe in Allah’s Care

Dr. A.S. HashimDr. A.S. Hashim

Documents

Omar (r) From Hijrah to Khilaafah