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Hazrat Abu Bakr’s(R.A) Caliphate

Election:
While the final rites of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) were in progress, it was brought to the attention of Hazrat Umar that a
meeting had been called by Ansar at the Saqifa Banu Saida to elect a successor (caliph) to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). Hazrat
Umar hurried to the place accompanied by Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah. The Ansar had almost
declared the leader of the Khazraj tribe, Saad bin Ubada as the caliph.
Hazrat Abu Bakr at this point made a persuasive speech on why a Qurasih should now lead the Muslims. He reminded them a
Hadith of the Prophet (pbuh) in which he commanded that according to Arab tradition, the next leader after him should be
chosen from Quraish .
On hearing this convincing argument, another leader of the Ansar Khubaib bin Mundhar put forward the proposal for two
state solution, one led by a Muhajir(Quraish) and one by an Ansar. Hazrat Umar rejected this suggestion by saying that for the
solidarity of the Islamic state , there should be only one caliph.
At this point hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah said,
“O Ansar! you were the first to uphold Islam. Do not be the first to sow the seeds of dissention in it.” On hearing this, the
Ansar quickly withdrew their claim.
Hazrat Abu Bakr put forward the names of Hazrat Umar and Hazrat Abu Ubaydah bin Jarrah as caliph but Hazrat Umar
nominated Hazrat Abu Bakr as the political leader of a unified Muslims state based in Madina. Taking Hazrat Abu Bakr’s hand
Hazrat Umar took the pledge of loyalty to him. After Hazrat Umar and Hazrat Zaid ibn Sabit (from Ansar) took the oath of
loyalty, people from all sides rushed to pledge their loyalty to Hazrat Abu Bakr as the Holy Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) vicegerent.
The next day at Masjid al Nabvi a general oath of loyalty was taken by the Muslims. Hazrat Abu Bakr thus became the first
Caliph of Islam.
When Abu Bakr was elected he said“ O people! I have been selected as your Leader, although I am not better than
anyone of you. If I am right, obey me. If I am misguided, set me right. The weakest among you is powerful in my eyes, until
I do not get him his due. The most powerful among you is the weakest in my eyes, until I do not make him pay due rights
to others. I ask you to obey me as long as I obey Allah and His Messenger. If I disobey Allah and His Messenger, you are free
to disobey me”.
He adopted the title of “the successor of the messenger of Allah.”
Expedition to Syria
After assuming the Khilafat the first issue that Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A had to decide was whether or not the expedition to Syria,
should be sent. The Holy Prophet (P.B.H.H) had directed to send this expedition under the command of Usamah. The
circumstances had changed following the death of Holy Prophet (P.B.H.H).
At that critical stage in history most of tribes had apostatized from Islam, that is, they had abandoned their belief in Islam.
Madinah was surrounded by hostile tribes. It was suggested to Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A that it was not advisable to send the army
outside the country. Hazrat Abu Bakr said that according to the wish of Holy Prophet (P.B.H.H), the army should be sent to
Syria.
He said “Who am I to withhold the army that the Prophet (P.B.U.H) had ordered to proceed? Come what may, let Madinah
stand for fall; the Khilafat live or perish, the command of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) shall be carried out”.
Abu Bakr then directed the army to depart on this mission. He bade farewell to the army and addressed them in the following
terms:
“Do not kill children, women and old men. Do not cut down any trees wherein there is food for men and beasts. Do not molest
the monks in the churches”.
Towards the close of June 632 A.D, three weeks after the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) demise the army of Usamah left. After ten
days march the Muslim army attacked the border tribes. The Byzantine forces avoided this confrontation, as they were no
match for the Muslims. They were defeated and offered allegiance to the authorities at Madinah. The expedition proved to
be a great success. It secured the safety of the frontier with the Byzantines and averted the threat of any attack from them. It
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made the hostile tribes release that the Muslims were strong enough to meet any emergencies. Victorious, Usamah’s army
returned to Madinah. It demonstrated the strength and unity of the Muslims even in the absence of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H)
thus paving the way for the subsequent conquests of the Syrian and Egyptian regions both of which were conquered during
Usamah’s lifetime.
Refusal to pay Zakat
At that time, many tribes such as Banu Asad, Banu Ghatafan, Banu Abbas, Banu Murrah and other surrounded in Madina.
After the conquest of Makkah when other tribes in Arabia accepted Islam, These tribes also offered allegiance to Islam. This
allegiance was based on diplomacy rather than on faith and conviction of heart. They regarded Islam as a matter of personal
allegiance to the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) which ended with his death.
These tribes sent a deputation to Hazrat Abu Bakr with the proposal that with the passing away of the Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H), their agreement with Islam had ended and it was necessary that the authorities at Madina should make a fresh
agreement with them. They said that they would remain on friendly terms with the authorities at Madinah provided they were
relieved of the obligation to pay Zakat.
Abu Bakr was very strict on this point. He argued that Zakat being a fundamental injunction of Islam had to be paid. Addressing
the delegates, he said, “If with reference to Zakat, you withhold even as much as a string to tie a camel, as the Khalifa of
the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), it will be may duty to fight for it, whatever the consequences”.
When Hazrat Abu Bakr rejected the demand of the tribes to exempt them from the payment of Zakat they decided to forego
Islam rather than yield to the authority at Madinah. They decided to launch an attack on Madinah when the main Muslim
army was away in Syria.
These tribes one night launched an attack on Madina and met with some initial success but the Muslims under the command
of Hazrat Abu Bakr rallied and in a counter attack repulsed the tribes. Driven away from Madina the tribes gathered at Dhu
Qissa which was at little distance from Madina.
Hazrat Abu Bakr marched there as the head of a Muslim force and launched an attack against them. After some resistance
the tribes broke rank and retreated to Abraq. When the main Muslim army under Usama returned from the Syrian front
successfully, Hazrat Abu bakr marched at its head and proceeded to Abraq. The tribes were routed, and their lands were
confiscated by the Muslims. This was a significant moment in the caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr as after this victory the tribes
sent their delegates to Madina and not only offered allegiance to the caliph but expressed their willingness to pay Zakat as
well.
Apostasy Movement
The short Khilafat of Abu Bakr was mostly occupied with the so called Ridda (Apostasy) Wars. After the death of the Holy
Prophet (P.B.U.H) some people rebelled against the authorities at Madina and renounced or apostatized Islam.
Abu Bakr faced the situation calmly. Without any delay, He launched a campaign against this movement. He collected the
troops at Madina and divided them into eleven battalions. He placed each of the Battalion under the command of an
experienced commander and sent each into eleven different part of Arabia to fight against the false prophets and the tribes
that were helping them in these wars against the Muslims.
He instructed the commander; first two invite the revolting tribes to Islam. But if they failed to comply, they were to be
attacked. Some of the tribes submitted to Islam without fighting, while others remained adamant. So wars were waged against
them. Within a year, the control of Islam was established throughout the peninsula.

