Who Was ʿUthmān ibn ʿAffān (R.A.)?
ʿUthmān (R.A.) was the third Rightly Guided Caliph, ruling for about twelve years. He was known as Dhun-Nūrayn (Possessor of Two Lights) for marrying two daughters of the Prophet ﷺ.
What Went Wrong?
In later years, governor appointments became controversial and accusations of nepotism grew, especially from Egypt and Iraq.
The Fitnah Begins
The text attributes rumor-spreading and incitement to ʿAbdullāh ibn Saba, who fueled unrest by exploiting political emotions and false narratives.
The Siege of His Home
- His house was besieged for over 40 days.
- Many Sahaba tried to protect him, but ʿUthmān refused to shed Muslim blood.
- He remained in worship, fasting, and reciting Qur’an.
The Martyrdom
On 18 Dhul Hijjah 35 AH, rebels broke in and killed him while he recited Qur’an. His blood fell upon the verse:
“So Allah will be sufficient for you against them, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.” (2:137)
Aftermath: The Ummah Shattered
- First assassination of a Caliph
- Door opened to civil war and long-term division
- Seeds planted for instability later exploited by tyrants
Spiritual Reflection
ʿUthmān (R.A.) died as a martyr of the Qur’an. His death reminds us: division within is often more dangerous than enemies from outside.
