Glorious Muslim Warriors: A brief look through history

Umar Ibn Khattab, known for his strong leadership and dedication to justice, was the second caliph of the Muslim world. His reign, marked by significant military expansion and socio-political reforms, makes him one of the most impactful figures in Islamic history.

Who was Umar Ibn Khattab?

Umar Ibn Khattab was born around 583 A.D. in Mecca. He learned to read and write in his early life. In his youth, he demonstrated superior ability in numerous sports, including wrestling, riding, and horsemanship. He also enjoyed poetry. Before embracing Islam, Umar was not supportive of it and even went as far as threatening the life of Prophet Mohammad (SAW). He was steadfast and harsh in his opposition against the Messenger (SAW) and played a leading role in the persecution of Muslims. His conversion to Islam is a truly fascinating story.

Conversion to Islam

In the early years of Islam, Muslims were being harassed by the Quraysh in Mecca. Umar became deeply concerned when a tiny unit of Muslims relocated to Abyssinia. His anxieties were centered around the potential disunity among the Quraish. As a potential solution, Umar decided to assassinate Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.). However, during his journey to carry out this act, he encountered his friend, Nuaim bin Abdullah. Abdullah had secretly adopted Islam but hadn't informed Umar about it yet.
Abdullah advised Umar to check out his own household first, revealing that Umar's sister and her husband had converted to Islam. When Umar arrived home, he found his brother-in-law and his sister reciting verses from Surah Taha (the 20th Surah/chapter of the Quran). Bursting into an argument with his brother-in-law, Umar's confrontation soon included his sister, who stepped in to protect her husband.
However, their united stance against Umar was rock-solid: even under the threat of death, they wouldn't abandon Islam. Umar was angered by their resistance and their refusal to give up Islam. When he realized he could not force them into giving up Islam, he calmed down and asked them to show him what they were reciting. His sister asked him to purify himself with wudu and then shared verses of Surah/Chapter Ta'ha with him. Immediately, his heart felt a change, and he accepted Islam by reciting the Shahadah.

Umar Ibn Khattab: A Distinguished Muslim Caliph and Leader

Military conquests of Umar's era. (2023, August 26). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_conquests_of_Umar%27s_era

Umar Ibn Khattab's life and leadership are remembered with great reverence in Islamic history. His commitment to righteousness, justice, and the advancement of the Muslim community paved the way for an Islamic golden age.
His actions continue to inspire Muslims around the world, serving as a guiding light for just and moral leadership. Umar Ibn Khattab was a transformative leader whose impact transcended borders and time. The values he stood for, coupled with his administrative genius, laid a solid foundation for the Muslim empire's prosperity, earning him a distinguished place in Islamic history.
Umar Ibn Khattab's story shows us that great things can happen when you've got a strong leader who's really committed to fairness. How can we use what Umar Ibn Khattab taught us in today's world? To answer that one, we need to adopt his values of being fair, treating everyone as equals, and helping out in the community.

• Not limiting his attention to military matters, Umar Ibn Khattab also made critical improvements in the administrative system. He established the 'Bait-ul-Maal' (House of Wealth), an early form of welfare state, handled public funds, and supported the welfare of Muslims. He introduced and implemented various key posts, such as the Chief Secretary, Military Secretary, Revenue Collector, Police Chief, and Treasury Officer, among others. This structure laid the foundation for future bureaucracies to run smoothly.

• Umar Ibn Khattab also introduced a judicial system that ensured the rule of law irrespective of social status, reflecting his commitment to justice and equality. Umar was an expert jurist and is best known for his fairness, both to Muslims and non-Muslims. This quality of his earned him the title of ‘Al-Farooq’ (the one who distinguishes between right and wrong).

• He was also the first ruler to appoint a police force to keep civil order.

• Under Umar Ibn Khattab's leadership, the Muslim caliphate witnessed unprecedented territorial expansion, stretching from Persia in the East to Egypt in the West. His well-organized army, known for its strict discipline and innovative military strategies, played a crucial role in his successful conquests. The holy city of Jerusalem was conquered by Muslims during his rule. His reign ended up covering the entire Sassanid Persian Empire and two-thirds of the Eastern Roman Empire.

