HISTORY OF HAZRAT UMAR R.A

 Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (R.A), also known as Umar al-Farooq, was the second caliph of Islam and one of the most prominent and influential companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He was born in approximately 584 CE in Mecca, into the Adi clan of the Quraysh tribe, a respected and influential family.

Before embracing Islam, Umar was known for his strong character, intelligence, and leadership skills. He was a courageous and respected figure in Mecca and held a significant position within the Quraysh community. However, his initial attitude towards Islam was hostile, and he actively opposed the Muslims, especially during the early years of the Prophet's (PBUH) message.

In the sixth year of the prophethood, a transformative incident occurred in Umar's life. Filled with anger upon learning that his sister and her husband had converted to Islam, he set out to confront them. During the confrontation, he ended up hearing verses from the Quran, which profoundly impacted him. Realizing the truth of Islam, he underwent a complete transformation and immediately accepted the faith. His conversion was a turning point, as his acceptance of Islam significantly strengthened the Muslim community.

As a new Muslim, Hazrat Umar did not hide his faith and became a staunch supporter of the Prophet (PBUH). His conversion provided a sense of security and emboldened the Muslims to practice their faith openly in Mecca. Despite facing persecution and hardship, Hazrat Umar remained steadfast in his commitment to Islam.

Hazrat Umar played a crucial role in various significant events during the early Islamic period. He actively participated in the Battle of Badr and other military campaigns. His strategic and tactical skills contributed to the Muslim victories. His dedication to justice and fair governance was evident when he served as a judge in Mecca during the pre-caliphate period.

After the passing of Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A), the first Caliph of Islam, the Muslim community chose Hazrat Umar as the second Caliph in 634 CE. His caliphate is remembered as one of the most transformative periods in Islamic history.

As a caliph, Hazrat Umar focused on expanding the Islamic empire through military conquests. The Muslim armies successfully conquered vast territories, including the Byzantine and Sassanian empires, spreading Islam throughout the Middle East and beyond.

Hazrat Umar is also known for his administrative reforms. He established a comprehensive system of governance that emphasized accountability and justice. During his reign, he introduced various measures to ensure the welfare of the Muslim community, including the establishment of stipends for the poor, early forms of welfare for the needy, and the construction of canals for irrigation.

His accessibility to the people and his practice of seeking counsel from various companions earned him the title "al-Farooq," which means "the one who distinguishes between right and wrong."

Despite his remarkable achievements, Hazrat Umar faced threats to his life due to his uncompromising stance on justice. Tragically, he was assassinated in 644 CE by a Persian slave named Abu Lulu while leading the morning prayers in Medina. His death was a great loss to the Muslim community, and he is remembered as a paragon of justice, piety, and strong leadership in Islam.

Hazrat Umar's legacy remains revered by Muslims worldwide, and his contributions to Islam are celebrated for their profound impact on the early Muslim community and subsequent generations.