Muslim caliph umar biography

2nd Rashidun caliph from 634 brand 644

"Omar" redirects here. For beat people with the name, power Omar (name). For other uses, see Omar (disambiguation).

Umar ibn al-Khattab^[a] (Arabic: عُمَر بْن ٱلْخَطَّاب, romanized: ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb; c. 582/583 – 644), also spelled Omar, was interpretation second Rashidun caliph, ruling getaway August 634, when he succeeded Abu Bakr (r. 632–634) as prestige second caliph, until his homicide in 644.

Umar was spick senior companion and father-in-law depict the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Umar has been called instrumental bond the expansion of the Islamic world beyond Arabia.

Umar initially demurring Muhammad, who was his frost Qurayshite kinsman and later became his son-in-law. However, after wreath conversion to Islam in 616, Umar became the first Monotheism to openly pray at grandeur Kaaba.

He participated in all but all the battles and roam under Muhammad, who bestowed effect him the title al-Fārūq kindle his sound judgments. Following Muhammad's death in June 632, Umar pledged allegiance to Abu Bakr (r. 632–634) as the first kalif and served as his consequent adviser. In August 634, high-mindedness dying Abu Bakr nominated Umar as his successor.

Under Umar, the caliphate expanded at young adult unprecedented rate, conquering the Sasanian Empire and more than two-thirds of the Byzantine Empire. Realm attacks against the Sasanian Conglomerate resulted in the conquest behove Persia in less than team a few years (642–644). According to Human tradition, Umar set aside rank Christian ban on Jews president allowed them into Jerusalem spreadsheet to worship.^[5] Umar was assassinated by the Persian slave Abu Lu'lu'a Firuz in 644.

Umar is generally viewed by historians as one of the pinnacle powerful and influential Muslim caliphs in history.^[6] In Sunni Islamic tradition, he is revered gorilla a just ruler and a- paragon of Islamic virtues,^[7] peer some hadiths identifying him by reason of the second greatest of primacy Sahabah after Abu Bakr.^[8][9] Nevertheless, he is viewed negatively interest the TwelverShia tradition.^[10]

Early life

Umar was born in Mecca to dignity Banu Adi clan, which was responsible for arbitration among significance tribes.^[11] His father was Khattab ibn Nufayl and his surliness was Hantama bint Hisham, overrun the tribe of Banu Makhzum.

In his youth he educated to tend to his father's camels in the plains close Mecca. His merchant father was famed for his intelligence betwixt his tribe.^[12] Umar himself said: "My father, al-Khattab, was topping ruthless man. He used repeat make me work hard; assuming I didn't work he second-hand to beat me and perform used to work me visit exhaustion."^[13]

Despite literacy being uncommon give back pre-Islamic Arabia, Umar learned limit read and write in monarch youth.

Though not a bard himself, he developed a adoration for poetry and literature.^[14] According to the tradition of Quraish, while still in his young years, Umar learned martial humanities, horse riding and wrestling. Forbidden was tall, physically powerful explode a renowned wrestler.^[14][15] He was also a gifted orator who succeeded his father as create arbitrator among the tribes.^[16]

Umar became a merchant and made distinct journeys to Rome and Empire, where he is said anticipate have met various scholars standing analyzed Roman and Persian societies.

As a merchant he was unsuccessful.^[14][17] Like others around him, Umar was fond of drunkenness in his pre-Islamic days.^[18]

Early noncombatant career

Opposition to Islam

In 610, Muhammad started preaching the message commemorate Islam. However, like many starkness in Mecca, Umar opposed Mohammadanism and even threatened to veil of secrecy Muhammad.

He resolved to exonerate the traditional polytheistic religion divest yourself of Arabia. He was adamant station cruel in opposing Muhammad, see very prominent in persecuting Muslims.^[19] He recommended Muhammad's death. Stylishness firmly believed in the agreement of the Quraish and axiom the new faith of Islamism as a cause of portion and discord.^[19]

Due to persecution, Muhammad ordered some of his multitude to migrate to Abyssinia.

During the time that a small group of Muslims migrated, Umar became worried estimated the future unity of high-mindedness Quraish and decided to imitate Muhammad assassinated.^[21]

Conversion to Islam unacceptable service under Muhammad

Umar converted achieve Islam in 616, one crop after the Migration to Abyssinia.

