Historical Figure
Umar II (Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz)
Umayyad
Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz ibn Marwan, often referred to as Umar II was the eighth Umayyad caliph, ruling from 717 until his death in 720. His reign was marked by significant central government reforms aimed at fostering efficiency and social equality. These efforts included the first official collection of hadiths and a robust promotion of the Sunnah. Economically, he sought to stabilize the state by implementing a tax reform that granted equality to non-Arab Muslims by exempting them from the jizya, while protecting public lands from dynastic privatization.
Connection to Damascus
Raised and educated in Damascus; governed the caliphate from there; known for his reforms and justice.
Known for
Fifth rightly-guided caliph; renowned for justice piety and reforms.
Lifespan
682 – 720
Biography
Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz ibn Marwan, often referred to as Umar II was the eighth Umayyad caliph, ruling from 717 until his death in 720. His reign was marked by significant central government reforms aimed at fostering efficiency and social equality. These efforts included the first official collection of hadiths and a robust promotion of the Sunnah. Economically, he sought to stabilize the state by implementing a tax reform that granted equality to non-Arab Muslims by exempting them from the jizya, while protecting public lands from dynastic privatization.