BIOGRAFI KHALIFAH UTSMAN BIN AFFAN

Summary

Uthman bin Affan, the third caliph of Islam, was born in 576 CE and became one of the first to embrace Islam. Renowned for his generous nature, he was known as 'Dhul-Nurayn' after marrying two daughters of the Prophet Muhammad. Uthman played a crucial role in expanding the Islamic Empire, including the significant codification of the Quran to preserve its integrity. Despite his achievements, his reign saw accusations of nepotism, leading to a rebellion that resulted in his tragic assassination in 656 CE. His legacy includes substantial charitable contributions, such as a foundation for orphans and the poor.

Takeaways

• 😀 Uthman bin Affan was born in 576 CE, the fifth year after the birth of Prophet Muhammad, and belonged to the prominent Umayyad clan.
• 😀 His father was Affan bin Abi al-Ash and his mother was Arwa bint Kurayz, both of whom were descendants of Abdu Manaf, the great-grandfather of Prophet Muhammad.
• 😀 Uthman was one of the early converts to Islam and is considered part of the 'As-Sabiqun al-Awwalun', the group of the first Muslims.
• 😀 Uthman was married to two of Prophet Muhammad's daughters, Ruqayyah and Umm Kulthum, earning him the title 'Dhun Nurayn' (Possessor of Two Lights).
• 😀 He was known for his character traits of modesty, generosity, patience, and kindness, making him a beloved companion of the Prophet.
• 😀 Uthman was among the wealthiest companions of the Prophet, frequently donating his wealth to the causes of Islam.
• 😀 During the Battle of Tabuk, Uthman contributed heavily, donating 950 horses and logistical support, as well as 1600 dinars.
• 😀 Uthman served as the Caliph for 12 years, from 644 CE to 656 CE, marking the longest reign in early Islamic history.
• 😀 Under Uthman’s leadership, the Islamic empire expanded significantly, including regions such as Kabul, Armenia, and parts of Asia and Africa.
• 😀 One of Uthman’s most significant achievements was the codification and standardization of the Qur'an to preserve its integrity across the rapidly expanding empire.
• 😀 Uthman also oversaw the expansion of the Prophet's mosque in Medina and its renovation using stones, significantly enlarging its area.
• 😀 Despite his contributions, Uthman faced accusations of nepotism, with claims that he appointed many family members to positions of power, which led to growing dissatisfaction and ultimately his assassination by rebels in 656 CE.

Q & A

Who was Uthman bin Affan?

Uthman bin Affan was a prominent companion of Prophet Muhammad and the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate. He was born in the 5th year of Prophet Muhammad's birth, around 576 CE.

What was Uthman bin Affan's family background?

Uthman was from the Umayyad clan, part of the Quraysh tribe. His father was Affan bin Abi al-‘Ash, and his mother was Arwa bint Kurayz, making him closely related to Prophet Muhammad through both paternal and maternal lines.

How did Uthman bin Affan become a Muslim?

Uthman converted to Islam through Abu Bakr As-Siddiq, one of the first converts. He was part of the earliest group to accept Islam, known as 'As-Sabiqun Al-Awwalun' or 'the first to embrace Islam'.

Why was Uthman bin Affan known as 'Dhun-Nurayn'?

Uthman was given the title 'Dhun-Nurayn', meaning 'The Possessor of Two Lights', because he married two daughters of Prophet Muhammad: Ruqayyah and Umm Kulthum.

What were some of Uthman bin Affan's key qualities?

Uthman was known for his good manners, modesty, patience, generosity, and his strong sense of honor. He was also renowned for his humility and commitment to Islam.

What was Uthman bin Affan’s contribution to the Islamic community during his caliphate?

Uthman expanded the Islamic empire significantly, reaching regions like Kabul, Armenia, and Tunisia. He also ordered the codification of the Quran to preserve its authenticity.

What significant infrastructure project did Uthman bin Affan undertake in Medina?

Uthman bin Affan expanded the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, increasing its size by 470 square meters, and it was built with stone instead of mud.

How did Uthman bin Affan contribute to the preservation of the Quran?

During his rule, Uthman ordered the compilation and standardization of the Quran into a single, uniform text to prevent variations and discrepancies as the Islamic empire expanded.

What controversy surrounded Uthman bin Affan’s leadership?

Uthman faced accusations of nepotism, as he appointed many of his relatives from the Umayyad clan to high governmental positions. This led to significant dissatisfaction among some factions.

What were the circumstances surrounding Uthman bin Affan's death?

Uthman was assassinated in 656 CE by rebels who were unhappy with his leadership. His death marked the beginning of significant unrest and divisions within the Islamic community.