• Umar Ibn Khattab as a Muslim Caliph

  After the death of the first Caliph, Abu Bakr As Siddiq, Umar Ibn Khattab was chosen as the leader of the Muslim Ummah. His reign, which lasted for ten years, was characterized by rapid expansion of the Muslim territory and transformative social changes.

  As Caliph of the Muslim Ummah, his achievements were vast and numerous. It'd be impossible to mention all of them, but we can certainly share a few of the major accomplishments:

  • He is credited with starting the Lunar Calendar (known as the Hijri Calendar), which is aligned with Prophet Mohammad's (S.A.W.) migration to Medinah.

Khalid ibn Walid

It is widely believed that Khalid ibn Walid, is among the most formidable warriors throughout history. The influence he had on the early Islamic period is enormous. Thanks to his military wit and strategic acumen, he laid the groundwork for a string of crucial Islamic victories, which drastically altered the map of the Arabian Peninsula.

Conversion to Islam

Born into one of Mecca's most respected clans, the Banu Makhzum, Khalid ibn Walid was a part of the city's ruling elite. His father, Walid ibn al-Mughira, was a prominent figure in pre-Islamic Arabian society, known for his wealth and political clout. Raised in this influential environment, Khalid grew up learning the craft of leadership, warfare, and diplomacy.

Khalid ibn Walid was not initially a follower of Islam and initially resisted the new monotheistic religion, even partaking in battles against the Muslims. However, he embraced Islam around the seventh year of the Hijrah (Islamic calendar). Khalid traveled to Medina, where he pledged his allegiance to the Prophet Muhammed (SAW), thus joining the growing community of Muslims and giving them strength.

'Sword of Allah'

Once Khalid converted to Islam, he first took charge of the Muslim army at the Battle of Mu’tah. Mu'tah is a place in present-day Jordan. This was the first time Muslims fought against a combined Byzantine and Ghassanid army during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammed (SAW) in the year 629 CE. Khalid assumed command after the three original leaders appointed by the Prophet (SAW) were martyred on the battlefield. Khalid ibn Walid not only managed a successful protective retreat but was also a fierce fighter who broke nine swords during the combat. His incredible bravery and skill on the battlefield earned him the prestigious title of ‘Saiyfullah‘, or the ‘Sword of Allah’ after this Battle.

Battle of Yarmouk

The Battle of Yarmouk was fought over the course of six days in August 636 CE. The Muslim army was led by Khalid ibn Walid, and the Byzantine army was under the command of Byzantine Emperor Heraclius. Fighting took place near the Yarmouk River in the Jordan Valley, and the battle was an important victory for the heavily outnumbered Muslim forces. When the two armies met, it was Heraclius’s intention to exercise caution and wear the Muslims down through a series of small encounters. But Khalid pulled them into a large-scale pitched battle. The Byzantines were forced to retreat in disorder as the Arabs assaulted them from behind while blowing sand into their faces. Many of the escaping Byzantine soldiers died after falling over a small ravine. The Battle of Yarmouk was Khalid’s greatest victory and ended Byzantine rule in Syria. This victory permanently shifted control in the Mediterranean region (Modern-day Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey) from the Byzantine Empire to the Muslim Caliphate.

In short, Khalid ibn Walid was one of history's most effective military leaders. He is renowned for his military skill, leading the Prophet's (SAW) forces as well as those of Abu Bakr and Umar ibn al-Khattab, the Prophet's and Rashidun Caliphate's immediate successors. He had the distinction of being undefeated in almost a hundred fights against the numerically stronger troops of the Byzantine Roman Empire, the Sassanid Persian Empire, and their allies. His quick conquest of Iraq under the Persian Empire and his conquest of Roman Syria within three years, from 633 to 636 CE, were his greatest strategic accomplishments.

A story of a legendary Muslim Warrior and Leader

Saladin was born in 1137 into the Ayyubid family. His name, Salāh-ud-Dīn translates to 'Righteousness of the Faith', an accurate description of a person famous for his piety and a strong commitment to his faith. His display of leadership and excellent strategic military knowledge led him to become the first Sultan (leader) of both Egypt and Syria in 1175.

