Destiny Disrupted: A History of the World Through Islamic Eyes

The Third Khalifa (22-34 AH, 642-656 CE)

Othman, Mohammed’s fifth cousin once removed, became the third khalifa of Islam at age 68. He was known as Othman Ghani—the word ghani meaning “wealthy” or “bountiful” in Arabic—for his immense wealth and business acumen. However, despite Othman’s prosperity in Mecca and Medina, a sense of unworthiness and a fear of divine judgment burdened him. He was also deeply religious and known for his modesty. Othman’s conversion to Islam, spurred by a spiritual epiphany, brought him into conflict with his wealthy and staunchly anti-Muslim Umayyad family. Despite familial opposition, Othman married two of Mohammed’s daughters and used his wealth to support the Muslim community, notably financing the first Muslim emigration to Abyssinia.

Significant administrative reforms marked his tenure as khalifa, including the standardization of the Qur’an. This project, aimed at unifying the Islamic community, led to the creation of a definitive edition of the Qur’an and the destruction of all other versions—a decision that, while unifying, also sowed discontent among some Muslims.

Othman’s reign also saw substantial economic changes. He increased tax revenues and expanded Islamic territory, but his preference for appointing family members and Umayyad clan members to influential positions led to accusations of nepotism and favoritism.