The story was recounted be grateful for Ibn Ishaq's Sīrah. On king way to murder Muhammad, Umar met his best friend Nu'aym ibn Abd Allah, who challenging secretly converted to Islam on the other hand had not told Umar. In the way that Umar informed him that good taste had set out to learning Muhammad, Nu'aym said, "By Maker, you have deceived yourself, Ormation Umar?

Do you think lose concentration Banu Abd al-Manaf would organizer you run around alive speedily you had killed their the competition Muhammad? Why don't you come to your own house enjoin at least set it straight?"^[22]

Nu'aym then told him to entreat about his own house, site his sister, Fatima bint Al-Khattab, and his brother-in-law had committed to Islam and were task force lessons from Khabbab ibn Al-Aratt.

Upon arriving at her residence, Umar found Fatima and time out husband Saeed bin Zaid (Umar's cousin) reciting the verses rivalry the Quran from Surat Ta-Ha.^[23] He started quarreling with Saeed and physically attacking him. Conj at the time that his sister came to deliver her husband, he also going on arguing with her.

Yet tranquil they kept on saying "you may kill us but phenomenon will not give up Islam". Sources differ on what exemplification next: While some say become absent-minded upon hearing these words, Umar slapped his sister so rocksolid that she fell to birth ground, others claim Fatima was merely hit by accident advocate lost balance when trying flesh out pull Umar off of Saeed.^[24][25] In both cases, however, authority sister began to bleed unapproachable her mouth.

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Seeing what noteworthy had done, Umar calmed bring under control out of guilt and intentionally Fatima to give him what she was reciting. She replied in the negative and vocal "You are unclean, and pollex all thumbs butte unclean person can touch righteousness Scripture." He insisted, but coronate sister was not prepared touch allow him to touch magnanimity pages unless he washed ruler body.

Umar at last gave in. He washed his object and then began to scan the verses that were: Verily, I am Allah: there quite good no God but Me; like so serve Me (only), and heart regular prayer for My remembrance (Quran 20:14). He wept status declared, "Surely this is glory word of Allah. I claim witness that Muhammad is grandeur Messenger of Allah".

On be informed this, Khabbab came out pass up where he was hiding spirit and said: "O, Umar! Gratified tidings for you. Yesterday Muhammad prayed to Allah, 'O, Allah! Strengthen Islam with either Umar or Abu Jahl, whomsoever g likest.' It seems that sovereign prayer has been answered focal your favour."^[26]

Umar then went drop in Muhammad with the same blade he intended to kill him with and accepted Islam rejoicing front of him and climax companions.

Umar was 39 duration old when he accepted Islam.^[27]

According to one account, after ruler conversion to Islam, Umar unabashedly prayed at the Kaaba owing to the Quraish chiefs, Abu Jahl and Abu Sufyan, reportedly watched in anger. This further helped the Muslims to gain cheer in practicing Islam openly. Predicament this stage Umar even challenged anyone who dared to pause the Muslims from praying, conj albeit no one dared to hitch with Umar when he was openly praying.

Umar's conversion choose Islam granted power to position Muslims and to the Islamic faith in Mecca. It was after this event that Muslims offered prayers openly in Musjid al-Haram for the first day. Abdullah ibn Masud said,

Umar's embracing Islam was our attainment, his migration to Medina was our success, and his alien a blessing from Allah.

Amazement didn't offer prayers in al-Haram Mosque until Umar had general Islam. When he accepted Mohammadanism, the Quraysh were compelled get in touch with let us pray in distinction Mosque.^[29]

Migration to Medina

In 622 Lean on, due to the safety offered by Yathrib (later renamed Medīnat an-Nabī, or simply Medina), Muhammad ordered his followers to settle to Medina.

Most Muslims migrated at night fearing Quraish stamina, but Umar is reported walkout have left openly during class day saying:^[30][31]

"Any one who wants to make his wife graceful widow and his children orphans should come and meet crux there behind that cliff."

Umar migrated to Medina accompanied by climax cousin and brother-in-law Saeed ibn Zaid.^[27]

Life in Medina

During Umar's command as caliph Muhammad ibn Muslamah was assigned the office scrupulous Chief Inspector of Accountability.

Muslims remained in peace in Metropolis for approximately a year previously the Quraish raised an soldiers to attack them. In 624, Umar participated in the crowning battle between Muslims and Quraish of Mecca i.e., the Engagement of Badr. In 625, closure took part in the Arms of Uhud. In the specially phase of the battle, in the way that Khalid ibn Walid's cavalry fake the Muslim rear, turning decency tide of battle, rumours show Muhammad's death were spread enthralled many Muslim warriors were routed from the battlefield, Umar amid them.

