Uthman ibn Affan was one of the closest companions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the third Caliph of Islam. Known for his piety, wisdom, and generosity, he played a pivotal role in preserving the Quran, expanding the Islamic community, and strengthening Islamic governance.
Uthman ibn Affan life story is one of sacrifice, devotion, and unwavering faith, offering invaluable lessons for Muslims today.
Uthman ibn Affan Family
Uthman ibn Affan (RA) was born into the Banu Umayyah clan of the Quraysh, one of the most influential families in Mecca. His father, Affan ibn Abi al-As, was a successful merchant, and his mother, Arwa bint Kurayz, was the daughter of Bayda bint Abdul Muttalib, making him the Prophet’s (ﷺ) second cousin.
His family was known for wealth and leadership, but Uthman (RA) was distinguished by his humility, kindness, and generosity.
His Marriages
Uthman (RA) is the only man in history to marry two daughters of a Prophet:
•Ruqayyah bint Muhammad (RA): Uthman (RA) migrated with her to Abyssinia to escape persecution. Sadly, she passed away in Medina.
•Umm Kulthum bint Muhammad (RA): The Prophet (ﷺ) later married his second daughter to Uthman (RA).
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“If I had another daughter, I would have given her in marriage to Uthman.”
(Ibn Majah, 111)
His Physical Appearance and Character
Uthman (RA) was described as:
- Tall and handsome with a fair complexion.
- A man with a thick beard and soft-spoken demeanor.
- Known for his shyness, humility, and extreme generosity.
The Prophet ﷺ said about him:
أَلَا أَسْتَحِي مِنْ رَجُلٍ تَسْتَحِي مِنْهُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ
“Should I not be shy of a man whom even the angels are shy of?”
(Sahih Muslim, 2401)
His Title Dhun-Nurayn
Uthman (RA) was given his title Dhun-Nurayn (The Possessor of Two Lights) because he was married to two daughters of the Prophet ﷺ.
- He first married Ruqayyah (RA) and migrated with her to Abyssinia.
- After her passing, the Prophet ﷺ married his second daughter, Umm Kulthum (RA), to Uthman (RA).
The Prophet ﷺ said:
إِنَّ مِنْ أَمَنِّ النَّاسِ عَلَيَّ فِي صُحْبَتِهِ وَمَالِهِ عُثْمَانُ
“The person who has helped me the most with his companionship and wealth is Uthman.”
(Tirmidhi, 3701)
His Conversion to Islam
Uthman ibn Affan (RA) embraced Islam through Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA), who introduced him to the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ.
- He accepted Tawheed (monotheism) and pledged allegiance to the Prophet.
- His conversion led to severe persecution from his own family.
- His faith remained unshaken, despite the hardships.
The Prophet ﷺ said about Uthman (RA):
مَنْ يُؤْذِي عُثْمَانَ فَقَدْ آذَانِي
“Whoever harms Uthman has harmed me.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah, 111)
His Persecution and Migration to Abyssinia
As the Quraysh increased their oppression, the Prophet ﷺ allowed a group of Muslims to migrate to Abyssinia.
- Uthman (RA) and Ruqayyah (RA) were among the first migrants.
- The Christian King Negus provided them with protection.
- He continued to support Islam from exile, showing his devotion.
The Prophet ﷺ praised him, saying:
إِنَّ عُثْمَانَ هُوَ أَوَّلُ مَنْ هَاجَرَ إِلَى اللَّهِ مَعَ أَهْلِهِ
“Uthman is the first person to migrate for the sake of Allah with his family.”
(Ibn Asakir, 207)
His persecution and migration to Abyssinia not only provided immediate relief from the violent oppression in Mecca but also marked a significant moment in Islamic history, highlighting the resilience and commitment of early Muslims in the face of adversity.
Migration to Madinah and Contributions to Islam
His migration to Madinah made immense contributions:
•Purchased the Well of Rumah, providing free water for all Muslims.
•Expanded Masjid an-Nabawi, donating large sums for its construction.
•Funded military campaigns, including the Battle of Tabuk.
His generosity and service made him one of the most respected members of the Muslim community.
The Third Caliph and Standardization of the Quran
After the passing of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), Uthman (RA) was elected as the third Caliph of Islam in 644 CE.
His Greatest Achievement – Standardization of the Quran
- As Islam spread, different recitations of the Quran emerged.
- Uthman (RA) compiled a single, unified version and distributed it worldwide.
- This preserved the Quran’s authenticity forever.
Allah ﷻ says:
إِنَّا نَحْنُ نَزَّلْنَا الذِّكْرَ وَإِنَّا لَهُ لَحَافِظُونَ
“Indeed, it is We who sent down the Quran, and indeed, We will be its guardian.”
(Surah Al-Hijr, 15:9)
His Passing and Legacy
In 656 CE, Uthman (RA) was surrounded in his home by rebels. While reciting the Quran, he was attacked while fasting, choosing not to fight back to avoid Muslim bloodshed.
His final moments were spent in worship, as his blood fell on Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:137.
May Allah be pleased with Uthman ibn Affan (RA) and grant us the ability to follow his example.
Conclusion
Uthman ibn Affan life story is a profound narrative that encapsulates the essence of early Islamic history, marked by both remarkable achievements and significant challenges.
His contributions to Islam are vast:
He standardized and compiled the Quran, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
He expanded Islam into new regions, bringing peace and justice.
He donated immense wealth for the benefit of the Muslim Ummah.
He endured great trials and remained steadfast in his faith.
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May Allah guide us all. Ameen!
