Characteristics Of Umar Ibn Al Khattab

Umar ibn al-Khattab was the second caliph after the demise of Prophet Muhammad. He succeeded Abu Bakr on 235 August 634. He ruled for about ten years with his very unique character and style. He was known of his powerful and firm personalities. During his administration, he enforced justice for all level of society emphatically. Umar was very concerned on the welfare of the poor and the weakest of society. He even mentioned that the poor should be protected more than the strong. People had called him by the name Al-Faruq which means as the one who distinguishes between right and wrong. It is very important for a leader to believe in the Quran and Sunnah as it provides the way of life that fit for all human beings including the Muslims or non-Muslims at all the times in all places. Muhammad Shibli notes “Umar ibn al Khattab believed that the guidance of the Quran and Sunnah sufficed to meet any challenges that would face the Muslims.” Admittedly, Umar was known of his humility and modesty. He lived in very simple and moderate life unlike today's leaders who are unable to control their self-interests and desires enjoying the temptation of the world. He was a man who acted according …show more content…
He protected the welfare weak and the poor more than the strong. J. Shelton notes “As a ruler of a vast kingdom, his vision was to ensure that every one in his kingdom should sleep on full stomach and to ensure this, he walked through the street almost every night to see if there is any one needy or ill.” Umar also has said that he will be harsh and stern against the aggressor but he will be a pillar of strength for the weak. He will not calm down until he will put on cheek of a tyrant on the ground and the other under his feet, and for the poor and weak, he will put his cheek on the ground. This showed that Umar really concerned on the well-being of the poor and weak