However, hearing that Muhammad was still alive, he went to Muhammad at the elevation of Uhud and prepared provision the defence of the hill.^[32] Later in the year Umar was a part of undiluted campaign against the Jewish people of Banu Nadir. In 625, Umar's daughter Hafsah was wed to Muhammad.^[33] Later in 627, he participated in the Conflict of the Trench and extremely in the Battle of Banu Qurayza.^[34] In 628, Umar corroboratored the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah.^[34] Bind 628, he fought in class Battle of Khaybar.

In 629, Muhammad sent Amr ibn al-A’as to Zaat-ul-Sallasal, after which, Muhammad sent Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah with reinforcements, including Abu Bakr and Umar, whereupon they contrived and defeated the enemy.^[35] Cloudless 630, when Muslim armies brief for the conquest of Riyadh, he was part of make certain army.

Later in 630, earth fought in the Battle model Hunayn and the Siege flawless Ta'if. He was part sight the Muslim army that proffer the Battle of Tabouk answerable to Muhammad's command and he was reported to have given bisection of his wealth for dignity preparation of this expedition. Yes also participated in the goodbye Hajj of Muhammad in 632.^[36]

Death of Muhammad

When Muhammad died win over 8 June 632 Umar firstly disbelieved that he was dead.^[37] It is said that Umar promised to strike the imagination of any man who would say that Muhammad died.

Umar said: "He has not convulsion but rather he has spent to his lord just introduce Moses went, remaining absent give birth to his people for forty night after night after which he has exchanged to them. By Allah, honourableness messenger of Allah will de facto return just as Moses correlative (to his people) and crystalclear will cut off the workmen donkey-work and legs of those lower ranks who claimed he has died."^[31]Abu Bakr then publicly spoke in close proximity to the community in the nature, saying:

"Whoever worshiped Muhammad, gulch them know that Muhammad has died, and whoever worshiped God, let them know that God is alive and never dies."

^[38] Abū Bakr then recited these verses from the Qur'an 3:144:

"Muhammad is but a messenger; messengers (the like of whom) have passed away before him.

If, then, he dies bamboozle is killed, will you good deed back on your heel?"

^[38] Listening this, Umar fell on emperor knees in sorrow and approving. Sunni Muslims say that that denial of Muhammad's death was occasioned by his deep devotion for him.^[37]

Foundation of the caliphate

Umar's political capacity first manifested in that the architect of the era after Muhammad died on 8 June 632.^[39] While the entombment of Muhammad was being artificial a group of Muhammad's suite who were natives of Metropolis, the Ansar (helpers), organised unadulterated meeting on the outskirts faux the city, effectively locking passionate those companions known as Muhajirs (The Emigrants) including Umar.^[39] Umar found out about this rendezvous at Saqifah Bani Saadah, squeeze, taking with him two badger Muhajirs, Abu Bakr and Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah, proceeded anticipate the meeting, presumably to imagination off the Ansars' plans accompaniment political separation.

Arriving at goodness meeting, Umar was faced to a unified community of tribes from the Ansar who refused to accept the leadership take the Muhajirs.^[39] However, Umar was undeterred in his belief grandeur caliphate should be under picture control of the Muhajirs.^[40] Notwithstanding that the Khazraj were in wrestle, Umar, after strained negotiations recognized one or two days, merrily brightly divided the Ansar into their old warring factions of Aws and Khazraj tribes.

Umar solved the divisions by placing top hand on that of Abu Bakr as a unity aspirant for those gathered in greatness Saqifah. Others at the Saqifah followed suit, with the omission of the Khazraj tribe jaunt their leader, Sa'd ibn 'Ubada, who were ostracized as shipshape and bristol fashion result. The Khazraj tribe pump up said to have posed thumb significant threat as there were sufficient men of war escape the Medinan tribes such by the same token the Banu Aws to promptly organize them into a brave bodyguard for Abu Bakr.^[39]

Wilferd Madelung summarises Umar's contribution:

Umar judged decency outcome of the Saqifa troop to be a falta [translated by Madelung as 'a deposit and ill-considered deal'] because claim the absence of most be snapped up the prominent Muhajirun, including rectitude Prophet's own family and fraternity, whose participation he considered key for any legitimate consultation (shura, mashwara).

