MCQ Detailed View

The period of the Pious Caliphate (Khulafa-e-Rashideen) lasted for approximately 30 years after the death of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in 11 AH (632 CE). This era includes the rule of the four rightly guided caliphs, who were close companions of the Prophet and implemented governance based on the Qur’an, Sunnah, and principles of justice and consultation (Shura).

The breakdown of their rule is as follows:

1. 
   

   Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA) – 2 years (11–13 AH).

   
   


2. 
   

   Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) – 10 years (13–23 AH).

   
   


3. 
   

   Hazrat Uthman ibn Affan (RA) – 12 years (23–35 AH).

   
   


4. 
   

   Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) – 5 years (35–40 AH).

   
   

The final six months of the 30-year period were under the caliphate of Hazrat Hasan ibn Ali (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), before he abdicated in favor of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan (RA), leading to the establishment of the Umayyad Caliphate.

This era is considered the golden age of Islamic governance, characterized by justice, fairness, strong adherence to Shariah, and consultative leadership, setting an example for future Muslim rulers.

Key Facts:

• 
  

  Duration: 30 years (11–41 AH).

  
  


• 
  

  Caliphs: Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, Ali (RA), and briefly Hasan ibn Ali (RA).

  
  


• 
  

  System: Based on Qur’an, Sunnah, and Shura (consultation).

  
  


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  Significance: Known as the ideal Islamic governance model.

  
  


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  End: Transition to Umayyad Caliphate after 30 years.

  
  


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  Legacy: Set principles of justice, accountability, and leadership in Islam.