Hazrat Umar (RA) converted to Islam in the 6th year of Dawah in the month of Dhul Hijjah.
The First Time Islam Entered His Heart
- One evening, Umar (RA) went to the Kaaba to spend the night.
- Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was praying in front of the kaaba, reciting the Qur’an, specifically Surah al-Haqqa.
- Umar, hearing it for the first time, was captivated by the beauty of its words.
- To dismiss its effect, Umar (RA) tried to find fault with it and thought, “He’s a poet.”
- The recitation continued, countering his thought: “And not a poet’s speech. How little is what you believe!” [Quran 69:41]
- Surprised, Umar then thought, “He’s a soothsayer.”
- Again, the recitation addressed his thought: “Nor is it a soothsayer’s speech. How little it is that you reflect and be mindful!” [Quran 69:42].
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) recited the entire chapter, and Umar (RA) listened with great astonishment and curiosity. He reflected deeply on what he heard. Umar (RA) later recounted that Surah Al-Haqqah profoundly affected him, breaking him down spiritually, mentally, and emotionally, leaving him utterly bewildered. Although he initially tried to forget this experience and did not accept Islam at that time, he eventually had another encounter with the Quran, which led to his acceptance of Islam.
The Conversion
| Hazrat Umar (RA) sets off with the intention of killing the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) | Meets one of his acquaintances on the way and shares his plan. | Comes to know of Hazrat Fatima (RA) and Hazrat Zayd (RA) who accepted Islam. | Enraged, he rushes to Hazrat Fatima (RA)’s house and hears her reciting the Quran. | Acting out of anger whilst attacking his brother-in-law,he ends up hurting her sister. But then calms down and asks to read the Quran himself. | Hazrat Fatima (RA) asks him to perform ghusl first. After ghusl, he begins reading the starting verses of Surah Taha. | As he reads the Quran and reaches this realisation that Islam truly is The Truth, he goes to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and accepts islam. |
Ibn Umar reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “O Allah, strengthen Islam with one of two men whom you love more: Abu Jahl or Umar ibn al-Khattab.” Ibn Umar said, “The most beloved of the two was Umar.” [Sunan al-Tirmidhī – 3681]
Three Powerful Lessons from The Conversion Story of Hazrat Umar (RA)
Power of the Quran: It showcases how the words of the Quran have a profound impact, resonating deeply within us on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Patience and Guidance: The Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) patience and strategic supplication for Umar (RA)’s guidance illustrate the power of dua and having tawakkul in Allah (SWT).
Importance of Knowledge: Umar (RA)’s journey emphasises the significance of seeking knowledge and truth, even if it challenges existing beliefs.
Here’s Your Challenge
- Spent 20 mins today reading or listening to the account of Hazrat Umar (RA).
- What do you learn from his story that resonates with you the most?
- You could also reflect on a moment in your life when you experienced something that you could relate to with his story. It could be a change in beliefs, attitudes, or behaviours.
- Share your reflection in the comments below.
- Tag your friends to share theirs as well.
This year, let’s come together to make this Dhul Hijjah more special, one effort a day. #AZilhajjToRemember
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