Hazrat Umar bin Khatab Razi Allah o Ta’ala initiated many new things. He was a true innovator.
Many of his ideas are still in use by west. Those of you who have visited Europe or USA would easily recognize these:
1- Toll Tax or Import Tax (Ushar / Ushoor or Mahsool Chungi): It was taken only Once per year.
2- Concept of Citizen and Non Citizen: Toll tax was 10 % for Non-Muslims & 2.5 % for Muslims
3- Concept of Residents and Non Residents: Someone living in the country for more than six months was considered Resident and charged half the tax. This law is still implemented in UK, their visit visa is valid for 6 months. Someone living longer than that is considered a resident.
4- No tax on items less than 10 dinaars in value.
5- Half Tax Rate on Wheat and Olive oil. This is still implemented on food items in Europe, there is no or little tax on basic foods.
6- Reciprocal amount of tax on citizens of other countries i.e. we will charge the same amount as they will do to our citizens.
7- Census was started by Umar RA
8- Appointed Judges and established courts
9- Bait al Maal / Treasury
10- Army Offices and Cantonments in different parts of Country
There are many to mention. I just stop here to keep it brief.
In short Umar (RA)’s behavior was Public Centric & Aakhrat oriented. May Allah Ta’ala grant us another Umar, Aameen.
Great content! Keep up the good work!