Umar’s dislike of Position and Power

During the battle of Khaibar, there was a particular fortress that was causing problems for the advancing army of Muslims. The Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam) would appoint leaders from among the Companions to open it, but they would all be unsuccessful.

Then, during one evening, the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam), said:

“Tomorrow I will give the banner to a man for whom Allah will open for him (the fortress). He loves Allah and His Messenger and Allah and His Messenger love him.” [Bukhari]

What an amazing and beautiful honour!

The next day all of the Companions presented themselves to the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam) in order to have the honour of this position as mentioned in the statement of the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam) above.

Umar Ibn Al Khataab (radiAllahu Andu) then made an a profound statement in relation to this event. He said:

“I never loved position of authority, ever, except on that day.” [Muslim]

Loving to be in a position of power, authority, fame and leadership is something all humans crave to a lesser or greater degree. However in Islam, it is something that is not encouraged as something to be sought after. When the uncle of the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam) Al Abbas came to him asking him for him to appoint him to a position of authority, the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam) responded by telling him that authority is not given to someone who asks for it, or is eager to have it. This is the tarbiyyah of Islam.

Umar Ibn Al Khataab (radiAllahu Andu) reached to such a level in his adherance to Islam that he did not even want authority. For him it was not simply a case of surpressing a desire for it, he did not even want it in the first place!

The exception for Umar Ibn Al Khataab (radiAllahu Andu) was that day when the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasallam) promised that Allah and His Messenger love that individual, which is something every Companion dearly wanted for themselves.