False Prophets:
After becoming caliph he had to deal with many difficulties but the most important was the rise of the false prophets which
resulted in apostasy movement and caused a threat to Islam.
(i) Al-Aswad al-‘Ansi: His name was Abhal ibn kaab al-Ansi He was the leader of the ‘Ansi tribe in Yemen.
His dark complexion earned him the title al-Aswad i.e. the black man, and he was also known as the veiled prophet
as he covered his face to hide his ughliness and to create a mystery about himself. Before claiming prophethood
al Aswad al-Ansihad tried his hand at soothsaying and magic and claimed he had knowledge of the unknown. In
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the later years of the Prophet’s (S.A.W) life, al-Aswad claimed to have received divine guidance and inspiration,
and he used tricks to convince the people of his ‘miracles’. After collecting a large army, he rose in open opposition
to Islam and invaded Najran and most of Yemen. killing Shahr the ruler of Yemen he forcibly married his widow
and declared himself ruler of Yemen and the leader of the Ans tribe. An expedition was organized and led by Firuz-
al-Dhalaymi, a Persian Muslim, who succeeded In killing al-Aswad a day before Prophet’s death . However,
learning of the Prophet’s demise, al-Aswad’s followers regrouped and revolted under a man called Qais ibn ‘Abd
Yaghus; they were defeated by Firuz and subsequently surrendered along with their leader.
(ii) Tulayha ibn Khuwaylid ibn Nawfal al-Asadi: He was the wealthy leader of the Bani
Asad and Ghatafan tribes in north Arabia, and was a renowned warrior who initially opposed the Muslims. In 630
he converted to Islam, but shortly afterwards he rebelled and proclaimed himself as a prophet. Many tribes
accepted his ‘prophethood’ and combined to raise a strong force against Islam. Khalid ibn al-Walid was sent to
quell this revolt and at the Battle of Buzakha in September 632, Tulayha was defeated and escaped to Syria while
most of his followers submitted and accepted Islam. Later, when Syria was conquered by the Muslim, he converted
to Islam once again, and subsequently fought alongside the Muslims in the battles of Jalula, Qadisiyah, and
Nihawand against the Persians.
(iii) Sajah bint-al Harith: She was an Arab Christian from the tribe of Taghlib and first enjoyed their
protection; following a split within the Banu Tamim, she had the protection of the Banu Hanifa. Sajah had a
following as a sooth- sayer, and after the death of Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W), when many of her tribesmen
rejected Islam, she declared herself as a prophetess. She collected a force of 4000 to march on Madina, but
learning of Tulayha’s defeat by Khalid ibn al-Walid, Sajah dropped her plans. She then sought the help of
Musailimah, another self-proclaimed prophet, and reached an agreement with him to face Khalid. Subsequently,
Sajah married Musailimah and accepted his prophethood. Meanwhile, Khalid ibn al-Walid crushed Sajah’s forces
and then moved against Musailimah who was killed in the Battle of Yamama. After Musailimah’s death, Sajah
became a Muslim.
(iv) Musailimah al-Kadhdab (The Liar): Known as Musailimah ibn Habib al-Hanafi, he
belonged to the large and influential tribe, Banu Hanifa, in the Yamama region to the east of the Arabian Peninsula.
Musailimah was also wealthy and powerful and he used his influence to misguide people and declared himself a prophet
during Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W) lifetime. In fact he had visited the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) in Madina and spent time in
his company.
Upon his return from Madina , Musalimah declared his prophethood and claimed to have received divine revelation. He
founded a new creed in which he reduced the number of daily prayers relieved his followers from the practicing of fasting
and giving zakat and made drinking and adultery permissible. He even wrote to the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) declaring himself
a ‘messenger of Allah’ and that he had been given a share with him in prophethood. Of course, his claims were firmly and
clearly rejected by Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W), who addressed him as an ‘arch-lair’.
After the death of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) Musailimah challenged Hazrat Abu Bakr’s caliphate. The battle of Yamama in
December 632, was the significant event that decided Musailimah’s fate. He was in command of an army of 40000. Hazrat
Abu Baker had first sent Ikrimah and shurabil ibn Hasanah and then sent a large force under the command of Khalid ibn
al-Walid to Yamama. The Muslims, numbering 13000, fought a long drawn out battle with many casualties as Musailimah’s
forces put up a strong resistance. Eventually, Musailimah was killed by Washi al-Harb---who had killed Hazrat Hamza in
the battle of Uhud before his conversion to Islam. Musailimah’s army scattered and many were killed as they fled. Many
prominent Muslims and huffaz---those who had memorized the Qu’ran---also lost their lives in this battle.

