The Heroic Characteristics of the four caliphs -Md Sazzadul Islam

The first four caliphs of Islam, known as Khulafay Rashidin or Rashidun Khalifa, are Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), Hazrat Omar (R.A.), Hazrat Osman (R.A.), and Hazrat Ali (R.A.). They assumed the responsibilities of the caliphate successively, from the death of the Prophet (PBUH) in 632 AD to 661 AD. They are commonly referred to as the Rashidun Khalifa in Islam, where ‘Rashidun’ signifies those who follow the rules of life correctly.

When highlighting the greatest achievement of Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), it is imperative to mention that he saved the Islamic world from destruction and the clutches of false prophets. Under the leadership of Hazrat Umar (R.A.), the Muslim world experienced expansion. Hazrat Usman (R.A.) is credited with preserving the written version of the Holy Quran accurately. Hazrat Ali (R.A.) is remembered for his legacy as both a general and a wise ruler, which made him a ruler of exceptional characteristics.

During Hazrat Osman’s (R.A.) 12-year reign, some signs of administrative weakness emerged in the last few years, partly due to his advanced age, which somewhat impaired his ability to govern with a firm hand. Nevertheless, all four caliphs demonstrated efficient, welfare-oriented, and knowledge-based liberal governance. A primary argument for their suitability as rulers since the Prophet’s (PBUH) death is their consistent consideration as exemplary leaders by their contemporaries.

Despite being the youngest, Hazrat Ali (R.A.) was the proposed claimant for the caliphate on the first three occasions and was nominated as the caliph on the fourth. The rules and lives of the Caliphs embody the essence of Rashidun. For instance, Hazrat Abu Bakr’s (R.A.) instructions to his general during the Egyptian campaign—to avoid destroying religious institutions and crop fields—align with contemporary international human rights principles. Hazrat Ali’s (R.A.) letter to Malik Ibn Harith Ashtari, the future governor of Egypt at the time, remains a guide for governance. The Islamic Foundation of Bangladesh circulated a paper that included the following commentary:

“You will remember, Allah, that this handful of privileged classes are the scum of human society. They are the people who are the greatest burden on the state in times of prosperity, the least useful in times of need and crisis, the most resistant to equity, and the least considerate regarding their claims on state resources. They are never satisfied with favors bestowed; they are the most ungrateful for all favors; when their claims are rightfully ignored, they are the most intransigent and unwilling to accept the reasons behind them; when times and fortunes change, they are found to be the least steadfast in their beliefs; they are the biggest drain on society’s resources. In contrast, the common man, the poor, and the underprivileged are the pillars of Islam. They are the real strength of Muslim society. They act as ever-vigilant soldiers against the enemies of Islam. Therefore, open your heart to them, become more friendly with them, and gain their sympathy and trust.”

Hazrat Umar’s (R.A.) adherence to justice and the rule of law is still cited as exemplary. He did not exempt even his own son from punishment, administering 80 lashes for drinking. The son’s subsequent illness and death serve as a poignant testament to his commitment to justice. Hazrat Osman’s (R.A.) simplicity and generous contributions to Islam are well documented. For instance, he purchased a well from a Jewish man who was selling water at high prices and made it accessible to everyone. After becoming caliph, he managed his family’s needs modestly with the small amount allocated from the Baitulmal.

The four caliphs of Khulafay Rashidin were close relatives of the Prophet (PBUH) and had intimate associations with him. Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) and Umar (R.A.) were his fathers-in-law, while Hazrat Osman (R.A.) and Ali (R.A.) were his sons-in-law. Despite the age difference, Hazrat Ali (R.A.), who was 30 years younger, grew up in the Prophet’s (PBUH) household. The other three caliphs were closer in age to the Prophet. They were all companions who migrated to Madinah and belonged to the Quraysh tribe. Except for Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), the others were martyred, demonstrating their devotion to duty over personal preservation. Except for Hazrat Osman (R.A.), who lived to be 80/81 years old, the remaining caliphs died or were killed at around the age of 61 or 62, which is notable given that they did not outlive the Prophet (PBUH) by a significant margin. Their active and dedicated lives affirm the Rashidun Khalifa’s as fitting leaders of their time.