LAHORE – With utmost reverence and devotion, the martyrdom anniversary of second caliph of Islam Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab [May Allah Be Pleased with Him] is being observed today.
The various gatherings, seminars, and ceremonies are being held across the country by different sects and religious groups to illuminate the virtues, character, unparalleled achievements, and golden deeds of Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab [may Allah Be Pleased with Him], presenting him with tokens of admiration and respect.
The second caliph, Hazrat Umar Farooq (may Allah be pleased with him), was born in Makkah Mukarramah. His name was Umar ibn Khattab, titled Farooq and Kuniat was Abu Hafsah.
At the age of 35, in the sixth year of Prophethood, Hazrat Umar accepted Islam. After he embraced Islam, the Muslims started offering prayers at Baitullah [Kaaba] for the first time.
After Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (may Allah be pleased with him), he became the second caliph of Islam. During his approximately 11-year reign, Hazrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) expanded the Islamic empire to 22 million square miles. The Muslims achieved victory in the Battles of Qadisiyyah and Yarmouk against the superpowers, the Roman and Sassanid empires, respectively. It was during his rule that Bait-ul-Muqaddas (Jerusalem) was conquered for the first time.
On the 27th of Zil-Hajj, 23 AH, during the Fajr prayer, A Majooris namely Abu Lulu attacked Hazrat Umar (may Allah Be Pleased with Him) with a dagger, and left him severely injured.
On the 1st Muharram, 24 AH, Hazrat Umar Farooq (may Allah Be Pleased with Him) embraced martyrdom. He rests in eternal peace beside Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) in Madina Munawarra.
On the other hand, the KPK government announced a public holiday to observe the martyrdom anniversary of Hazrat Umar-e- Farooq (may Allah Be Pleased with Him).
