The Virtues of Umar ibn al-Khattab and Abu Hurairah
The Virtues of Umar ibn al-Khattab
Umar ibn al-Khattab – may Allah be pleased with him – is widely recognized as the second most virtuous man after Abu Bakr – may Allah be pleased with him. His lineage connects to the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – through K’ab. As one of the early converts to Islam, his acceptance of the faith marked a significant turning point, bringing triumph and dignity to both the religion and its followers. Prior to his conversion, the noble companions were unable to express their prayers openly at the Kaaba until he embraced Islam. He was the first to publicly announce his faith, demonstrating immense strength and conviction. When the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – prayed for either Umar or Abu Jahl to accept Islam, Allah answered by guiding Umar. The Prophet subsequently bestowed upon him the title of “Al-Faruq,” signifying that Allah distinguished truth from falsehood through him, solidifying the truth within his heart and words. Additionally, one of his merits was the fleeing of evil spirits in his presence. Umar – may Allah be pleased with him – met his martyrdom while engaged in prayer after successfully leading the Islamic community for ten years.
The Virtues of Abu Hurairah
Abu Hurairah – may Allah be pleased with him – is distinguished by numerous virtues. He accompanied the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – for four years, during which he narrated many Hadith and absorbed knowledge. He was appointed by the Prophet to serve as an imam and muezzin in Bahrain. The Prophet was always prompt in responding to his inquiries regarding Islamic matters, and Abu Hurairah exhibited a profound love for learning and religious understanding. He became a primary source of knowledge for the companions, who often sought his counsel on religious issues. The Prophet held him in high regard, admiring his enthusiasm for knowledge and his relentless pursuit of Hadith. Furthermore, Abu Hurairah was known for asking questions that others hesitated to pose to the Prophet – peace be upon him.
His deep affection for the Prophet was evident; he felt immense joy in seeing him and listening to his teachings. Numerous Hadith reflect the Prophet’s admiration for him, highlighting his valuable role in spreading knowledge in Mecca, Medina, Damascus, Iraq, and Bahrain. Despite the abundance of knowledgeable companions, Abu Hurairah assumed the role of mufti and imparted knowledge to many seekers.
Abu Hurairah During the Caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab
During Umar ibn al-Khattab’s – may Allah be pleased with him – caliphate, Abu Hurairah – may Allah be pleased with him – played a pivotal role in issuing fatwas, often doing so in the presence of Ibn Abbas – may Allah be pleased with him. Umar appointed him as the governor of Bahrain, where he actively provided legal opinions to the local populace. However, Umar later advised him to moderate his narrations of Hadith due to concerns about potential errors and to prevent distracting the people from the Quran. Observing Abu Hurairah’s piety and caution, Umar eventually permitted him to continue narrating Hadith. Despite being one of the most renowned companions known for transmitting Hadith, Abu Hurairah refrained from doing so during Umar’s rule, adhering to the concerns of the rightly guided caliphs to prevent any opportunity for hypocrites to distort or exaggerate teachings. He resumed narrating Hadith when the community required his wisdom.
It is reported that Abu Hurairah immersed himself in the pursuit of knowledge and teaching during Umar’s caliphate. He accompanied him on his pilgrimage and participated in the Battle of Yarmouk. Although he was appointed to govern Bahrain, he was dismissed from this position for a time, and when Umar sought to reinstate him, Abu Hurairah – may Allah be pleased with him – expressed his reluctance, saying: “I fear that I may speak without knowledge and judge without understanding.”
Umar ibn al-Khattab’s Appointment of Abu Hurairah
Umar ibn al-Khattab – may Allah be pleased with him – appointed Abu Hurairah as the governor of Bahrain, a position previously held by the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – for the purpose of spreading Islam and educating the people regarding their faith. Eventually, Umar relieved him of this role upon noticing Abu Hurairah’s soft demeanor and his devotion to worship. When Umar later sought to restore his position, Abu Hurairah declined the offer, returning instead to Medina, where he would remain until his passing in the year 57 AH.