Who was the third caliph of Islamic history? Hazrat Usman ibn Affan (RA): The Gentle Caliph of Islam





Hazrat Usman ibn Affan (RA) was the third Caliph of Islam and one of the closest and most respected companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Known for his generosity, humility, and piety, Hazrat Usman played a critical role in the expansion of the Islamic empire and the preservation of the Holy Qur’an. His rule was marked by prosperity, but also by trials, which ultimately led to his martyrdom.

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Early Life and Acceptance of Islam

Hazrat Usman (RA) was born in Makkah into the wealthy and influential Umayyad clan of the Quraish tribe. He was well-educated, polite, and a successful businessman known for his honesty and trustworthiness. Even before Islam, he was admired for his noble character.

When he heard about Islam through Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), he was among the earliest converts to the faith. Despite facing pressure from his tribe, Hazrat Usman remained firm in his belief. His devotion was further solidified when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave him his daughter Ruqayyah (RA) in marriage. After her passing, he married the Prophet’s second daughter, Umm Kulthum (RA), and for this unique honor, he was given the title “Dhul-Nurayn” — the Possessor of Two Lights.

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A Companion of Great Generosity

Hazrat Usman (RA) was exceptionally generous in his support of Islam. During the Battle of Tabuk, he donated hundreds of camels, horses, and large sums of gold and silver to fund the Muslim army. The Prophet (PBUH) was so pleased with his generosity that he said, “Nothing will harm Usman after what he has done today.”

He also purchased the well of Rumah in Madinah, which was owned by a Jew who charged high prices for water. Usman bought it and made it free for all Muslims, a deed that earned him great reward in this life and the hereafter.

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Becoming the Third Caliph

After the martyrdom of Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), a council of six companions appointed by Umar (RA) chose Hazrat Usman (RA) as the third Caliph. He ruled for 12 years (644–656 CE), the longest among the four rightly guided caliphs (Khulafa-e-Rashideen). The first six years of his reign were marked by peace, prosperity, and great expansion.

Under his leadership, the Islamic empire spread far and wide — reaching parts of Persia, North Africa, Cyprus, and Central Asia. Trade flourished, cities grew, and the administration became more organized. Usman (RA) focused on building infrastructure, improving roads, constructing mosques, and appointing qualified governors.

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The Compilation of the Qur’an

One of Hazrat Usman’s greatest contributions to the Muslim Ummah was the standardization of the Holy Qur’an. As Islam spread to non-Arab lands, differences in dialect and pronunciation began to appear. To prevent confusion and ensure the unity of the Qur’anic text, Usman (RA) formed a committee led by Zaid ibn Thabit (RA) to prepare a single, standard copy of the Qur’an based on the Quraishi dialect.

This copy was then distributed to major Islamic cities, and all other versions were burned to preserve the correct recitation. Because of this action, Hazrat Usman earned the title “Jami’ al-Qur’an” — the Compiler of the Qur’an. This act protected the integrity of the Qur’an for all future generations.

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Challenges and Opposition

During the second half of his rule, Hazrat Usman (RA) faced growing opposition. Some people began to criticize the governors he had appointed, claiming they showed favoritism or misused power. Although Usman took steps to correct any errors, his gentle and trusting nature led him to avoid harsh punishments. Unfortunately, some of his enemies exploited this kindness.

Rebels from different regions gathered and demanded that Usman (RA) step down. Even as pressure increased, Hazrat Usman remained calm and refused to use violence against fellow Muslims. He believed strongly in avoiding bloodshed within the Ummah.

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Martyrdom and Legacy

At the age of 82, while fasting and reading the Qur’an in his home, Hazrat Usman (RA) was surrounded and attacked by rebels. Despite the danger, he forbade his supporters from fighting to defend him, saying, “I do not want to shed a single drop of Muslim blood for my sake.” The rebels broke into his home and martyred him while he was reading the Qur’an. His blood fell on the very pages he was reciting — a powerful and tragic symbol of his dedication.

Hazrat Usman’s death shocked the Muslim world and marked the beginning of internal divisions. Yet his legacy lives on through his immense contributions — especially the compilation of the Qur’an and his unmatched generosity.

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Conclusion

Hazrat Usman ibn Affan (RA) was a man of deep faith, kindness, and unwavering commitment to Islam. As the third Caliph, he brought prosperity, preserved the Qur’an, and served the Ummah with sincerity and sacrifice. His life and martyrdom remain a powerful reminder of leadership through mercy, and his actions continue to benefit Muslims around the world to this day.

May Allah be pleased with him and grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen