Uthman Ibn Affan (ra), the third Caliph of Islam ruled for twelve years, the longest among the rightly guided Caliphs. During his rule people became economically more prosperous and he further undertook such activities and projects which also improved their overall quality of life. He was a peace loving, liberal and kind hearted ruler. Uthman Ibn Affan (ra), had all the qualities of the good Muslim but his generosity and modesty stood out. He was the richest person among the Quraish but he spent most of his wealth in the well being of his people and in the cause of Islam. In particular he helped the orphans and the widows. In spite of being rich and powerful he was extremely humble and lived a simple life. Uthman Ibn Affan (ra), was very religious and a man of principles and whatever might be the circumstances he never compromised with his beliefs and principles. Thrice he received the glad tidings of Paradise from the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Uthman bin Affan was one of the early men who accepted Islam in Makkah. From the first moment he became a Muslim, he put all his wealth under the service of Islam. He spent most of his resources to satisfy the needs of poor Muslims. Recognizing his generosity and devotion to Islam, the Prophet told him that his place would be in Paradise on the Hereafter. He married Ruqayah the Prophet's daughter. After she died, he married her sister Um Kulthum, for that, the people at that time called him Dhun Nurain, "The Man with the Two Lights."--Page 4 of cover

‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan (d. 656) was an early convert to Islam and the third successor to the Prophet Muhammad. As caliph he established the first Islamic navy, consolidated the text of the Qur’an, and expanded the Arab empire. His opponents, however, accused him of being corrupt and questioned his legitimacy. After twelve years ‘Uthman’s troubled caliphate ended in revolt. His death at the hands of rebels led to civil war and contributed to the eventual split between Sunni and Shi’i Islam. In this volume, Heather Keaney examines the life and legacy of the controversial caliph.

Short biography of Uthmān ibn ʻAffan, Caliph, d. 656.