Battle of Yamama
After Prophet’s (pbuh) death, several false prophets arose in different parts of the Islamic state. Musailimah ibn Habib al-
Hanafi was the most dangerous one. He belonged to the large and influential tribe, Banu Hanifa, in the Yamama region to the
east of the Arabian Peninsula. Abu Bakr appointed Ikrimah as the commander of one of the corps. Ikrimah's orders were to
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advance and make contact with the forces of Musaylimah at Yamamah, but not to get involved in battle with him. Khalid ibn
al-Walid was chosen to command the forces apposing Musaylima after he dealt with other smaller apostates. Ikrimah
advanced with his corps and established a camp somewhere in the region of Yamamah.
The next development that Ikrimah heard of was that Shurahbil bin Hasanah was marching to join him. Shurahbil too had
been given a corps by the Caliph with orders to follow Ikrimah, and await further instructions. In a few days Shurahbil would
be with him. Ikrimah could wait no longer, and he set his corps in motion. This happened at the end of October 632 (end of
Rajab, 11 Hijri). He was defeated by Musaylimah. Shurahbil remained in the region of Yamamah. To ensure that he did not fall
into the error of Ikrimah, Abu Bakr wrote to him: "Stay where you are and await further instructions."
A few days before Khalid's arrival Shurahbil had given in to the same temptation as Ikrimah; he had advanced and clashed
with Musaylimah, but was defeated. Khalid got news that Musaylimah was encamped in the plain of Aqraba with an army of
40,000 warriors. The two successful actions fought by them against Ikrimah and Shurahbil had increased their confidence in
themselves and created an aura of invincibility around Musailimah.
Khalid marched south from Bhtaha to the valley of Yamama with the force of 13000 men and was met by Musailmah on the
plain of Aqraba. After a fierce fight the Muslims forces had to retreat and there was much jubilation in Musalimah’s camp.
Though Khalid had been forced to withdraw, he refused to admit defeat. He regrouped the army under tribal commanders.
He created a reserved force of the one thousand cavalry and kept them under his personal command.
The next day the two armies faced each other in headlong attack.
While the front rank of two armies grappled with each other in single combat, Khalid led the cavalry reserve to the mounds
where Musailmah was camped. The boldness of Khalid’s move took the opposition completely by surprise. Musailmah’s
bodyguards fought bravely but they could not hold guard for long. As Khalid increased his pressure Musalimah lost his nerve
and retreated into a neighboring fortified garden.
With the withdrawal of Musalimah, his army lost the will to fight and they too found safety in seeking refuge in the garden.
The garden was surrounded by a huge wall and the fugitives closed the gate thus shutting access to the perusing Muslims. The
Muslims were anxious to get into the garden and finish the job.
Soon a Muslim soldier Al Baraa ibn Malik asked his fellow men to let him climb the wall so that he could open the gate by
killing the guards there. The soldier jumped in to the garden and opened the gate. The Muslims entered the garden and the
last phase of the Battle of Yamamah had begun.
The Muslim army engaged in a fierce battle with Musalimah’s troops. So bloody was the battle of Garden that in Arab annals
it came to be known as The Battle of Death.
When Musailmah was finally killed by Wahshi al Harb who had killed Hazrat Hamza in the battle of Uhad the Banu Hanifa
surrendered and accepted the offered terms and were readmitted to the fold of Islam. Many prominent Muslims and huffaz
also lost their lives in this battle. Hazrat Abu Bakr after defeating the false Prophets turned his attention to the uprising in
Bahrain, Oman, Mahrah and Hadramaut.
Compilation of Quran
During the time of the Prophet (pbuh) the Qur’an was written on pieces of animal skin and on parts of bone but was mainly
memorised by the companions. At the time of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) death no official copy of the Quran existed.
• After becoming caliph, Hazrat Abu Bakr waged a war against the false prophet Musailima and many companions who
had committed the Holy Quran to memory were martyred in that battle known as the battle of Yamamah.
• Hazrat Umar suggested to Hazrat Abu Bakr that the Quran should be compiled. Hazrat Abu Bakr, however, hesitated
and said that he would not do the job left unfinished by the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). According to Hazrat Abu Bakr, “Umar
went on persuading me to accept his suggestion till I was convinced that he was right so I accepted his suggestion.”
• Hazrat Abu Bakr asked Zaid bin Sabit, one of scribes of Divine revelation to collect the Quranic verses from every part
of the Islamic empire and compile them in book form. He was also reluctant but Abu Bakr persuaded him. Zaid later remarked,
“It would have been easier to carry a mountain on my shoulders, than to compile the Quran.”
• A commission was appointed headed by Zaid Bin Sabit and its members comprised at least twenty or twenty five
companions who had committed the Quran to memory. Zaid Bin sabit traced out and collected the chapters of the Quran from
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every person who had it in their possession. He collected it from palm leaves, stones, and pieces of wood and people who had
committed it to memory.
➢ Zaid Bin Sabit was not content just finding a written piece of the Quran.
➢ He also verified it from those people who had heard it from the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H).
➢ Though he himself was a hafiz of Quran, he always tried to find a verse in writing before including it in his manuscript,
➢ He did not accept any part without two witnesses to it.
➢ The verses were written in the order that the Prophet (pbuh) had given, but the surahs were written on separate
sheets.
so that version of the Quran he recorded was the one heard from and written under the supervision of the Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H).
The script prepared by Zaid Bin Sabit was named “Mushaf” by Abdullah bin Masood. It remained with Abu Bakr and after
his death
Administration:
Hazrat Abu Bakr laid the foundation of a truly democratic state following the teachings of the Quran and the traditions of the
Prophet (P.B.U.H).
• Abu Bakr conducted affairs of the Government by consultation. He used to consult eminent companions in all
important matters.
• For the purpose of administration, Arabia was divided into provinces each under a governor, who was required to
lead the prayers, superintended the army, collect taxes, administer justice, and maintain law and order. He was aided
by an Amil who collected revenues and a Qazi who administered justice.
• There was no regular police department at that time, but whenever any crime came into his notice, he took strict
action against in the light of Quran and the Hadith.
• Abu Bakr selected all his officers, commanders and governors on their merit and not because of family or tribal
consideration.
• He set up a strict standard of accounting of public money. He also gave proper shape to the public treasury, the Bait-
ul-Maal.
• He established military cantonments and maintained a reserve force. He dispatched expeditionary forces to Iran,
Syria and Palestine. As a result, vast territories were added to Muslim Empire.
• He safeguarded and protected the rights of non-Muslim subjects who were granted religious and cultural freedom.
They were allowed to manage their affairs themselves.
• By his efficient administration he preserved the integrity of Islam by suppressing rebellions and making sure that the
Pillar of zakat was enforced.
• Hazrat Abu Bakr’s caliphate was also significant for the preservation of the Quran.
Main events/ Achievements of Caliphate:
Abu Bakr was elected as the first caliph of the Islamic state after a meeting in Saqifa Bani saida and with the general
bayyat of Muslims in Masjid e Nabwi in 11A.H/632A.D. He addressed the community and pledged that the state will be
governed according to Islamic principles.
He continued Prophet’s intention of sending expeditions to North and sent Usama bin Zayd to Syria in 632AD despite
all the opposition and threats. It shows that he was obedient to the Prophet’s command and he continued the policy of the
expansion of the Islamic state. Later another force under Khalid bin Walid advanced into Iraq and then turned west into
Palestine to defeat the Byzantines at the battle of Ajnadain 13 AH/634AD. In this way Abu Bakr began Muslim advance into
Syria and Iraq.
He fought against tribes who withheld zakat and apostatized Islam. At that time many hostile tribes such as Banu
Asad, Banu Ghatafan, Banu Murrah and Banu Abbas sent their delegates to Madina and demanded that they should be
exempted from the payment of Zakat. Abu Bakr remained firm and rejected their demand. These tribes attacked Madina in
632 AD but eventually they were defeated and agreed to pay Zakat.
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Under the influence of the false prophets many tribes renounced Islam. Abu Bakr collected the army in Madina and
divided it into eleven battalions and sent them to different parts of Arabia in order to crush the apostasy movement. Within
a year the control of Islam was reestablished.
After Prophet’s death several false prophets arose in different parts of the Islamic state.
• Of these Aswad al Ansi from Ansi tribe, was first to rise in Yemen. He was killed during Prophet’s lifetime. Later, his
followers grouped and revolted under a man called Qais bin Abd Yaghus, but eventually they were defeated.
• Tulayha from the tribes of Banu Asad and Banu Ghatafan in Northern Arabia. In 630 AD he converted to Islam but
shortly afterwards he rebelled and proclaimed himself as a prophet. Khalid bin Waleed defeated him at the battle of
Buzaka in September 632 AD.
• Sajjah from Banu Tamim tribe in Iraq she claimed to be a prophetess and collected a force of 4,000 to march on
Madina. Khalid bin Waleed crushed her forces. She then joined Musailma and after his death accepted Islam.
• And the most dangerous one Musailma from Banu Hanifa tribe in central Arabia. he was in command of an army of
40,000. In December 632 AD Abu Bakr first sent Ikrmah and Shurabil. when they were defeated then he sent Khalid
bin Waleed with an army of 13,000 men . A hot contest followed in which Muslims were victorious. It came to be
known as the battle of Garden of Death. This battle led to the compilation of Quran.
Hazrat Abu Bakr laid the foundation of a truly democratic state following the teachings of the Quran and the traditions of the
Prophet (P.B.U.H).
Abu Bakr conducted affairs of the Government by consultation. He used to consult eminent companions in all important
matters.
For the purpose of administration, Arabia was divided into provinces each under a governor, who was required to lead
the prayers, superintended the army, collect taxes, administer justice, and maintain law and order. He was aided by an
Amil who collected revenues and a Qazi who administered justice.
There was no regular police department at that time, but whenever any crime came into his notice, he took strict action
against in the light of Quran and the Hadith.
Abu Bakr selected all his officers, commanders and governors on their merit and not because of family or tribal
consideration.
He set up a strict standard of accounting of public money. He also gave proper shape to the public treasury, the Bait-ul-
Maal.
He safeguarded and protected the rights of non-Muslim subjects who were granted religious and cultural freedom. They
were allowed to manage their affairs themselves.
By his efficient administration he preserved the integrity of Islam by suppressing rebellions and making sure that the Pillar
of zakat was enforced.
He arranged for a compilation of Quran at the suggestion of Hazrat Umar when many memorisers of Quran were martyred in
the battle of Yamama against Musailima and appointed Zaid bin Sabit along with 20 to 25 scribes to accomplish this task.
First copy was named Mushaf by Abullah bin Masood.
He died in 13 AH/634 AD.
 Questions from Past Papers
 O/N 2009
3. (a) Describe Abu Bakr's activities against the false prophets and apostate tribes. [10]
 O/N2011
3. (a) Describe the main events of the caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr. [10]
 O/N 2012
4. (a) Write about the election of Abu Bakr as caliph and how he dealt with the false prophets
during his reign. [10]
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 M/J 2014
3. (a) Write a detailed account of the four false prophets, and how the caliph Abu Bakr defeated
them. [10]
 O/N 2014
3 (a)Write an account of the Battle of Yamama fought during the caliphate of Abu Bakr. [10]
 M/J 2015
5(a)Write about any two major events that took place during the caliphate of Abu Bakr.[10]
 M/J 2016
3. (a) Write a detailed account of the battle of Yamama, and of the compilation of the Qur’an
during the caliphate of Abu Bakr. [10]
 O/N 2017
3(a) Write a detailed account about the election and administration of Abu Bakr. [10]
 M/J 2018, O/N 2019
3(a) Write a detailed account of Abu Bakr’s achievements as Caliph. [10]
 O/N 2018
4(a). Write an account of the campaign led by Abu Bakr against the tribes refusing to pay Zakat.
[10]
 O/N2020
3(a). Write an account of how Abu Bakr led the Islamic empire when he became the first caliph.
[10]
 M/J 2021(21)
3(a) Write an account of the false prophet Musailimah and the battle fought against him in
632.[10]
 M/J 2021(22)
3(a) Give an account of the election of Abu Bakr and the expedition he sent to Syria soon after
becoming caliph.[10]

