Hazrath Umar RA Part 33

Main Topic

An analysis of the principles governing salaries and stipends for the Khalifa and those serving the Deen, centered on the example and governance of Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (Radhiyallahu 'Anhu).

Key Lessons

• Compensation for Deen Service: Serving Deen is done for the reward of Allah Ta'ala. However, if a person's time is entirely restricted to serving the Ummah, receiving compensation for their time is permissible so that Deen work does not suffer.
• The Practice of Umar (RA): In the early part of his Khilafat, Umar (RA) lived off his own business. As the Khilafat expanded and took up all his time, he faced severe poverty and consulted the Sahaba (RA) regarding a minimal stipend.
• Consultation with the Sahaba (RA): Hazrat Ali (RA) advised that the Khalifa take only enough for two simple meals a day for himself and his family. The Sahaba agreed on providing basic seasonal clothing and a riding animal for official and religious travel.
• Analogy of the Orphan's Guardian: Umar (RA) stated that his relationship to the public treasury (Baitul Maal) was like that of a guardian to an orphan's wealth—if self-sufficient, one should refrain; if in need, one may take only what is reasonable.
• Trusteeship of Public Funds: Public and religious funds (including masjid and madrasa resources) must be spent with extreme care and sincerity, reserved only for necessary needs rather than lavish decorations or personal enrichment.
• Assisting Those in Khidmat: Supporting those who serve Deen yields an equal reward, as intention (Ikhlas) renders even hidden backend contributions invaluable.

Quranic/Hadith References

• Reference to the principle of guardians handling an orphan's property reasonably (referencing Surah An-Nisa, 4:6).
• Reference to Hadith regarding equipping a warrior (Mujahid) in Jihad, where the supporter earns the same reward as the one going forth.

Practical Advice

• If Allah Ta'ala has blessed an individual with self-sufficiency through other halal means, they should strive to render service to Deen without taking a salary.
• Trustees, committee members, and community leaders must treat communal and religious funds with strict financial integrity, avoiding extravagance and unnecessary embellishments.
• Intention (Ikhlas) is the core of all deeds; assist those serving Islam in any capacity—whether financially, logistically, or through personal effort.