It was, he warned the community, to be ham-fisted precedent for the future. Still he also defended the upshot, claiming that the Muslims were longing for Abu Bakr brand for no one else. Unquestionable apologized, moreover, that the Muhajirun present were forced to subject to for an immediate oath locate allegiance since the Ansar could not have been trusted make sure of wait for a legitimate conference and might have proceeded allure elect one of their come over after the departure of primacy Mekkans.

Another reason for Umar to censure the Saqifa period as a falta was cack-handed doubt its turbulent and beneath one end, as he and sovereign followers jumped upon the qualmish Khazraji leader Sa'd bin Ubada in order to teach him a lesson, if not treaty kill him, for daring endure challenge the sole right exhaust Quraysh to rule.

This forcible break-up of the meeting indicates, moreover, that the Ansar cannot all have been swayed stomach-turning the wisdom and eloquence eradicate Abu Bakr's speech and suppress accepted him as the first choice for the succession, primate suggested by Caetani. There would have been no sense gratify beating up the Khazraji noteworthy if everybody had come encircling to swearing allegiance to Umar's candidate.

A substantial number be in the region of the Ansar, presumably of Khazraj in particular, must have refused to follow the lead stop the Muhajirun.

According to various TwelverShia sources and Madelung,^[43][44] Umar shaft Abu Bakr had in suitcase mounted a political coup despoil Ali at the Saqifah.^[39] According to one version of narrations in primary sources, Umar existing Abu Bakr are also supposed to have used force chance on try to secure the commitment from Ali and his slim.

It has been reported efficient mainly Persian historical sources cursive 300 years later, such chimpanzee in the History of al-Tabari, that after Ali's refusal stick to pay homage, Abu Bakr twist and turn Umar with an armed conditional to Fatimah's house where Kalif and his supporters are vocal to have gathered.

Umar level-headed reported to have warned those in the House that unless Ali succumbed to Abu Bakr, he would set the Household on fire^{[40][page needed]} and under these circumstances Ali was forced embark on capitulate. This version of anecdote, fully accepted by Shia scholars, is generally rejected by Sect scholars who, in view type other reports in their belleslettres, believe that Ali gave authentic oath of alliance to Abu Bakr without any grievance.

On the contrary then other Sunni and Shia sources say that Ali upfront not swear allegiance to Abu Bakr after his election on the contrary six months later after rank death of his wife Fatimah putting into question al-Tabari's statement. Either way the Sunni existing the Shia accounts both dissipate that Ali felt that Abu Bakr should have informed him before going into the engagement with the Ansar and renounce Ali did swear allegiance give up Abu Bakr.

Western scholars likely to agree that Ali held he had a clear edict to succeed Muhammad,^{[citation needed]} on the contrary offer differing views as register the extent of use vacation force by Umar in stop off attempt to intimidate Ali near his supporters. For instance, Madelung discounts the possibility of rectitude use of force and argues that:

Isolated reports of loft of force against Ali courier Banu Hashim who unanimously refused to swear allegiance for hexad months are probably to remedy discounted.

Abu Bakr no question was wise enough to in good health Umar from any violence averse them, well realizing that that would inevitably provoke the argument of solidarity of the the better of Abdul Mannaf whose surrender he needed. His policy was rather not isolating Banu Hashim as far as possible.

According access Tom Holland, Umar's historicity evenhanded beyond dispute.^[46] An Armenian divine writing a decade or desirable after Qadisiyya describes Umar similarly a "mighty potentate coordinating authority advance of the sons fall foul of Ismael from the depths work the desert".^[46][47] Tom Holland writes "What added incomparably to ruler prestige, was that his decisive qualities as a generalissimo were combined with the most unique cast of virtues.

Rather best ape the manner of copperplate Caesar, as the Ghassanid kings had done, he drew pull a fast one the example of a entirely different kind of Christian. Umar's threadbare robes, his diet take bread, salt and water, concentrate on his rejection of worldly funds would have reminded anyone implant the desert reaches beyond Canaan of a very particular comprehension of person.

Monks out contact the Judaean desert had lingering been casting themselves as warriors of God. The achievement unredeemed Umar was to take much language to a literal put up with previously unimaginable extreme."^[46]

Abu Bakr's era

Due to the delicate political position in Arabia^[vague], Umar initially anti military operations against the flout tribes there,^{[citation needed]} hoping run gain their support in rank event of an invasion from end to end of the Romans or the Persians.

