Caliphate of Hz.Umar Flashcards
How was hz.Umar R.A elected as Caliph?
On his deathbed, Abu Bakr R.A inquired with the Majlis-e-Shura and elected Umar R.A as caliph. This decision was objected by none except Hz.Talha R.A who said he was too harsh to be a Caliph. Abu Bakr R.A said that the burden of Caliphate will make him more responsible and mild.
What was the role of the Majlis-e-Shura and Majlis-e-Aam?
Majlis-e-Shura consisted of senior companions for major decisions;
Majlis-e-Aam gathered public opinion.
How was the empire administratively divided?
Into about 12 provinces and 100 districts for better governance.
Who were the main officials appointed in every province?
A Wali (governor), an Amil (tax collector), and a Qadi (judge).
What document did governors receive upon appointment?
A written document outlining their responsibilities and limits.
What financial transparency was required from governors?
They had to declare their assets at the time of appointment and retirement.
What oath did appointed officers have to take? 5 marks
Not to ride Turkic horses, wear fine clothes, eat sifted flour, keep a porter, and to keep doors open to the public.
What were the responsibilities of governors? 7 marks
Managing religious affairs, public security, salary distribution, staff appointments, care of Dhimmis, province development, and social welfare.
When did Caliph Umar establish the army as a state department?
In 637 AD.
What administrative step did Caliph Umar take for the army?
He maintained a register and fixed salaries for soldiers.
What were the two categories of soldiers under Caliph Umar?
Regular army soldiers and those who stayed at home but were called when needed.
Who accompanied troops stationed in distant areas?
A treasury officer, an accountant, a judge, physicians, and surgeons.
Why were cantonments built outside towns?
To keep the troops ready and available during emergencies.
How were the army forces organised?
Into infantries and cavalries.
What provision was made for cavalry horses near cantonments?
Stables were built housing around 4000 horses.
What skills were mandatory for soldiers?
Horse riding, swimming, archery, and running barefoot.
What financial institution did Caliph Umar establish in every province?
Bait-ul-Maal
Who was appointed in charge of each provincial Bait-ul-Maal?
An honest and trustworthy person.
Where was the headquarters of Bait-ul-Maal?
In Madinah.
What was done with surplus provincial funds?
They were sent to the central treasury in Madinah.
What system did Caliph Umar introduce for record-keeping?
The Diwan (state records).
What were some sources of income in Caliph Umar’s administration?
Zakat, Ushr, Khiraj, Ghanimah, Jizya, Rikaz, Khums.
What policy did Caliph Umar implement regarding foreign traders?
He allowed non-Muslims to trade in the Islamic Empire with a 10% duty.
What rule did Caliph Umar set for troops regarding newly conquered lands?
They were not allowed to own land; it remained state property and was taxed through Khiraj.
