Umar ibn Al-Khattab and Diwans in Islamic History

The Works of Umar ibn Al-Khattab and the Diwans

Umar ibn Al-Khattab, also known as Umar ibn Al-Khattab Al-Faruq or Umar II, was the second caliph of Islam, succeeding Abu Bakr after his death in 634 CE. He is considered one of the most significant figures in Islamic history due to his military prowess, political acumen, and commitment to justice and equality. During his reign, Umar established several institutions and policies that had a lasting impact on the Islamic world. One such institution was the Diwan, a system of government bureaucracy responsible for collecting taxes, distributing resources, and providing social services.

Diwans and Their Significance

The term "diwan" has an uncertain derivation and has been used throughout Islamic history to cover a range of institutions and practices. In its most general sense, diwan can be defined as a collection of a homogeneous body of written materials or an administrative office. In the literary sphere, it was used to denote a collection of poetry or, occasionally, prose. In the bureaucratic world, it refers to an archival register or a collection of accounts.

Under the Caliphate of Umar ibn Al-Khattab, diwan came to mean a register, then in a broader sense, a registration office for individuals or tribes who came to swell Muslim troops. It subsequently expanded to cover all of the ministries that deal with the major administrative functions of the State, including the Chancellery (diwan al rasa'il), the Army (diwan al jaysh), the Treasury and the Customs Service.

Diwans played a crucial role in the administration of the Islamic state, ensuring that government officials were held to high standards of conduct and promoting stability and prosperity. The establishment of the Diwan, as an essential part of the Islamic state, was one of the lasting legacies of Umar's reign.

In summary, the diwans established by Umar ibn Al-Khattab were a cornerstone of the Islamic administrative system. They provided a centralized bureaucracy that ensured the smooth functioning of the state, collected taxes, distributed resources, and provided social services.

Explore the significant role of Umar ibn Al-Khattab and the establishment of Diwans in Islamic history. Learn about his contributions to the administration of the Islamic state and the lasting impact of the Diwans in promoting stability and prosperity.