The essence of Saladin's story is best captured through his conquests, which are nothing less than phenomenal. Renowned for his skills as a military strategist, Saladin was an influential figure during the Crusades, particularly during the Second Crusade.

Salah-ud-Din ibn Ayyub (Saladin)

A key example of a glorious Muslim leader would undoubtedly be Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, popularly known as Saladin (1137-1193 A.D.). Saladin was widely respected not only as a brave fighting hero but also for his noble and courteous behavior. He united the Muslim territories and drove the Christians out of Jerusalem, and yet, he won the admiration of his enemies. Saladin became a lasting symbol of noble virtues, a shining example of Islamic principles and values.

Exceptional Character and Leader

Perhaps the most awe-inspiring aspect of Saladin lies not in his warrior skills or the magnitude of his conquests, but in his character. Saladin was known for his kindness, respect for his enemies, and unwavering commitment to his faith. His chivalrous treatment of Richard I of England during the Third Crusade made him an enduring legend across faiths and continents.
Moreover, his focus on diplomatic solutions, empathy towards non-combatants, and drive to maintain unity among his people portrayed a purity of leadership rarely seen in history. The tale of Saladin is a tale of courage, faith, and exemplary leadership.

Saladin's Capture of Jerusalem: The Battle of Hattin

The capture of Jerusalem by Saladin is a pivotal event in the history of the Crusades. The Battle of Hattin, fought in 1187, marked a turning point in the conflict between the Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land.

The Background

To understand the Battle of Hattin, we must first grasp the historical context in which it occurred. Since the First Crusade in 1099, Jerusalem had been under Christian rule, with the establishment of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. However, tensions between the Christian and Muslim communities persisted, leading to frequent skirmishes and power struggles.

Saladin: An Unyielding Leader

Saladin, a remarkable military leader, emerged as a central figure in the conflict. He possessed sharp strategic acumen and a deep-rooted aspiration to reconquer Jerusalem for the Muslims. Saladin's unwavering determination and charismatic leadership brought a renewed sense of unity among the various Muslim factions.

Saladin's capture of Jerusalem through the Battle of Hattin is a testament to his military prowess and unwavering determination. This pivotal battle marked a turning point in the Crusades and had far-reaching consequences. The Battle of Hattin remains a powerful symbol of Saladin's triumph and the steadfast resolve of the Muslim forces to regain control over Jerusalem. Saladin's conquests stretched far and wide, from Syria and Yemen to parts of North Africa and much of the Middle East, greatly expanding the horizons of the Ayyubid dynasty.

Fall of Jerusalem

Following their victory at Hattin, Saladin's forces swiftly advanced upon Jerusalem. With the Crusader army vanquished, they encountered minimal resistance, eventually recapturing the city on October 2, 1187. The reclamation of Jerusalem by the Muslims sparked jubilation among the Muslim population and dealt a profound blow to Christian morale. The fall of the Holy City served as a beacon of hope, uniting Muslims from all walks of life and reinvigorating their determination to defend their lands against the Crusaders.

The Battle of Hattin: A Decisive Struggle

1. Strategic Maneuvers

Saladin's forces strategically encircled and besieged the Crusaders' stronghold, Tiberias, which posed a significant threat to the Muslim territories. This move forced the Crusader army, led by Guy of Lusignan, to march towards Lake Tiberias, guided by the hope of finding a water source in the scorching desert.

2. Tactical Brilliance

Aware of the Crusaders' thirst and exhaustion, Saladin chose to engage them at the Battle of Hattin on July 4, 1187. The arid conditions and lack of water severely weakened the Christian troops, impairing their combat effectiveness. In contrast, Saladin's forces had meticulously prepared, securing access to water sources and positioning themselves advantageously.

3. Victory For Muslims

The battle unfolded in favor of the Muslims, thanks to Saladin's clever tactics and disciplined troops. The Crusader forces, suffering from dehydration and fatigue, were unable to withstand the relentless assaults. Eventually, Guy of Lusignan and over 200 Knights Templar fell into Saladin's hands, dealing a severe blow to the Crusaders.

Modern Day Jerusalem