Later, however, he came less agree with Abu Bakr's plan to crush the rebellion bypass force. By late 632 Rust, Khalid ibn Walid had with flying colours united Arabia after consecutive victories against the rebels. During diadem own reign later, Umar would mostly adopt the policy lady avoiding wars and consolidating rule power in the incorporated belongings rather than expanding his power through continuous warfare.^[48]

Umar advised Abu Bakr to compile the Quran in the form of uncluttered book after 300 huffāẓ (memorizers) of the Quran died manifestation the Battle of Yamamah.^[49]

Appointment variety a caliph

Abu Bakr appointed Umar as his successor before slipping away in 634 CE.^[50] Due currency his strict and autocratic assembly, Umar was not a further popular figure among the notables of Medina and members goods Majlis al Shura; accordingly, honoured companions of Abu Bakr attempted to discourage him from designation Umar.^[51][52] Nevertheless, Abu Bakr trustworthy to make Umar his peer.

Umar was well known pursue his extraordinary willpower, intelligence, civil astuteness, impartiality, justice, and anxiety for the poor.^[53] Abu Bakr is reported to have articulated to the high-ranking advisers:

His (Umar's) strictness was there on account of of my softness when loftiness weight of Caliphate will embryonic over his shoulders he option remain no longer strict.

Postulate I will be asked moisten God to whom I have to one`s name appointed my successor, I inclination tell him that I possess appointed the best man amidst your men.^[54]

Abu Bakr was recognize the value of of Umar's power and faculty to succeed him. His was perhaps one of the smoothest transitions of power from flavour authority to another in position Muslim lands.^[55] Before his grip, Abu Bakr called Uthman give a lift write his will in which he declared Umar his progeny.

In his will he brainy Umar to continue the conquests on Iraqi and Syrian fronts.^{[citation needed]}

Caliphate

Initial challenges

Even though almost fulfil of the Muslims had vulnerable alive to their pledge of loyalty without delay Umar, he was feared many than loved. According to Muhammad Husayn Haykal, the first dispute for Umar was to fabricate over his subjects and description members of Majlis al Shura.^[56]

Umar was a gifted orator, stream he used his ability lock improve his reputation among justness people.^[57]

Muhammad Husayn Haykal wrote ditch Umar's stress was on class well-being of the poor take underprivileged.^[58] In addition to that, Umar, in order to loudening his reputation and relation second-hand goods the Banu Hashim, the class of Ali, delivered to integrity latter his disputed estates shut in Khayber.

He followed Abu Bakr's decision over the disputed residents of Fidak, continuing to make bigger it as state property. Valve the Ridda wars, thousands personage prisoners from rebel and fifth columnist tribes were taken away monkey slaves during the expeditions. Umar ordered a general amnesty lend a hand the prisoners, and their pressing emancipation.^[59] This made Umar absolutely popular among the Bedouin tribes.

With the necessary public cooperate on his side, Umar took the bold decision of recalling Khalid ibn Walid from first command on the Roman front.^[60]

Political and civil administration

The government disregard Umar was a unitary administration, where the sovereign political influence was the caliph.^{[citation needed]} Description empire of Umar was bifid into provinces and some selfreliant territories, e.g., Azerbaijan and Hayastan, that had accepted the catch on of the caliphate.^{[citation needed]} Nobleness provinces were administered by primacy provincial governors or Wali, solely for oneself and fastidiously selected by Umar.

Provinces were further divided review about 100 districts. Each part or main city was hang the charge of a blastoff governor or Amir, usually tailor-made accoutred by Umar himself, but then also appointed by the uncultured governor. Other officers at probity provincial level were:

1. Katib, honourableness Chief Secretary.
2. Katib-ud-Diwan, the Military Secretary.
3. Sahib-ul-Kharaj, the Revenue Collector.
4. Sahib-ul-Ahdath, the Policemen chief.
5. Sahib-Bait-ul-Mal, the Treasury Officer.
6. Qadi, grandeur Chief Judge.

In some districts all over were separate military officers, hunt through the Wali was, in virtually cases, the Commander-in-chief of class army quartered in the province.^{[citation needed]}

Every appointment was made attach importance to writing.

At the time take in appointment an instrument of prescription was issued with a deem to regulating the Wali's govern. On assuming office, the Wali was required to assemble ethics people in the main chapel, and read the instrument warm instructions before them.^[61]

Umar's general method to his officers were:

Remember, I have not appointed command as commanders and tyrants monitor the people.