Unseen Topics
3 (a) Trace the expansion of the Islamic empire under the rule of the caliph ‘Abu Bakr. [10]
The Islamic state under Hazrat Abu Bakr was surrounded by the two great Empires. On its northeastern side was the Border
of Persian Empire while the Northern part of the peninsula was bordered by the Byzantine Empire (the Eastern Roman Empire).
It consisted of Syria, Palestine and Egypt.
The Persian Empire wanted to wipe out the Muslims who in turn felt endangered by the Persian threat. Hazrat Abu Bakr also
wanted to spread Islam and so taking advantage of the unrest in Persia. Muslims made raids on various part of Persian Empire.
In 632 AD, the Kindi tribe in Hadramount broke into revolt and refused to pay taxes. Hazrat Abu Bakr directed an army to
Hadramount. The apostates were killed and others surrendered. In the same year the Battle of Kazima took place in Eastern
Iraq.Hazrat Abu Bakr sent an army under Khalid Bin Waleed. Four other columns under different commanders also proceeded
to reinforce the Muslim Army. Khalid Bin waleed invited Hurmuz, the Persian commander to accept islam, pay Jizya or engage
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in combat. He agreed to fight and set out from Uballa to Kazima. The Persians were linked in chains and because of the heavy
Muslim attack, they retreated. Due to the chains they were trapped and suffered defeat.
After the Battle of chains (Kazima), some other small Skirmishes took place to Mazar, Walaja, Ullies, Anbar, and Enat-Tamar
in which the Muslims defeated the Persians one after the other. After these Conquest, Khalid Bin waleed conquered Hira,
Damat-Ul-Jandal and Firadalso. After the fall of Hira, thae whole of South and most of North Iraq was conquered and the
Persians subdued.
Byzantines began to conspire against the Muslims in co-operation of Bedouin tribes on the Syrian border. Hazrat Abu Bakr
raised a big army and divided into four corps each comprising of 7000 men. They were given under command of Amr Bin Aas,
Yazeed Bin Abu Sufyan, Shurabil Bin Hasanah and Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah. The first encounter of Muslims took place at Basra
in which Muslims were victorious. Then the Battle of Ajnadein took place. The byzantine Emperor, Heraclius sent an army of
250,000 men against the Muslims army of forty thousands. Again the Romans were badly defeated.
After this success, Muslims advanced towards Damascus and laid siege to it. In the meantime. Hazrat Abu Bakr fell ill and
died in August 634 AD. This campaign was left incomplete

Apostasy Wars:
Campaign in Bahrain:
During the lifetime of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) Mundhir the ruler of the Bahrain had accepted his invitation to Islam and
converted under his influence most of the people of Bahrain also accepted Islam. Mundhir died soon after the Holy Prophet
(P.B.U.H) and his death led to anarchy and chaos the people of Bahrain apostatized except for Jarud, the leader of Bahrain,
from the tribe of Banu Abdul Qais , who remained firm in the allegiance to Islam and dissuaded his tribe from apostasy .
However Munhiz a descendant of Arab kings of Hirah took over and pledged to fight against Islam.
Al-Hadrami the Muslim envoy to Bahrain left for Madina to seek help from Hazrat Abu Bakar and returned to Bahrain
with Muslim force. He had a ditch dug around his camp and waited for a suitable opportunity to overpower the enemy. One
night there was considerable noise from non-Muslim camp where they were celebrating their national festival and were
heavily intoxicated. Al-Hadrami ordered his forces to take up arms and cross the ditch and pounce upon the enemy. The
surprise attack unnerved the rebel who fell into disarray and were subdued by the pursuing Muslim forces. Munhiz’s men
laid down their arms and along people of the Bahrain were admitted into the fold of Islam.
Campaign in Oman, Marah and Hadramaut
In Oman a false Prophet Laquit bin Malik rose to prominence and capture political power. A Muslim force under Hudaifah
was sent to Oman. In battle of Daba, Laquit and ten thousand of his followers were killed. The Oman forces surrendered and
people of Oman joined the fold of Islam.
In Mahrah the people had apostatised but instead of fighting against Muslims they fought among themselves for
political power. The Muslim allied with minority and fought against the majority who were subsequently defeated. The
people of Mahrah repented and were reconverted to Islam
In Hudramaut there was revolt led by the tribe of Ash’as. When Muslims forced defeated them. They retreated to the
fortified city of Nujair. The Muslim army laid siege to the city which was finally captured in February 633.
Persians
The Battle of Chains:
khalid ibn al-Waleed was ordered by Hazrat Abu Bakar to proceed to the Persian border and four more battalions were sent
to reinforce the Muslim army. Upon reaching the border Khalid sent a letter to Hurmuz the Persian commander giving him
three options: accept Islam, pay jizya, or be prepared for war. Hurmuz an ambitious and confident commander accepted the
third option and collected his forces to meet Muslim army at Kazima. Upon arrival the Persian army had to immediately
engage in battle as Muslim army was already there, prepared to face Persians. The Persian soldiers are linked with chains to
encourage them to fight with unity and to prevent any soldier from retreating this was what gave battle its name. However
the chains had one drawback; in case of defeat the men could not retreat as chain acted as fetters. The Muslim attack was
ferocious and Persian were left with no choice but to retreat. Here their chains became a death trap for them. Tabari also
 9

writes about the chains restricting the Persian escape for whom this battle was humiliating defeat. Hurmuz along with
thousands of his soldiers was killed and the Muslims took many others as prisoners of war.
Following on from the battle of chains the Muslims forces defeated the Persians at Mazar, Walaja and Ulleis. After the
victory at Ulleis the Muslim army advanced to Hira where upon hearing of Khalid and his army, the governor with his men
abandoned the city and fled to Madina. With Hira under Muslim control the whole of Central Iraq came under the rule of
Caliphate.
Khalid Ibn al-Waleed now turned to Anbar, an important commercial center in Western Iraq. Walls and deep ditch protected
the city. khalid chose a narrow point to cross the ditch and then went on to slaughter the old and weak camels of the army
and filled with the ditch with their carcasses. Muslim army crossed over the pile of carcasses and attacked Anbar, whose
governor surrendered on the condition that the Muslim would allow them to withdraw in safety. After Anbar, another
fortified town, Enat-ul-Tamar was taken by the Muslim after a few days siege and the region came under Muslim rule.
Byzantines
Fall of Bostra
Hazrat Abu Bakr in February 634, called for a jihad to confront the Byzantines who were conspiring against the Muslims with
the Bedouin tribes on the Syrian border. A large army assembled in Madina response to Caliph Call. Hazrat Abu Bakar divided
the army into four units each consisting of 7000 men under Amr ibn al-Aas, Yazid ibn Abu Sufyan, Shurahbil ibn al-Hasanah
and Abu Ubaydah ibn al -Jarrah. These army fought successfully but when Heraclius came to know of his conflict he
despatched a large force under the command of his brother Theodorous. When Hazrat Abu Bakr heard of his development he
asked Khalid ibn al-Waleed who was then at Iraq border to join and lead the Syrian campaign khalid marched from Hira with
9000 of his best men and reached Syrian in 18 days a swift march in those time across an unrelenting desert terrain.
Instead of advancing to Damascus Khalid met the Muslim army under Shurahbil’s command at Basra and sent word to Abu
Ubaydah to join him there. When the Muslim army met the Byzantines khalid invited his commander Romanus to fold of
Islam; after discussing and understanding the different aspects of the faith Romanus accepted Islam. After this turn of
events, the Byzantine army lost courage they withdraw into city and locked the gates. Romanus then guided the Muslims
into the city through underground passage in the darkness of night. The Byzantine were killed in large number and the
surviving ones surrendered. The Battle of Basra was the first and most significant victory of the Muslims in Syria.
Battle of Ajnadayn
The Byzantine Emperor Heraclius in reaction to the defeat of Basra mobilised a huge force against Muslims in Ajnadayn.
Khalid ibn al-Waleed also ordered all the Muslim armies to assembled at Ajnadayn. The 40,000 strong Muslim drove wedges
in the Byzantine army once the fighting started; their commander was killed and Byzantine army retreated from the
battlefield .The Muslim pursued the fleeing army and killed a large number of them.
After their success in Ajnadayn, the Muslim army marched towards Damascus and were met by Byzantine forces a few miles
away. The Muslims were once again victorious and the remaining Byzantine force fled back into city. The Muslim army laid
siege to Damascus but did not proceed further as they received the sad news of Hazrat Abu Bakar passing away. Damascus
was finally conquered during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar the second Caliph.
3.(b) The Prophet called Abu Bakr ‘al-Siddiq’ (Testifier of the Truth). How did Abu Bakr live up to his title during
his caliphate? [4]
• During his caliphate, Abu Bakr fought to uphold the finality of the Prophet (pbuh) in the wars against the false
prophets;
• he refused to give in to the demands of those who wanted to be exempted from paying zakat and fought battles with
them, and
• he preserved the word of God by having the Qur’an compiled.
• Abu Bakr always stood by the truth and fought to maintain it, by which he lived up to the title of ‘al-Siddiq’ (Testifier
of the Truth) which the Prophet (pbuh) had given him when he was the first to believe the Prophet’s (pbuh) account
of mi’raj
(b). Why did Abu Bakr think it of great importance to defeat the false prophets? [4]
 10

