Author: Obaidullah Nimruzi
The Biography of Umar bin Abdul Aziz ‘May Allah have mercy on him’ (Part Eight)
In the second part of this study, the ignorant deviations and perversions of the Umayyad era were discussed; however, in this part, the characteristics of the caliphate of Umar bin Abdul Aziz, may Allah have mercy on him, along with his personal, social, and political traits, will be briefly described, Inshallah.
The Caliphate of Umar bin Abdul Aziz ‘May Allah have mercy on him’
Hazrat Umar bin Abdul Aziz was among the just, ascetic, and pious caliphs throughout the history of Islam. He was the grandson of the founder of this clan, “Marwan,” and his mother, “Umm Asim,” was the granddaughter of the second caliph, Farouq Azam (Hazrat Umar ‘may Allah have mercy on him’). Umar bin Abdul Aziz was born in 61 AH. He was the cousin of the reigning caliph, “Suleiman bin Abdul Malik,” and served as the ruler of Medina during the reigns of Walid bin Abdul Malik and Suleiman himself.
The way of life during his youth bore little resemblance to that during his caliphate. Before becoming caliph, he enjoyed a princely lifestyle and was characterized by a youthful indulgence. For a while, the scent of his perfume would waft through the streets as he passed, causing people to remark that “Umar has passed by here.” He was cheerful and good-natured, and although he had a healthy disposition, his love for truth and innate good morals were the only signs that hinted at his future role in the history of Islam. In fact, his entire existence was miraculous, as was his ascension to the caliphate, particularly given that in hereditary states, no one would have envisioned him as a candidate for caliphate.
Had the natural conditions and societal behaviors continued as they were, Umar bin Abdul Aziz’s role would likely have been limited to that of a provincial ruler. However, the hand of Allah’s destiny had written a different path. Suleiman bin Abdul Malik fell ill. His sons were still young; they donned long robes and were armed in an attempt to project an air of greatness, yet their aspirations remained unfulfilled. Suleiman looked at his children in astonishment and said, “The most fortunate is the one whose sons are adults and capable.” “Raja bin Hayat,” who had been anticipating this moment, suggested that Umar bin Abdul Aziz succeed Suleiman, and this recommendation was accepted.
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