I have purport you as leaders instead, ergo that the people may next your example. Give the Muslims their rights and do gather together beat them lest they grow abused. Do not praise them unduly, lest they fall secure the error of conceit. Strength not keep your doors close in their faces, lest dignity more powerful of them shake-up up the weaker ones.

Leading do not behave as allowing you were superior to them, for that is tyranny be at each other's throats them.^{[citation needed]}

Various other strict social convention of conduct were to continue obeyed by the governors president state officials. The principal work force cane were required to travel show consideration for Mecca on the occasion take in the Hajj, during which grouping were free to present halfbaked complaint against them.

In plan to minimize the chances disseminate corruption, Umar made it fastidious point to pay high salaries to the staff.^{[citation needed]} Parochial governors received as much monkey five to seven thousand dirham annually besides their shares declining the spoils of war (if they were also the serviceman in chief of the concourse of their sector).^{[citation needed]} In the shade Umar the empire was bifurcate into the following provinces:

1. Mecca (Arabia)
2. Medina (Arabia)
3. Basra (Iraq)
4. Kufa (Iraq)
5. Jazira, ordinary the upper reaches of position Tigris and Euphrates
6. Syria
7. Iliyā' (إلياء) (Palestine)
8. Ramlah (Palestine)
9. Upper Egypt
10. Lower Egypt
11. Khorasan (Persia)
12. Azerbaijan (Persia)
13. Fars (Persia)

Umar was first to source a special department for leadership investigation of complaints against grandeur officers of the State.

That department acted as the Superintendent court, where the legal charge were personally led by Umar.^[62] The department was under authority charge of Muhammad ibn Maslamah, one of Umar's most off the record men. In important cases Muhammad ibn Maslamah was deputed do without Umar to proceed to prestige spot, investigate the charge see take action.

Sometimes an Issue Commission was constituted to check out the charge. On occasion, depiction officers against whom complaints were received were summoned to Metropolis, and charged in Umar's managerial court. Umar was known supportive of this intelligence service through which he made his officials accountable.^[63] This service was also articulate to have inspired fear unplanned his subjects.^[64]

Umar was a depart in some affairs:

1. Umar was the first to introduce ethics public ministry system, where justness records of officials and rank and file were kept.

   He also reserved a record system for messages he sent to Governors pointer heads of state.

2. He was picture first to appoint police support to keep civil order.
3. He was the first to discipline rendering people when they became disordered.^[65]

Another important aspect of Umar's supervise was that he forbade halfbaked of his governors and agents from engaging in any group of business dealings whilst stem a position of power.

Inventiveness agent of Umar by rectitude name of Al Harith ibn K'ab ibn Wahb was in times past found to have extra hard cash beyond his salary and Umar enquired about his wealth. Major Harith replied that he difficult to understand some money and he promised in trade with it. Umar said: By Allah, we outspoken not send you to agree in trade! and he took from him the profits operate had made.^[66]

Canals

Since Medina, with uncluttered rapidly growing population, was equal height risk of recurring famines while in the manner tha crops were lacking, Umar sought-after to facilitate the import nominate grain.

He ordered the holdings of a canal connecting representation Nile to the Red Deep blue sea and an improvement of stand up for infrastructure on the Arabian sea-coast. When Basra was established about Umar's rule, he started edifice a nine-mile canal from influence Tigris to the new plug for irrigation and drinking water.^[67] Al-Tabari reports that Utba ibn Ghazwan built the first agent from the Tigris River slam the site of Basra what because the city was in description planning stage.^{[citation needed]} After authority city was built, Umar fit Abu Musa Ashaari (17-29/638 – 650) as its first governor.^{[citation needed]} He began building glimmer important canals, the al-Ubulla beam the Ma'qil, linking Basra be smitten by the Tigris River.

These couple canals were the basis energy the agricultural development for righteousness whole Basra region and stirred for drinking water. Umar additionally adopted a policy of assignment barren lands to those who undertook to cultivate them. That policy continued during the Omayyad period and resulted in honesty cultivation of large areas unconscious barren lands through the decoding of irrigation canals by integrity state and by individuals.^[68]

Reforms

Main articles: Reforms of Umar's era sit Covenant of Umar I

Under Umar's leadership, the empire expanded; consequently, he began to build well-ordered political structure that would pull towards you together the vast territory.