If the false prophets were not defeated by Abu Bakr, the teachings of Islam could have been corrupted; the purity of the
religion would have been lost and many who called themselves Muslims in reality would be following a man made faith. The
first pillar of Islam would have been challenged as the second part of the Shahada which deals with risala (prophethood) and
finality of the Prophet Muhammad would be contradicted if one believed in the so called prophets after Muhammad so the
existence of the false prophets was a great threat to survival of Islam. The apostasy wars confirmed that the Muslim state was
one under the leadership of one Caliph.

(b). Why is Abu Bakr called the Saviour of Islam? [4]

He was called the Saviour of Islam because he fought to prevent the break-up of Islam. The false prophets and apostates
threatened the uniqueness and unity of Islam and could not be allowed to continue their activities. Hence when he became
Caliph he not only gave new heart to the Muslims after the Prophet (P.B.U.H) passed away but helped the community of
Muslims against its many enemies. In his short term as caliph he defeated the tribes who withdrew from Islam and made them
stay Muslim and he fought and won against tribes who refused to pay Zakat. He also defeated the false prophets and thus
kept the unity of Islam when there was much danger. His arrangements for the first compilation of Quran for the guidance of
future generations also make him the saviour of Islam.

3(b) What was the importance of this battle to future generations of Muslims?[4]
• Battle of Yamama marked the end of the false prophets and Abu Bakr could now establish the Islamic empire on a
firm footing.
• Musailimah was changing the key principles of Islam and with this battle the core teachings of Islam were saved from
being altered and corrupted.
• The first pillar of Islam would have been challenged as the second part of the Shahada which deals with risala
(prophethood) and finality of the Prophet Muhammad would be contradicted if one believed in the so called prophets
after Muhammad so the existence of the false prophets was a great threat to survival of Islam.
• Post-Yamama the Muslims were united as one and could go on to deal with other forces that were against Islam.
• The battle also led to the compilation of the Qur’an.
 1

Hazrat Umar’s (R.A) caliphate

Main Events/Summary of Caliphate:
O/N 2011
3 (a) Briefly describe the main events of the caliphate of Hazrat ‘Umar . [10]
Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab succeeded to the caliphate in 13 AH/634 AD. As well as the title ‘Successor of the
Successor of the Messenger of Allah.’ He also took the title of ‘Commander of the faithful’, ‘Ameer al Mu’mineen’.
He continued the expansion of Islam begun by the Prophet (pbuh) and Hazrat Abu Bakr and under his rule, Muslim army
gained control in Syria, Iraq, Persia and Egypt. A series of decisive battles brought these vast areas under Islamic rule.
In the Northeast, Persian Empire caused threat for the Islamic state. In October 634 A.D/14 A.H the battles of Namaraq and
Jasr were fought. In the battle of Jasr (Bridge) Muslims were defeated and their commander was killed. Muslims responded
back in November 634 A.D. When they fought against the Persians at Buwaib under Musanna, Muslims were victorious in
this battle and the Persians had to face heavy losses.
After this battle, Persians sent a large army .After a prolonged battle at Al Qadisiya in 15 AH/636 AD the out-numbered
Muslim army defeated the Persian. Muslim army advanced and captured Mada’in and Jalulah one after another and signed a
Treaty of peace with the Persians. Despite the treaty, the Persians continued their conspiracies against Islamic state.
Therefore, Muslims had to fight against them at Nihawand in 21 A.H./ 642 A.DIt was the last battle against the Persians which
sealed the fate of Persian Empire and the whole of Persia came under Muslim rule.
Muslims also had to fight against the Byzantines on the Northern borders because of their hostility against the Islamic
state.The Muslim commanders i.eKhalid bin Waleed, Amr bin al Aas and Abu Ubaidah bin al Jarrah defeated the Romans and
captured areas of Byzantine empire , which was the Eastern province of Roman empire. Muslim army laid siege to Damascus
till 635AD and then they had to fight against them in the battle of Fihl which resulted in the conquest of Jordan. Then Muslims
advanced and fought in the battle of Yarmuk in Palestine in 15 A.H/636 A.D. In October 636 AD Muslims recaptured Damascus
under Abu Ubaidah bin al Jarrah.
Meanwhile, Amr bin Aas laid siege to Jerusalem, Christians offered to surrender on the condition that the Caliph
himself should come to Jerusalem. This was accepted and Hazrat Umar signed an agreement that guaranteed safety and
security of the people of Jerusalem. Finally, Muslim army advanced under Amr bin Aas and laid a siege and after the battle of
Alexandria captured Egypt in 18 A.H. /639 A.D.
Hazrat Umar introduced many administrative reforms during his caliphate. He established a Majlis-e-Shura
consisting of prominent companions of the Holy Prophet. He also constituted a large body called the Majlis-e-
Aam consisting of Muhajirin and Ansar and representatives of various tribes. The state was divided into
provinces and each province was placed under an efficient governor called the Wali or the Ameer. The Wali
was not only the ruler of the province but also the military and religious head. Hazrat Umar entrusted the
Qazis with judicial functions. The Qazi was completely independent of the provincial governor. He also
established a department of finance under the name of Dewan. He made garrison towns in Basra and Kufa for
his soldiers. Pension was given to the retired soldiers. For implementation of Quranic teachings special steps
were taken such as regulation of Salat and fasting. He also started the Islamic Hijri calendar.

