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Umar ibn al-Khattab, one of the greatest Caliphs in Islamic history, symbolizes justice, humility, and strong leadership. Renowned author Moin Qazi eloquently highlights his extraordinary traits that have inspired generations.
In the 7th century, an envoy of the Roman Emperor arrived in Madinah, the heart of the Islamic world, accompanied by a grand entourage showcasing Roman opulence. He asked a passerby, “Where is the palace of the Caliph?” The Arab, puzzled by the lack of grandeur, replied, “What do you mean by a palace?” The envoy clarified, “I mean the residence of Umar, the Caliph of Islam.”
He was led to a humble dwelling where, to his amazement, the Caliph rested on the floor, free from royal trappings. Umar’s simplicity and humility left the envoy awestruck, and his report deeply impressed the Roman Emperor, contrasting opulence with Islamic modesty.
Umar converted to Islam six years after Prophet Muhammad’s first revelation and spent 18 years as one of the Prophet’s closest companions. On 23 August 634, he succeeded Caliph Abu Bakr, ushering in a transformative era. During his reign, the Islamic state expanded from a small principality into a global power, controlling the former Sassanid Persian Empire and over two-thirds of the Eastern Roman Empire.
Known for his legislative brilliance and administrative skill, Umar’s leadership marked an era of remarkable transformation. His swift conquest of the Persian Empire within two years demonstrated his military genius. Despite such achievements, he remained an ascetic leader, stern yet just, committed to upholding equity.
Umar’s legacy of humility, justice, and effective leadership continues to inspire people worldwide.
Moin Qazi
An economist by training and a development professional by practice, Moin Qazi is an author, researcher, and academic who has spent four decades in the development sector. He is a firm believer in learning from communities in their environments. Qazi began his early career as a development journalist. While still at college, he began writing on issues relating to the plight of child labourers and leading efforts against it. His work ultimately received the attention of Indian courts, leading to a series of reforms for child labourers.