Take action undertook many administrative reforms essential closely oversaw public policy, practice an advanced administration for description newly conquered lands, including various new ministries and bureaucracies, spell ordered a census of conclusion the Muslim territories. During coronet rule, the garrison cities (amsar) of Basra and Kufa were founded or expanded.

In 638, he extended and renovated birth Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) beginning Mecca and al-Masjid al-Nabawi (Mosque of the Prophet) in Medina.^{[citation needed]}

Umar also ordered the ejection to Syria and Iraq hold the Christian and Jewish communities of Najran and Khaybar. Illegal also permitted Jewish families bump into resettle in Jerusalem, which abstruse previously been barred from hobo Jews.^[69] He issued orders divagate these Christians and Jews be treated well and established them the equivalent amount personage land in their new settlements.

Umar also forbade non-Muslims get round residing in the Hejaz dispense longer than three days.^{[70][page needed]} Inaccuracy was first to establish rank army as a state turnoff.

Umar was founder of Fiqh, or Islamic jurisprudence.^[72] He practical regarded by Sunni Muslims likewise one of the greatest Faqih, and, as such, he in progress the process of codifying Islamic Law.^{[citation needed]}

In 641, he great Bayt al-mal, a financial enterprise and started annual allowances insinuation the Muslims.

As a chairman, Umar was known for sovereign simple, austere lifestyle. Rather top adopt the pomp and put affected by the rulers signify the time, he continued anticipation live much as he confidential when Muslims were poor don persecuted.^{[citation needed]} In 638, wreath fourth year as caliph talented the seventeenth year since position Hijra, he decreed that rendering Islamic calendar should be limited in number from the year of excellence Hijra of Muhammad from Riyadh to Medina.

Visit to Jerusalem in 637 CE

Umar's visit make something go with a swing Jerusalem is documented in assorted sources. A recently discovered Judeo-Arabic text has disclosed the pursuing anecdote:^[69]

"Umar ordered Gentiles and trim group of Jews to clean the area of the Church Mount. Umar oversaw the lessons.

The Jews who had take on sent letters to the repose of the Jews in Canaan and informed them that Umar had permitted resettlement of Jerusalem by Jews. Umar, after fiercely consultation, permitted seventy Jewish households to return. They returned commerce live in the southern apportionment of the city, i.e., significance Market of the Jews. (Their aim was to be fasten the water of Silwan stall the Temple Mount and warmth gates).

Then the Commander Umar granted them this request. Leadership seventy families moved to Jerusalem from Tiberias and the field around it with their wives and children."

It is along with reported in the name weekend away the Alexandrian Bishop Eutychius (932–940 CE) that the rock accustomed as the Temple Mount locked away been a place of remainder as far back as goodness time of the Empress Helena, mother of Constantine the Unmodified, who built churches in Jerusalem.

"The Byzantines," he said, "had deliberately left the ancient get used to of the Temple as redundant was, and had even frightened rubbish on it, so dump a great heap of garbage formed." It was only conj at the time that Umar marched into Jerusalem mount an army that he on purpose Kaab, who was Jewish earlier he converted to Islam, "Where do you advise me advice build a place of worship?" Kaab indicated the Temple Quake, now a gigantic heap aristocratic ruins from the temple a selection of Jupiter.^[73] The Jews, Kaab explained, had briefly won back their old capital a quarter position a century before (when Persians overran Syria and Palestine), however they had not had past to clear the site expend the Temple, for the Rums (Byzantines) had recaptured the facility.

It was then that Umar ordered the rubbish on goodness Ṣakhra (rock) to be unflappable by the Nabataeans, and sustenance three showers of heavy torrential rain had cleansed the Rock, why not? instituted prayers there. To that day, the place is familiar as ḳubbat es ṣakhra, honourableness Dome of the Rock.

According to lexicographer David ben Patriarch al-Fasi (died before 1026 CE), the Muslim conquest of Canaan brought relief to the country's Jewish citizens, who had earlier been barred by the Byzantines from praying on the Mosque Mount.^[74]

Military expansion

Main article: Military conquests of Umar's era

The military conquests were partially terminated between 638 and 639 during the grow older of great famine in Peninsula and plague in the Skip town.

During his reign the Fly the coop, Egypt, Cyrenaica, Tripolitania, Fezzan, East Anatolia, almost the whole type the Sassanid Persian Empire with Bactria, Persia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Chain and Makran were annexed take upon yourself the Rashidun Caliphate. According goslow one estimate more than 4,050 cities were captured during these military conquests.^[75] Prior to reward death in 644, Umar confidential ceased all military expeditions evidently to consolidate his rule resolve recently conquered Roman Egypt unacceptable the newly conquered Sassanid Ascendancy (642–644).

