Known as al-Farooq (one who distinguishes truth from falsehood).
Exceptional in his faith, well known for his knowledge, dignified in his manners, upholder of justice, and unique in his leadership.
The book discusses the inspiring life of Umar al-Khattab (ra) from his birth until martyrdom. By dividing his life into seven chapters, which are as follows:
- Umar (ra) in Makkah
- Umar’s Spiritual Upbringing Under the Guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah
- Abu Bakr’s Appointment of Umar (ra) as his Successor
- Government Finance and the Judiciary During the Era of Umar’s Caliphate
- The Jurisprudence of Umar ibn Al-Khattaab in Dealing with the Governors
- Conquests in Iraq and the East during Umar’s Reign
- Conquests in Ash-Shaam, Egypt and Libya during Umar’s Reign
In introduction, the author summarizes the life of this exemplary leader and the second caliph, with these words:
“The life of al-Fârooq Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra) is a shining page of Islamic history, which outshines and supercedes all other histories. The history of all nations put together does not contain even a part of what his life contained of noble conduct, glory, sincerity, jihad and calling others for the sake of Allah. So I began to study his life and times in the reference books and sources, and I analyzed it, verified it and put it in order so that it would become accessible to the da’iyahs, khateebs, scholars, politicians, thinkers, military commanders and rulers of the ummah, as well as the seekers of knowledge and the general public, so that they may benefit from it in their lives by following his example, and that Allah may bestow upon them success in this world and in the Hereafter.”
Truly, the life of Umar (ra) is a source of motivation, faith, bravery and correct understanding of Islam for the entire Ummah.
I would highly recommend this book to every Muslim and aspiring leader to read and appreciate the bright period of Islamic history and learn the art of sincerity, bravery and justice from the life of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (ra).
