Sayyiduna wa Mawlana-l Imam 'Uthman ibn Affan was born in Taif in 576CE. He was the third caliph and twice son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (May the Salutations of Allah be upon him and Peace), and known as 'the possessor of the two lights'. Upon becoming caliph, Imam 'Uthman led a simple life, despite a flourishing family business. Although offered a stipend from the public treasury, the Bayt al-mal, Imam 'Uthman never took any salary for his service as caliph. He showed patience and endurance as leader of the Muslim community and made it his practice to free slaves every Friday, look after widows and orphans, and give extensively in charity.