Omar ibn al-Khattab
Omar ibn al-Khattab, whose full name is Omar ibn al-Khattab ibn Nufail ibn Abd al-Uzza ibn Riyaḥ ibn Abd Allah ibn Qurt ibn Razah ibn Adi ibn Ka’b ibn Lu’ay ibn Ghalib al-Adawi al-Qurashi, shares lineage with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through Ka’b ibn Lu’ay. His mother was Hantamah bint Hashim ibn al-Mughira ibn Amr ibn Makhzum. He was born in Mecca thirteen years after the Year of the Elephant. Among his physical characteristics, he was tall, fair-skinned with a reddish tint, and had a bald head, which he would dye with henna and indigo.
Characteristics and Traits of Omar ibn al-Khattab
Courage
Courage is one of the most notable traits of Omar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him). He never hesitated to make sacrifices in the name of God or to defend the Messenger of God (peace be upon him). Historical accounts are filled with examples of his bravery and steadfastness. One such incident is narrated by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), who asked Omar about the reason for his nickname ‘Al-Faruq’. Omar recounted his acceptance of Islam and noted that he asked the Prophet (peace be upon him), “Aren’t we upon the truth whether we live or die?” The Prophet confirmed this, to which Omar asserted that he would no longer hide his faith. Consequently, Omar led a contingent of Muslims, including Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib, into the mosque, striking fear into the hearts of the Quraysh, prompting the Prophet to refer to him as ‘Al-Faruq’.
Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) also remarked that they were unable to pray in the Kaaba until Omar accepted Islam, stating that it was only upon his conversion that he fought against the Quraysh to protect their right to pray. Omar’s fearless declaration of his Islam, even boldly confronting Abu Jahl, illustrates his remarkable courage. The Prophet (peace be upon him) acknowledged Omar’s significance by saying, “By the One in Whose Hand is my soul, whenever you meet the devil on the way, he will certainly avoid your path.”
Strength
Omar’s strength transcended mere physical prowess; it also encompassed mental and spiritual dimensions. His physical strength was a product of the challenging environment of Mecca, where he grew up without comfort or ease. He inherited qualities of resilience from his father, Al-Khattab ibn Nufail, who was known for his formidable character. Omar was physically imposing, standing taller than most and presenting the appearance of riding while surrounded by others on foot. His commanding presence was noted by many; he was known for his swift strides, forceful speech, and dexterous riding skills. He exhibited his strength in various situations, including commanding respect and instilling fear in those around him.
Omar’s psychological strength was evidenced by his forthrightness and determination. He was unafraid to express his profound love for the Prophet (peace be upon him) and to openly declare his faith in Mecca. The Prophet (peace be upon him) notably remarked on Omar’s significance in Islam, stating, “The most compassionate of my ummah towards my ummah is Abu Bakr, and the sternest in the religion of Allah is Omar.”
Justice
Omar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) exemplified the principle of justice, applying the laws of Allah equitably to all, regardless of their social status. Abdullah ibn Omar (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated that when Omar prohibited something, he would gather his family and emphasize the importance of maintaining integrity, warning them that their actions would reflect on him. In one notable incident, a river obstructed an army’s advance during a campaign in Persia. When a soldier feared for his life upon entering the cold water to scout a crossing, Omar had a strong reaction to the soldier’s subsequent death, illustrating his deep commitment to justice and accountability.
Upon receiving reports regarding the army’s losses, Omar deposed the commander and insisted on just treatment for all, emphasizing that accountability and responsibility were paramount in his leadership. His dedication to justice was a hallmark of his time as caliph, earning the respect and admiration of those he led.
Sound Judgment
Omar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) was distinguished by his clear and astute judgment. His insights were so profound that the Quran often confirmed his perspectives on various issues. A notable instance occurred following the Battle of Badr, where 70 of the Quraysh were killed, and another 70 were captured. The Prophet (peace be upon him) consulted his companions for advice regarding the prisoners. While Abu Bakr suggested seeking ransom, Omar advocated for capital punishment. Ultimately, the Prophet accepted Abu Bakr’s counsel, yet later verses revealed that Allah aligned with Omar’s position, stating: “It is not for a prophet to have captives until he has made a great slaughter in the land. You seek the good of this world, but Allah wants for you the Hereafter.” Verses correlating with Omar’s ideas on various matters—including the prayer direction towards the Black Stone and matters concerning the modesty of the Mothers of the Believers—further affirm his wisdom.
Background of Omar ibn al-Khattab
Omar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) emerged from a humble background, devoid of wealth and luxury. His father tasked him with herding camels, immersing him in a life of difficulty. However, he learned to read and write and eventually ventured into trade, where he gained financial success, earning him recognition within the Quraysh tribe. His role as a mediator among tribes during pre-Islamic times established his reputation. Omar embraced Islam in the sixth year of the Prophethood, inspired by the Prophet’s supplication for Allah to honor Islam through him. Following his conversion, he earned the title ‘Al-Faruq’ for openly professing his faith in Mecca, thus helping to distinguish truth from falsehood.