Acknowledgment of Truth

argued against Umar’s view. The disagreement became so intense that Umar eventually said, “O God, relieve me of Bilal! (Allahumma akfini Bilalan).” Later, a consultative council was formed to help resolve the matter. It included notable figures such as Uthman, Ali, and Talhah. Even then, no consensus could be reached. After several days of discussion, Umar remembered a verse from the Quran: “It is for the poor refugees who were driven from their homes and possessions, desiring the favour and the pleasure of God and supporting God and His Messenger. Such people are the truthful. Those who were already settled in the city [Madinah] and firmly rooted in faith, love those who migrated to them for refuge, and harbour no desire in their hearts for what has been given to the [latter]. They give them preference over themselves, even if they too are needy: those who are saved from their own souls’ greed are truly successful. Those who came [into the faith] after them say, ‘Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in the faith and leave no malice in our hearts towards those who believe. Lord, You are indeed compassionate and merciful.’”(59: 8-10) Umar recited this verse to the people and explained: “This verse, in discussing war gains and public wealth, includes the phrase ‘and those who come after them’. This clearly proves