"العدالة في عهد عمر بن عبد العزيز وأثرها في تحقيق الأمن القومي للدولة الإسلامية (دراسة تحليلية تاريخية)"

Student: Dalhat Tanimu
Supervisor: Prof Abdullahi Muhammad
HOD: Prof Abdullahi Muhammad
Department of Islamic Studies
Art and Humanities
Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Kaduna State

Abstract

This research examines justice and its impact on achieving national security during the reign of the righteous Caliph ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz, who is considered one of the most prominent historical models embodying principles of good governance in Islam. The study begins by explaining the concept of justice from an Islamic perspective and its strong connection to the preservation of the five necessities and the stability of society. It then explores the concept of national security, highlighting that it is a broad term encompassing religious, social, economic, and political security—far beyond merely protecting the state from external threats. The research focuses on demonstrating how ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz made justice the foundation of his administration and governance. His reforms began with restoring rights, holding governors accountable, ensuring equality among people, establishing social solidarity, reviving the Sunnah, and eliminating sources of discord and discrimination. The findings show that these just policies directly contributed to political, social, and economic stability, as security spread throughout the regions, poverty rates declined, causes of unrest diminished, and citizens’ loyalty to the state increased. Consequently, his era became one of the least turbulent and most harmonious periods of the Umayyad dynasty The study relied on the testimonies of classical and contemporary historians who affirmed that his caliphate was a unique model combining political asceticism, administrative reform, wisdom, justice, and consultation, to the extent that many regarded him as “the fifth righteous caliph.” The research concludes that justice is not merely an ethical value but a strategic pillar for ensuring national security across all eras, and that the experience of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz provides an inspiring model for addressing modern challenges related to injustice, corruption, and the erosion of trust between rulers and citizens. Accordingly, the study affirms that true national security begins with justice, and that a state built upon justice is better equipped to confront threats, achieve development, and build a cohesive society that enjoys stability and peace. Findings The study demonstrates that the implementation of comprehensive justice during the reign of Caliph ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz was a decisive factor in achieving national security in its various dimensions, as it contributed to political stability, strengthened social peace, improved economic conditions, and reduced manifestations of injustice and corruption. The findings reveal that public trust in leadership and loyalty to the state increase whenever authority adheres to the principles of justice, equality, and accountability of officials, making national security a natural outcome of good governance rather than reliance on force alone. Recommendations The study recommends drawing inspiration from the experience of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz in establishing justice, restoring rights, and promoting transparency and accountability, and adopting these principles as a foundation for formulating contemporary public policies related to national security. It also recommends integrating the concept of Islamic justice into modern national security studies and strategies, highlighting its role in preventing crises and unrest, building trust between the ruler and the ruled, and achieving sustainable stability and development.

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