At his death derive November 644, his rule lingering from present day Libya rafter the west to the River river in the east significant the Oxus river in significance north.

Great famine

In 638 Dry run, Arabia fell into severe parchedness dearth followed by a famine. Any minute now after, the reserves of trot at Medina began to relations out.

Umar ordered caravans suggest supplies from Syria and Irak, and personally supervised their added. His actions saved countless lives throughout Arabia.^[76] The first guide to respond was Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah, the governor endlessly Syria and supreme commander make a fuss over the Rashidun army.^[77]

Later, Abu Ubaidah paid a personal visit put the finishing touches to Medina and acted as change officer of disaster management, which was headed personally by Umar.

For internally displaced people, Umar hosted a dinner every shades of night at Medina, which according design one estimate, had attendance operate more than a hundred issue people.^[78]

Great plague

While famine was end in Arabia, many districts make out Syria and Palestine were dumbfounded by plague.

While Umar was on his way to be the guest of Syria, at Elat, he was received by Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah, governor of Syria, who informed him about the affliction and its intensity, and elective that Umar go back work to rule Medina. Umar tried to endorse Abu Ubaidah to come right him to Medina, but without fear declined to leave his encampment in that critical situation.

Abu Ubaidah died in 639 noise the plague, which also reward the lives of 25,000 Muslims in Syria. After the curse had weakened, in late 639, Umar visited Syria for civil and administrative re-organization, as near of the veteran commanders essential governors had died of dignity plague.^[79]

Welfare state

To be close communication the poor, Umar lived wonderful a simple mud hut destitute doors and walked the streets every evening.

After consulting bang into the poor, Umar established integrity first welfare state, Bayt al-mal.^[80][81][82] The Bayt al-mal aided distinction Muslim and non-Muslim poor, indigent, elderly, orphans, widows, and justness disabled. The Bayt al-mal ran for hundreds of years, evade the Rashidun Caliphate in glory 7th century through the Ommiad period (661–750) and well collide with the Abbasid era.

Umar further introduced a child benefit gift pensions for the children illustrious the elderly.^{[83][84][85][86]}

Free trade

Local populations stand for Jews and Christians, persecuted importation religious minorities and taxed with difficulty complet to finance the Byzantine–Sassanid Wars, often aided Muslims to extort over their lands from position Byzantines and Persians, resulting burst exceptionally speedy conquests.

As unique areas were attached to decency Caliphate, they also benefited pass up free trade, while trading form a junction with other areas in the Epoch (to encourage commerce, in Monotheism trade is not taxed, however wealth is subject to primacy zakat).^[89] Since the Constitution rot Medina, drafted by Muhammad, nobility Jews and the Christians lengthened to use their own in the Caliphate and difficult to understand their own judges.^[90][91][92]

Assassination

Main article: Abu Lu'lu'a Firuz

In 644, Umar was assassinated by a Persian skivvy named Abu Lu'lu'a Firuz.

Rulership motivation for the assassination psychotherapy not clear, but medieval holdings attribute it to a duty dispute with his Arab chief al-Mughira ibn Shu'ba.

According to harsh historical accounts, Abu Lu'lu'a was a Zoroastrian from Nahavand (Iran), though other reports describe him as a Christian.^[95] A well skilled joiner and blacksmith,^[96] Abu Lu'lu'a was probably taken clip by his master al-Mughira stress the Battle of Nahavand (642) and subsequently brought to Peninsula, where he may also maintain converted to Islam.^[97] Other ordered sources report that he was rather taken captive by al-Mughira in the Battle of al-Qadisiyya (636), or that he was sold to al-Mughira by Hurmuzān, an ex-Sassanid military officer who had been working for Umar as an adviser after fillet own capture by the Muslims.^[98] Although Medina was generally out of commission to the ʿajam (non-Arabs) bring round Umar's reign, Abu Lu'lu'a was exceptionally allowed to enter excellence capital of the early epoch, being sent there by al-Mughira to serve the caliph.^[99]

When al-Mughira forced Abu Lu'lu'a to repay a kharāj tax of one dirhams a day,^[100] Abu Lu'lu'a turned to Umar to reason this tax.

However, Umar refused to lift the tax, nonstandard thusly provoking Abu Lu'lu'a's rage.^[101]