Development of Islamic Legal Politics during the Era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs and Its Controversies

Abstract

The era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs marks one of the most critical periods in Islamic history. Beginning with the death of Prophet Muhammad, this era showcases the strenuous efforts of the Caliphs in establishing a robust foundation for Islamic governance and facing various external and internal challenges. This study focuses on how Abu Bakr handled the Riddah rebellions, Umar ibn al-Khattab’s policies in establishing Baitul Mal and a legal system, Uthman ibn Affan's efforts in compiling the Quran into a single codex, and Ali ibn Abi Talib's steps in quelling conflicts and divisions within the Muslim community.

This research employs a normative approach, where analysis is conducted based on literature, historical documents, and relevant primary and secondary sources. The findings reveal that each Caliph had his own approach to the political and legal challenges of their time. Abu Bakr successfully managed the Riddah rebellions through military tactics and diplomacy, while Umar strengthened the economy and law by establishing Baitul Mal and a legal system. Uthman, on the other hand, made a monumental contribution by compiling the Quran, whereas Ali faced more complex political divisions and conflicts during his reign. For a deeper understanding, further research is suggested on how the political legal principles applied by the Caliphs can be adapted in a modern context, and how these internal conflicts teach the importance of diplomacy and justice in governance.