Following the migration to Medina, Umar ibn Al-Khattab remained a steadfast supporter of the Islamic cause, standing by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) throughout the arduous stages of state-building. He never missed a single expedition led by the Prophet (ﷺ), embodying a rare blend of strength, might, and unwavering resolve. This invincible spirit was most evident during the Battle of Uhud. As the fighting subsided, Abu Sufyan called out three times, inquiring if the Prophet (ﷺ) was still among the living. Upon the Prophet’s (ﷺ) counsel, the companions remained silent. Abu Sufyan repeated his inquiry regarding Abu Bakr and Umar, eventually turning to his followers to claim that the leadership of Islam had been slain. Umar (RA) could no longer restrain himself and shouted back, ”You lie, O enemy of Allah! Those you mentioned are very much alive, and what grieves you most is yet to come.’ Abu Sufyan retorted, ”This day is a recompense for Badr; war is ever a matter of alternating fortunes. You will find your dead mutilated; though I did not command it, I do not regret it.” He then began to chant, ”O Hubal, be high!” The Prophet (ﷺ) turned to his companions and asked, ”Will you not respond?” When they asked what they should say, he instructed them, ”Say: Allah is Higher and more Sublime.” Abu Sufyan then cried out, ”We have Al-Uzza, and you have no Uzza!” Again, the Prophet (ﷺ) urged his companions to answer. They asked, ”What shall we say, O Messenger of Allah?” He replied, ”Say: Allah is our Protector (Maula), and you have no protector.”

     Umar ibn al-Khattab was the Prophet’s (ﷺ) closest companion after Abu Bakr. Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: ”Whoever hates Umar hates me, and whoever loves Umar loves me.” He further noted that while Allah expresses pride in all those gathered at Arafat, He expresses a special pride in Umar. The Prophet (ﷺ) also remarked that every nation has those who are ‘inspired’ (Muhaddathun), and if there were one in his nation, it would surely be Umar. When asked how such a person speaks, the Prophet (ﷺ) replied, ”Angels speak through his tongue.” Such was his spiritual stature that Satan never encountered Umar without retreating in haste. Furthermore, Divine Revelation often descended in alignment with Umar’s discernment. Our master Anas (RA) narrated that Umar once said: ”My Lord concurred with me in three instances. I suggested to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) that we take the Station (Maqam) of Ibrahim as a place of prayer, and subsequently, Allah revealed: ”And take the Maqam of Ibrahim as a place of prayer.‘”

   As Abu Bakr’s (RA) illness grew severe, he appointed Umar to lead the prayers in his stead. Sensing his end was near, the companions gathered, urging him to nominate a successor whose leadership they would uphold. Abu Bakr summoned Umar and informed him of his choice. Umar responded with humility, saying: ”I have no desire for such authority.” However, Abu Bakr insisted: ”But the Ummah has need of you. I have prayed for Allah’s guidance, and I believe this choice is vital for the unity and strength of the Muslims.” Yielding to Abu Bakr’s wisdom, Umar accepted. Abu Bakr then dictated the formal ordinance to Uthman (RA), officially appointing Umar as the second Caliph of Islam.

        His Reign as Caliph

   Sayyiduna Umar ibn Al-Khattab achieved monumental milestones for the Islamic state, leaving an enduring legacy for the Ummah. His reign was defined by vast territorial expansions, including the conquests of Damascus, Jordan, Jerusalem, and Egypt, as Islam spread across new horizons. He was the first to be formally titled ‘Amir Al-Mu’minin’ (Commander of the Faithful). Beyond military success, his era was marked by profound administrative and civilizational advancements:

1- The Hijri Calendar: He institutionalized the Hijri era, dating it from the Prophet’s (ﷺ) migration to Medina.

2- Congregational Taraweeh: He formalised the Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan, uniting the people in a single congregation.

3- Administrative Reform: He pioneered the Islamic administrative system by establishing specialized roles, such as the Chief Secretary (Katib), Military Secretary (Katib al-Diwan), Revenue Collector (Sahib al-Kharaj), Police Chief (Sahib al-Ahdath), and Treasury Officer (Sahib Bayt al-Maal).

4- Food Security: He established public granaries and strategic reserves for essential supplies like flour and barley to ensure the welfare of the citizens.

5- Military Organization: He was the first to introduce organized military service, ensuring a disciplined and ready defense force.”

     Ultimately, the virtues of the Commander of the Faithful, Umar ibn Al-Khattab, are innumerable. Perhaps no words can better illustrate his profound status among the believers than those of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Abu Dharr (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), upon seeing Umar, remarked: ”You shall not be afflicted with tribulation so long as he is amongst you.” A leader of unwavering justice and a visionary of statecraft, Umar remains a beacon for the Ummah. May Allah be pleased with the companion Umar ibn Al-Khattab.