Administration
M/J 2011
3 (a) Write a detailed account of the administrative measures put in place by ‘Umar during
his caliphate. [10]
M/J 2015
 2

3 (a) ‘‘Umar’s caliphate is regarded as a golden era in Islamic history.’ Write an account of
how ‘Umar ruled during his ten year caliphate. [10]
M/J 2017
3(a) ‘Umar made several administrative reforms during his ten year caliphate. Write an account
of at least five of them and say how these reforms helped make his rule so admirable. [10]
Answer (Learn and write):
Hazrat Umar not only conquered a vast empire during the ten year of his Khilafat but also consolidated it by an
effective system of administration. As an administrator, he remained a model for all rulers who followed him and
his administrative reforms make his caliphate a golden period of early Islamic history. Despite being the ruler of a
mighty empire he lived a very simple life. Once he said about his salary from Bait ul Maal, “Nothing in Halal for me
and for my family from Allah’s money except a dress for summer and a dress for winter and a salary equal to the income of
an average Quraishi. I am no more than an ordinary Muslim amongst you.”
• Hazrat Umar framed the constitution of the state on the basis of democracy. He established the Majlis e
Shura consisting of prominent companions of the holy Prophet from both Muhajirin and Ansars. Hazrat
Umar consulted this body in all matters. He also constituted a larger body called the Majlis –e- Aam,
consisting of Muhajirin and Ansar and representatives of various tribes. This was called into session on
special occasions.
• Judiciary was established under the Qazi. He separated executive from judiciary. In this way he assured the
citizens swift and impartial justice. The judiciary was made completely independent and impartial. He was
displeased when a judge showed some respect to him when he appeared in his court as a defendant.
• He took steps to give the Islamic State a clean and efficient administration. The State was divided into
Provinces and each province was placed under an efficient Governor called the Wali or Ameer. The wali was
not only the ruler of the province but also the military and religious head. The provinces were furthers
divided onto districts and placed under Amils.
• The bait ul maal was created under Amils. After meeting the expenditure of the State, the surplus money
used to be distributed among the Muslims based on three principles: relationship with the holy Prophet;
priority of conversion to Islam and military services to Islam. In this way, all Muslim men, women, slaves and
children had share in the bait- ul- Maal or the public treasury. He made the government finances save from
misuse and kept corruption out of government.
• All appointments were made in consultations with the Majlis e Shura. The appointee was given a regular
order of appointment setting out his duties and emoluments. The person appointed to a high post was
required to give a written undertaking to lead a simple Islamic life. He had to submit particulars of his
property and assets, so that on his retirement, it may be seen whether he had amassed wealth by illegal
means. Hazrat Umar kept a very strict watch on the activities of his officers. He used to receive secret reports
from officers specially appointed for this purpose.
• Hazrat Umar set up a department of finance the Diwan, which was in charge of the revenue of the centre
and the provinces. The function of the Diwan was to regulate the receipt and disbursement of the caliphate’s
revenues which were generated from jizya, zakat, kharaj(tax levied on the land of non-Muslims) and fay
(income from crown lands). A tax called ushr was also levied on the produce of land. It is said that there was
so much economic prosperity during the caliphate of Hazrat Umar that there was hardly any citizen in need
of zakat .
 3

• Umar established new towns like Basra, Musal and Kufa. He made new highways, roads and out posts on
the roads. The conquered lands were surveyed. Umar made special effort for construction of Mosques and
schools. Teachers were sent to the villages to teach the Holy Quran to the villagers.
• He introduced the Muslim era of Hijra, the system of old age pension and census of the population of the
Muslims State. Thus he laid foundation for the development of modern cities.
• Hazrat Umar maintained a well-disciplined army which was divided into cavalry and infantry. He was
particularly concerned about welfare of his soldiers. He also forbade them to live with the settled people in
cities and ordered them to live in cantonments. They kept the armed forces content and happy and they
were happy to serve the caliphate.
• Umar paid special attention to the well-bieng of Dhimmis(minorities), and settled their matters in
consultation with their representative. He expelled Christians and Jews communities of Najran and Khayber,
when they refused to abide by his order..
Hazrat Umar stands unparalleled in every aspects of administration in the History of Islam.
Expansion of Islamic State
M/J 2009
3. (a) Trace the expansion of the Islamic empire under the rule of the caliph ‘Umar. [10]
Answer(Learn and write):
Hazrat Umar bin Khattab succeeded to caliphate in 13 A.H. / 634 A.D. He took the title of “Amir Ul
Momineen” (Commander of the faithful). He was a brave and straightforward person. He continued the expansion
of the Islamic state and during his caliphate the frontiers of Islamic state expanded greatly. The vast Ares of the
Roman and Persian empires were brought under Islamic rule. Muslim armies conquered Syria, Iraq, Persia and Egypt
after fighting a series of decisive battles.
In the Northeast, Persian Empire caused threat for the Islamic state. In October 634 A.D/14 A.H the battles of
Namaraq and Jasr were fought. In the battle of Jasr (Bridge) Muslims were defeated and their commander was
killed. Muslims responded back in November 634 A.D. When they fought against the Persians at Buwaib under
Musanna, Muslims were victorious in this battle and the Persians had to face heavy losses.
After this battle, Persians sent a large army of 60,000 under their famous commander Rustam. The report
of the new situation was sent to Hazrat Umar. He sent Saad bin Abi Waqas with an army of 30000. After a prolonged
battle at Al Qadisiya in 15 AH/636 AD the out-numbered Muslim army defeated the Persian troops under Rustam
and recaptured Hira and other areas in Iraq. It was a decisive battle which broke down the strength of the Persians.
After this the Muslim army advanced and captured Mada’in and Jalulah one after another and signed a Treaty of
peace with the Persians. Despite the treaty, the Persians continued their conspiracies against Islamic state.
Therefore, Muslims had to fight against them at Nihawand in 21 A.H./ 642 A.D. a battle took place in which 30,000
Muslims defeated 60,000 Persians. The Persian king Yazdgard fled from the battle field. It was the last battle against
the Persians which sealed the fate of Persian Empire and the whole of Persia came under Muslim rule.
Muslims also had to fight against the Byzantines on the Northern borders because of their hostility against
the Islamic state.The Muslim commanders i.eKhalid bin Waleed, Amr bin al Aas and Abu Ubaidah bin al Jarrah
defeated the Romans and captured areas of Byzantine empire , which was the Eastern province of Roman empire.
Muslim army laid siege to Damascus till 635AD and then they had to fight against them in the battle of Fihl which
resulted in the conquest of Jordan. Then Muslims advanced and fought in the battle of Yarmuk in Palestine in 15
A.H/636 A.D. An army of 40,000 Muslims defeated 2,60,000 Byzantines after a battle which lasted for 6 days. As a
 4

result of this battle, Muslims conquered Syria. In October 636 AD Muslims recaptured Damascus under Abu Ubaidah
bin al Jarrah.
Meanwhile, Amr bin Aas laid siege to Jerusalem and later Khalid bin Waleed also joined him. The Christian
Patriarch Sophronious offered to surrender on the condition that the Caliph himself should come to Jerusalem. This
was accepted and Hazrat Umar signed an agreement that guaranteed safety and security of the people of Jerusalem.
Finally, Muslim army advanced under Amr bin Aas and laid a siege and after the battle of Alexandria captured Egypt
in 18 A.H. /639 A.D.

