Authored by: Zia Bari
Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (may Allah have mercy on him), revered among the just and virtuous caliphs of the Umayyad Caliphate, dedicated himself wholly to the establishment of justice, the adherence to the fundamental principles of Islam, and the well-being of his people.
His dedication to fostering unity within the Muslim community was profound, to the extent that he even embraced a reconciliatory attitude towards the Khawarij, a faction known for their dissent.
Al-Shurāt was a faction within the Khawarij that incited rebellions in specific regions during the reign of Umar ibn Abdul Aziz. This faction was based in areas such as Sijistan, Herat, and parts of Khorasan, where they labeled the wider Muslim community as unbelievers.
They harbored strong disapproval towards Uthman, may Allah be pleased with him, yet held deep admiration and fervent support for Abu Bakr Siddiq and Umar Farooq, may Allah be pleased with them both.
The Al-Shurāt Khawarij considered marriages with close relatives (those prohibited by Islamic law and exempt from observing hijab) permissible. They would interpret Quranic verses to justify their beliefs, disregarding the Sunnah, and were known for their bold and harsh rhetoric.
During one encounter, Ghaylan, the leader of this faction, was brought before Umar ibn Abdul Aziz, leading to a theological debate on fundamental aspects of Islamic beliefs and jurisprudence.
Upon refutation of all his arguments by Umar ibn Abdul Aziz, Ghaylan deceptively expressed, “O Commander of the Faithful! I came to you in error, but you have shown me the right path. I was blind, and you enlightened me. I was ignorant, and you imparted knowledge to me. By Allah, I shall never again discuss the topic of fate.”
Recognizing Ghaylan’s deceitful nature, Umar ibn Abdul Aziz sternly cautioned him, stating, “If I hear you broach the topic of fate again, I swear by Allah I will take immediate punitive action against you.”
Subsequently, Ghaylan remained silent until the demise of Umar ibn Abdul Aziz. However, upon learning of Umar’s passing, he resumed discourse on the subject of fate.
