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The second Caliph of Islam, Amirul Mu'minin Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) was a legendary leader in the history of Islam. His reign of about ten and a half years was a golden age for the Muslim Ummah. Starting from military victories, his contribution to good governance, public welfare, justice and administrative reforms was unparalleled. His leadership qualities were so unique that they are still followed in various leadership studies and administrative policies around the world. Here are 4 extraordinary qualities of his leadership:
1. Justice and Accountability:
The most brilliant aspect of Umar's (RA) leadership was his uncompromising justice. He applied equal laws to everyone, rich and poor, powerful and weak. There was no place for nepotism or favoritism in his life. He did not hesitate to pass the harshest judgment even on his own family or close friends. He used to say, "If any of my Ummah is hungry, I will be responsible for him before Allah on the Day of Judgment."
He was ready to answer to the people. He often mixed with the common people to listen to their problems. His famous saying, "If even a kid dies on the banks of the Euphrates River due to hunger, then Umar will have to answer for it on the Day of Judgment" – which is a perfect example of his accountability and public welfare rule. He kept a close watch on the officials and took immediate action if they were found to be corrupt or unjust.
2. Empathy and Direct Engagement with the People:
Umar (RA) was not just a ruler, he was a humanitarian leader. He used to roam around in disguise at night to know the sufferings of the people. He would feed the hungry, serve the sick and stand by the side of the troubled. Once he went to a woman who was boiling pieces of stone to satisfy the hunger of her children in need. Umar (RA) helped them by carrying a sack of flour on his shoulder.
This direct contact of his earned the trust and love of the people. He believed that a true leader is one who understands the needs of his subjects and works for them. During his rule, people could fearlessly express their grievances, because they knew that Umar (RA) would listen to them and do justice.
3. Visionary Administrative Skills and Reforms:
Umar (RA) was a visionary administrator. He introduced numerous administrative reforms to effectively manage the vast expanse of the Islamic empire.
Diwan System: He introduced the first 'Diwan' (administration or department), which is an early form of the present ministerial system. Through it, a well-organized system of revenue collection, military expenditure and spending money for the welfare of the people was introduced.
Judicial Independence: He ensured the independence of judges and increased their salaries so that they could administer justice impartially and impartially.
Introduction of the Hijri calendar: He introduced the Hijri calendar, which is the basis of the calendar of the Muslim world.
Public welfare projects: He undertook projects such as digging roads, bridges, canals for the benefit of the people, building inns for travelers, and even providing allowances for the elderly and disabled.
Military organization: He formed regular infantry and cavalry units in the military and established cantonments.
4. Firmness and Humility:
Umar (RA) was uncompromisingly strict in his principles and ideals, but was very humble in his personal life. He courageously stood up against injustice and injustice. His strictness instilled fear in criminals and was helpful in establishing discipline. At the same time, he was very humble. He wore simple clothes, avoided luxurious living, and never used his power for his own personal gain.
These four qualities—justice, compassion for the people, far-sighted administrative skills, and a wonderful combination of severity and humility—established him as a legendary and successful ruler. Umar (RA)'s leadership qualities have continued to inspire generations.
