Omar Bin Al Khattab, the second caliph

Dubai: Omar Bin Al Khattab is the second caliph and one of the most influential Muslim rulers in history.

He was known for his power, intelligence, political astuteness, impartiality, justice and care for the poor and underprivileged. His justice earned him the title ‘Al Farooq’ — one who distinguishes between right and wrong.

During Al Khattab’s rule, the Islamic empire expanded at an unprecedented rate and covered the area where Afghanistan is today, to Libya to the West and from Syria in the north to Yemen in the south. He was also called ‘Amir Al Mo’mineen’ (Commander of the Faithful). It was during Al Khattab’s rule that (occupied) Jerusalem became part of the Islamic empire. The Masjid Omar Bin Al Khattab was built In the place where he prayed in the city. It still exists today near the church of Holy Sepulchre.

Achievements:

1. Laying the foundation of a modern state. The government of Omar was more or less a ‘unitary government’. The Islamic empire was divided into provinces administered by governors. The provinces were divided into districts, and each one was under the charge of junior governors usually appointed by Omar Bin Al Khateeb.

2. He was the first to establish an army as a state department, and ordered certain groups to accompany them, including medical and judicial teams.

3. He established Bayt Al Mal’l, a financial institution. He collected taxes from the rich and paid allowances to the underprivileged.

4. He introduced the Islamic calendar. During his rule, Al Khateeb decreed that the Islamic calendar should be counted from the year of the Hijra of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Madinah.

5. He banned the demolition of churches, and allowed the Jews to pray in their synagogues.