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Umar

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Umar ibn al-Khattab was a very influential leader in early Islamic history. He served as the second Rashidun caliph from August 634 until 644.

The entrance of Caliph Umar (581?-644) into Jerusalem, 638- colored engraving, 19th century.
The entrance of Caliph Umar (581?-644) into Jerusalem, 638- colored engraving, 19th century.

Before he became a leader, he was a senior companion of the prophet Muhammad. He was also Muhammad's father-in-law. Many historians believe he was one of the most powerful caliphs ever. His leadership helped the Islamic world grow very quickly beyond Arabia.

Signature Believed To Be Of ʿUmar B. Al-Khaṭṭāb
Signature Believed To Be Of ʿUmar B. Al-Khaṭṭāb

Umar's journey to Islam was quite surprising. In his youth, he lived in Mecca and tended his father's camels. He was a tall and physically strong man. He was also a famous wrestler and a skilled horse rider. He could read and write, which was not common then. At first, he strongly opposed the new faith of Islam. He even wanted to stop Muhammad from preaching.

Everything changed for Umar in the year 616. He went to his sister's house to confront her about her new beliefs. After a heated argument, he read verses from the Quran. These words moved him deeply. He realized that Muhammad was indeed a messenger. He then accepted Islam at the age of 39.

Tombstone of Umar (r.a) by mohammad adil rais
Tombstone of Umar (r.a) by mohammad adil rais

As a leader, Umar helped expand the reach of the caliphate. His rule saw the conquest of the Sasanian Empire. His armies also took more than two-thirds of the Byzantine Empire. He helped conquer Persia within two years, between 642 and 644. Umar is also credited with starting the Hijri Calendar. He even helped allow Jewish people to worship in Jerusalem.

First Islamic coins by caliph Uthman-mohammad adil rais
First Islamic coins by caliph Uthman-mohammad adil rais

People hold different views about Umar today. In Sunni Islamic tradition, he is seen as a very just ruler. He is considered a great example of virtue. However, in the Twelver Shia tradition, he is viewed negatively. His life ended in 644 when he was assassinated by Abu Lu'lu'a Firuz. Despite this, his impact on history remains huge.

Tombstone of Umar (r.a) by mohammad adil rais
Tombstone of Umar (r.a) by mohammad adil rais
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File:Signature Believed To Be Of ʿUmar B. Al-Khaṭṭāb.png
Signature Believed To Be Of ʿUmar B....
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File:The entrance of Caliph Umar (581?-644) into Jerusalem, 638- colored engraving, 19th century..jpg
The entrance of Caliph Umar (581?-644)...
File:Tarikhuna bi-uslub qasasi-The Conspiracy to kill Umar.jpg
Tarikhuna bi-uslub qasasi-The Conspiracy...
File:Tombstone of Umar (r.a) by mohammad adil rais.JPG
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