POLITICAL DELEGITIMISATION AND SOCIAL CRISIS DURING THE REIGN OF CALIPH UTHMAN BIN AFFAN RA (24-35 AH / 644-656 CE)

Abstract

The reign of Caliph Uthman ibn Affan (24–35 AH / 644–656 CE) represents a formative period in Islamic history, marked by extensive territorial expansion and the emergence of profound internal tensions within the Muslim community. This article examines the social and political factors that contributed to the development of political delegitimisation during the later years of Uthman's rule. Particular attention is given to the role attributed to Abdullah ibn Saba and to the mobilisation of opposition groups in Egypt, Kufa, and Basra. Employing a qualitative historical approach, the study analyses major classical sources, including Tarikh al-Tabari, al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah by Ibn Kathir, and al-Fitnah al-Kubra by Taha Husain, alongside selected modern historiographical interpretations. The analysis demonstrates that the crisis of Uthman's caliphate cannot be explained solely through administrative policies or personal leadership style. Rather, it emerged from an accumulation of socio-political grievances, regional dynamics, tribal competition, and the circulation of ideological narratives that challenged political legitimacy. By situating these factors within their broader historical and social contexts, this study highlights the value of a contextual, multidisciplinary approach to understanding political crisis and authority in early Islamic history.