معالجة الخليفة عمر بن الخطاب لمشكلة المجاعة في عام الرمادة

Abstract EN

The paper reviews the methods used by guided Caliph Umar Ibn al-Khattab (13-23 A.H.) to face the famine of year 18 A.H.

when drought struck Arabia.

The problem was further complicated by the plague, which struck most of Syria during 17-18 A.H.

Umar acted decisively and wisely, setting exemplary precedents to any responsible Muslim ruler.

He mobilized food supplies from Egypt and Iraq, personally supervised their distribution, refrained personally from eating good food or eating at home.

He delayed collection of zakat, and suspended the statutory punishment of theft (hadd) because of the like lihood that the thief is in dire need.

He joined the people in prayer to Allah to alleviate the drought.

After the famine, Umar ordered his Governor in Egypt.

Amr Ibn AI-Aass to dig a canal connecting the Nile to the Red Sea to ensure regular supplies of food from Egypt to Arabia.