Wars against Persians:

M/J 2016
3 (a) The conquest of Persia was one of ‘Umar’s great achievements. Write an account of any
two battles fought with the Persians during his caliphate. [10]
Answer(Learn and write):
1. Battle of Namarraq:
During the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakr, Muslims under Musanna and Khalid bin Walid conquered the kingdom of
Hira. The Persians became furious and tried to recover it from the Muslims. The Persian King sent Rustam, a famous
general, to fight the Muslims. Khalid bin Walid had already left for Syria and so Musana was left alone on the Persian
front. Hazrat Umar sent an army under Abu Ubaid to reinforce the army of Musana. A battle was fought at Namarraq
in which the Persians were defeated.
2. Battle of Jasr(Bridge):
After the defeat of the Persians in the battle of Namarraq, they again met the Muslims under the command of
Bahman (634 AD). The Euphrates lay between the two armies. Against the advice of the Muslim leaders, their
commander Abu Ubaid Thaqafi, decided to fight across the river.
A bridge of boats was built across the river and the Muslims crossed it. After crossing the river, Abu Ubaid ordered
that the bridge should be broken so that Muslim soldiers would not think of retreating. But then, they found
themselves at a disadvantage. The ground was uneven and the army could not move freely. A thick wall of war
elephants shielded the Persians. The Arab horses, which had never seen the war elephants before were terrified
and this led to confusion and the Muslims cavalry, got disorganized.
In the scuffle that followed, a white elephant knocked down Abu Ubaid and trampled him. One after another, the
Muslim commanders were martyred. This made the Muslim army lose heart and they rushed for the bridge but the
bridge had already been broken .
Musanna, who was now that the commander of the Muslim army ordered the re-building of the bridge. In the
meantime, he held back the enemy with a small force asking others to cross the river. He himself was the last to
cross. The Muslims suffered heavy losses. Out of a total strength of nine thousand, only three thousand could be
saved. This Battle is also known as the Battle of Bridge.
3. Battle of Buwaib:
After the disaster at Jasr, Hazrat Umar sent messengers to all parts of Arabia inviting the Arabs to participate in war
against Persians. In response this call many Muslims and Christians gathered round the standard of Islam. The
Persians sent a strong force 200000 against the Muslims under the command of Mehran, who was regarded as an
expert in the Arabian way of War. The Persian Army marched to Euphrates and camped on the east bank of the
Euphrates River. Mehran sent a messenger to Musanna to inquire if the Muslim would like the Persians to cross
 5

over to their side. The Muslims had a bitter experience of crossing the river in the Battle of Bridge. So they asked
the Persians army to cross river. The following day, the Persians army crossed over and the two armies met at
Buwaib. The Persians were several times more in numbers, but the Muslims fought desperately. A young warrior of
Taghlib tribe killed Mehran. With his death, the tide of the battle was turned and the Persians began to flee in
disorder. Musana, at once, captured the Bridge this prevented the Persians from crossing the river. Finding no other
way to flee thousands of them were drowned while other died in large number on the battlefield. In this battle the
majority of the Persians army was destroyed.
4. Battle of Qadisiya:
Following the humiliating defeat at Buwayb the Persians once again prepared for battle against the Muslims. Hazrat
Umar in response organised a force of about 30000 and choose Saad bin Abi Waqas a veteran from Badr to lead
them. The Muslims army camped at Qadissiya a little town among the palm groves on the very edge of the settled
lands of Iraq. A contingent which had been called by the caliph from the Syrian front also reinforced the Muslim
army and in 636 the battle of Qadissiya was fought between the Muslims and the Persians.
Despite its enormous importance very little is known of the course of this battle. Arab accounts begin with the
recruitment and dispatch of the army from Madina, after whose arrival on the borders of Iraq a delegation of Muslim
elders was sent to Yazdegird the Persian emperor inviting him to accept Islam ,pay jizya or to arbitrate for war. The
arrogant emperor was contemptuous of the Arabs while the Muslim delegation remained patient and courteous
but to no effect. A stand-off lasting 3 months took place with skirmishes against border settlements in which the
Muslims were successful and during which time there were desertions and defections from the Persian side. As a
resulted of which Muslim army got increased to 30000 whereas the Persians lost their strength which came down
60000 from 120000. Finally, Rustam attacked the Muslims by crossing the river. Saad bin Abi waqas employed best
strategies making the best use of his archers to overcome elephant corps and using his force to break the Persians.
The battle lasted for three days, on the third and final day of this battle, the Persians decided to attack the Muslims
early in the morning and to get a decisive victory. But Muslims were ready to fight back and the Persian forces
started to flee from the battlefield. Rustam was caught and killed while trying to swim to safety and the Persians
were routed. Sa’ad chased them to Babal where they sought refuge and then after a 2 month campaign Muslims
captured Mada’inthe Persian capital. The emperor and his family and nobles fled. Two thirds of the Persian army
was killed and the Muslims lost a fifth of their men in this battle.
This was a decisive battle in the history of Islam, it shattered the strength of the Persian Empire and many people
of the conquered areas accepted Islam. Following this victory the whole territory between the Euphrates and the
Tigris came under the Muslims.
5. Battle of Jalula
The Persian King took refuge in Hulwan and asked his forces to advance. Then occupied Jalula near Mada’in. They
did great preparation and converted the town into a fortress by digging trench around it. Muslims laid the siege
which lasted for seven months. Finally, they had no option but to come out and fight. The fighting continued fiercely
but late in afternoon Allah helped Muslims with a severe storm, Persian resistance broke down, and they dispersed
in all directions. Muslims pursued and killed them in large numbers. They occupied Jalula and the residents
surrendered on the usual terms of Jizya.
6. Battle of Nihawand
Between the years 638-639 Arabia was struck with a great famine and plague but the expansion of the Islamic
territories continued. On the other hand the Persian ruler Yazdegird’s people to incite rebellion against the Muslims
and skirmishes ensued. When Hazrat Umar heard that Yazdgard was determined to recover his control of the rich
 6

plains of Mesopotamia (Iraq) and was trying to rally support and muster troops at the city of Nihawand he sent
letters to Kufa and Basra ordering that the armies should assembled.
The Muslim armies subsequently gathered and marched on to Nihawand. One force was ordered to station itself
on the borders between the provinces of Fars and Isfahan to prevent the Persians sending reinforcement from the
south. The Muslim army of 30000 was much smaller than the Persian force of 60000.
The Muslim army on reaching Nihawand found the Persian army drawn up on the near side of a ravine which was
later to prove fatal to many of them. They had also fortified themselves behind trenches. The Muslims tried to storm
them out but without success and the disciplined Persian emerged from their fortified positions only when it suited
them. After a few days, the Muslim leader met in a council of war to decide a better course of action. It was decided
that the cavalry would advance and pretend to attack the trenches and then withdraw to lure the Persian from their
positions. However, their commander Nouman ibn Muqarrin kept the main Muslim army in check until the day was
almost over. they finally attacked the enemy, victory came quickly.
The Persians began to flee and surrender of the towns soon followed the military victory. The victory at Nihawand
came to be known as fath al Futuh the victory of victories.
M/J 2013
5 (a) Give an account of the following two battles during the rule of ‘Umar [10]
• Battle of Qadisiya;
• Battle of Yarmuk.
M/J 2018
3(a) Write a detailed account of two battles under the caliphate of ‘Umar. [10]
Wars against Romans:
1. Siege of Damascus
Hazrat Khalid bin Waleed had laid siege to Damascus a few days before Abu Bakr’s death, During Umar’s Caliphate
he added Damascus, Jordan and Emmessa one after the other to the Muslim Empire. Damascus was known for its
wealth and culture. Syrians were hoping reinforcements from Heraclius but it did not happen, instead the Muslims
swam across the moat and using rope ladders scaled the wars. When Syrian panicked and threw open the gates to
escape, the remaining Muslim force rushed in and occupied the city.
2. Battle of the Fihl
Battle of the Fihl 635 AD resulted in the addition province of Jordan in the Islamic Empire. The site was on the
western side of Lake Tiberias where the water channel separated the Muslims from the Christians, who were waiting
for reinforcements and offered negotiations hoping the Muslims would back down.
Abu Ubaidah sent Muadh ibn Jabal as his emissary. The Christians tried to impress the Muslims with their pomp and
ceremony, but Muadh was not be deflected. He offered the Christians an invitation to Islam or else to become
dhimmis by paying Jizya, or else to settle the matter through war.
These measures being fruitless, the Roman attacked the Muslims in small groups. Khalid saw through this tactic and
gradually retreated drawing the enemy forces further in; he then surrounded them and launched a furious attack.
The Roman suffered heavy casualties and those who survived scattered and fled. Thus Jordan was secured and
Hazrat Umar sent specific instruction on how to deal with the conquered people and their land.
3. Battle of Yarmuk:
Fought in the summer of 636 the battle of Yarmuk was a major conflict between the Byzantines and the Muslims.
When the reports of the fall of Damascus, and defeat at Fihl and Hims were given to Heraclius he was determined
 7

