Book Description
The Biography of ‘Uthmân Ibn Affân Dhun-Noorayn is a detailed account of the life of Uthman, the third caliph of Islam, written by Dr. Ali Muhammad As-Sallabi and translated by Nasir Khattab. The book provides an in-depth look at Uthman’s life, from his early years in Makkah to his time in Madinah and his appointment as caliph, as well as his approach to ruling and the main features of his character.

The book is divided into seven chapters, starting with ‘Uthmân’s name, lineage, kunyah, nicknames, physical attributes, and family, and his status during the Jahiliyyah. It covers his coming to Islam, his marriage to Ruqayyah, the daughter of the Messenger of Allah, his persecution, and migration to Abyssinia. The book also delves into Uthman’s relationship with the Holy Qur’an, his standing in Madinah, and his contributions to the establishment of the state.

Chapter two highlights Uthman’s appointment as caliph and his method of ruling, including his letters to his agents, governors, commanders, and the people at large. The chapter also discusses the highest authority in the state, the ummah’s right to call the caliph to account, shoora, justice, equality, and other aspects of Uthman’s character. It shows how his strong leadership and just governance shaped the early Islamic state.

Chapter three focuses on financial and judiciary institutions at the time of ‘Uthmân, including public income from the jizyah, kharaj, and ‘ushoor, as well as the policy of ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affân in allocating land. It also discusses types of public expenditure and the continuation of the stipend system at the time of ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan.

Chapter four covers the conquests at the time of ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affän, including his conquests in the East, the campaign of Sa’eed ibn al-‘Aas to Tabaristan, and the conquests of ‘Abd-Alláh ibn ‘Aamir and al-Bab and Balanjar in Syria. The chapter also discusses the campaign to Cyprus and the conquests in Egypt, as well as the writing down of the Holy Qur’an and the compilation of ‘Uthman.

Chapter five is dedicated to governors at the time of ‘Uthman, detailing his policies and their rights and duties. It highlights some of the governors during his reign, including Mu’awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan ibn Harb al-Umawi, ‘Abd Allah ibn ‘Aamir ibn Kurayz, and al-Waleed ibn ‘Uqbah. The chapter shows how ‘Uthman kept watch on his governors and checked on them frequently.

Chapter six explains the reasons for the fitnah that led to the murder of ‘Uthman, including social change at the time, the cessation of conquest, the mistaken concept of piety, and the ambitions of ambitious people. It also shows how the conspiracy of the haters and the use of means to stir up the people influenced the fitnah.

Chapter seven covers the murder of ‘Uthman and the turmoil that led up to it, highlighting ‘Uthman’s policy in dealing with the turmoil and the rebels’ occupation of Madinah. The chapter also discusses the attitude of the Sahibah towards the murder of ‘Uthman and its effect in creating further turmoil and division.

Overall, The Biography of ‘Uthmân Ibn Affân Dhun-Noorayn is a informative and engaging book that provides insight into the life of one of the most important figures in Islamic history. The book is well-researched and provides a thorough examination of ‘Uthman’s life and contributions to the establishment of the early Islamic state. It is an excellent resource for scholars and students of Islamic history, and for anyone interested in learning more about the life of ‘Uthman.