to recover Palestine for Christian rule. He issued orders to mobilize troops from all corners of his empire and it is
believed that the Roman emperor sent an army of 260,000 men against the Muslims who were 40000.
Khalid ibn al-Walid began to group his forces along the River Yarmuk. Hazrat Umar was in contact with the
commanders and he sent them the message of advice and encouragement. Negotiations between the two armies
were held in which the Romans tried to convince the Muslims and even offered Muslims large amounts of money
if they left Syria and returned to Arabia. Khalid responded with reasons and declined the Roman’s offer. He
elaborated on the positive changes that Islam had brought about in the Arabs and invited the Romans to accept
Islam or else to get protection by payment of Jizya. But when he was met with a refusal he returned to prepare his
Army for the inevitable conflict.
Khalid bin Waleed addressed his men urging them to stick together and fight in union .Major battle was fought
towards the end of August 636AD when the Muslims pretending to retreat from their positions lured the Byzantines
into the rough terrain, where they were ambushed. During the battle the Byzantines cavalry became separated
from the infantry enabling the Muslim cavalry to inflict great damage on them. Khalid had divided his cavalry into
small squadrons to make them appear numerous to the enemy. The Byzantines were also unsettled by a dust storm.
Their main army now driven west was trapped in rugged valleys with the cliffs of the Yarmuk gorge behind them.
Khalid captured the old Roman bridge across the valley of Ruqqad and Muslims forces stormed the Byzantines camp
at Yaqusa. The Byzantines were further demoralized by rumors that Christian Arabs had defected to the Muslim
side
The war strategies of the Muslim commanders paid off and the battle lasted 6 days. By the afternoon of the 6th
day only one third of the Byzantine army remained, the rest had either been killed or had fled. The Muslim loss of
life was 9000 men.
The battle of Yarmuk was a great victory for the Muslims. The power of Byzantine was completely crushed and Syria
fell in the hands of the Muslims. Heraclius moved his capital to Constantinople. The city of Jerusalem, which was
besieged by Amr ibn al Aa’s since the Yarmuk conflict and had withstood surrender, with the arrival of Abu
‘Ubaydah realised the futility of their position and agreed to surrender but only to the caliph.
4. Siege and Conquest of Jerusalem, 637
Though the Muslims had been successful in securing all of Syria, the city of Jerusalem, besieged by Amr ibn al Aas since the
Yarmuk conflict, had withstood surrender. It was only when Amr’s army was reinforced by Abu ‘Ubaydah and Khalid’s forces,
that the inhabitants of Jerusalem realized the futility of their position and agreed to a surrender, but on the condition that the
Caliph would himself come to sign the treaty.
Jerusalem was one city whose conquest was more symbolic than of military importance and hence Hazrat Umar agreed to
personally be present at the surrender of Jerusalem in 637. To make this journey he set off which one slave and a camel
between them. When the Patriarch Sophronius, an Arab Christian who had risen to become one of the leading figures of the
Greek Church in Jerusalem, witnessed the simplicity and humility of the Caliph he is reported to have said:’ Verily Islam has
exceeded all the religious.’
The terms of the treaty signed with the leaders of Jerusalem were similar to others put in place throughout Syria. What was
unique about the Muslim conquest of Jerusalem was that the new governors allowed Jews, who were banned from the city
of the Byzantines, to come here to worship for the first time in over 500 years. The Qur’an holds Christian and Jewish religious
in special esteem calling Jews and Christians, “The people of the book (Ahl-ul-Kitab).” While acknowledging the right of
Christians and Jews in Jerusalem, Hazrat Umar RA was keen to send the message that this city also belonged to the
Muslims.Jerusalem was the city to which the holy Prophet pbuh had travelled from Makkah during M’airaj, and where he led
the prophets of the past in prayer, before ascending to heaven. There could be no minimizing the importance of Jerusalem in
the Islamic tradition, and within mind Hazrat umerRA set about the cleaning the Temple Mount, erected the first version of the
al- Aqsa mosque, the third holiest site in Islam
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A deputation from Jerusalem waited on Hazrat Umar and a treaty was drawn up. According to the treaty, security of life and
property were granted to all citizens of Jerusalem. The safety of churches and other religious buildings was provided for. The
citizens were required to pay Jizya. Those who refused to comply were asked to leave the city.
Then the Caliph expressed his desire to be led to some place where he could offer thanksgiving prayer. He was led to a church.
He refused to pray their on the ground that he would set an example for the Muslims of the following generation to forcibly
convert churches into mosques. He was then led to a place where Prophet David used to pray.
5. Conquest of Egypt
Hazrat Amr ibn Aas realized the strategic importance of this region and asked the Caliph for the permission of an
expedition who made him in charge of 4000 men. Amr approached the massive and well defended fort at Fustat. He requested
for reinforcements and Umar sent them with four commanders. Amr handed over the operation to Zubair who captured the
fort after a seven month long siege. This fort later became the garrison town of Fustat.
After Fustat, Amr laid the siege to Alexandria. There were 50000 Christian forces and Muslims were 12000. The siege lasted
for a long time. Umar wrote a strong worded letter, expressing his displeasure on the pace of events. In the meantime
Heraclius, the Byzantine Emperor died. The Muslims then intensified the attacks. After the battle, Alexandria was conquered
and Muslims became the masters of Egypt.

3.(b) How does ‘Umar’s conduct at the surrender of Jerusalem set an example for Muslims? [4]
Hazrat Umar’s conduct at the time of the surrender of Jerusalem sets an example for today’s Muslims. He entered
Jerusalem accompanied by just one servant and a camel between them which they rode in turns which shows the
importance of the kind treatment of our servants and subordinates. He signed a treaty according to which the
inhabitants of Jerusalem were granted complete security of their life and property. It emphasizes on people’s
freedom to practice their own religion and the protection given to their places of worship. The Quran says, “Let
there be no compulsion in religion.” His conduct therefore sets an example of simplicity, humility, a respect for all
faiths and tolerance.
4.(b) ‘Umar’s unbending attitude led to his assassination’. What can Muslims learn from this? [4]
3(b)In your opinion what lesson(s) can be learnt from the martyrdom of ‘Umar? [4]
Hazrat ‘Umar went about conducting the affairs of the caliphate even though there was a threat to his life, he did
not increase the security around him, nor did he succumb to the demands of Abu Lulu who threatened his life for
not relieving him from paying a tax.
Muslims today should learn from Hazrat ‘Umar’s action and have complete faith in Allah and believe that only He
is the giver and taker of life.
leaders sometimes have to take unpopular decisions which could cause them difficulty but they must never opt to
take the easy option rather they should do what is right; they must not shy away from their responsibilities for the
sake of personal safety etc. They must not give in to unjust demands of people and work honestly at whatever they
do.
3.(b) What does the way he died tell us about his character? [4]
Hazrat Umar bin Khattab was killed by a Persian slave Abu Lulu al-Feroz in 23AH/644AD when he was leading the morning
Prayer. The reason was that Hazrat Umar refused to exempt him from the payment of a tax. This shows Hazrat Umar
characteristics of total impartiality and his refusal to give concession even to those who were close to him. He was very firm
about the correct observances of all regulations and never gave preferential treatment to anyone for example when his own
son was found guilty of drinking wine, he punished him with 80 lashes. He was buried next to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) which
shows that he was held in high esteem.