Who are the four rightly guided caliphs?

The Four Rightly Guided Caliphs, also known as the Rashidun Caliphs, are the first four successors of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) who ruled the Islamic Caliphate following his death. They are:

1. Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (رضي الله عنه): Abu Bakr was the closest companion and father-in-law of Prophet Muhammad. He became the first Caliph after the Prophet's death in 632 CE and ruled until his own death in 634 CE. Abu Bakr played a crucial role in uniting the Muslim community and consolidating the Islamic state.

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3. Umar ibn al-Khattab (رضي الله عنه): Umar was a close companion of Prophet Muhammad and succeeded Abu Bakr as the second Caliph in 634 CE. He ruled until his assassination in 644 CE. Umar's reign is known for its expansion of the Islamic empire and establishment of administrative reforms.

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5. Uthman ibn Affan (رضي الله عنه): Uthman was also a companion of Prophet Muhammad and the son-in-law of the Prophet. He became the third Caliph in 644 CE and ruled until his assassination in 656 CE. Uthman's caliphate witnessed both territorial expansion and internal challenges, including opposition from certain factions within the Muslim community.

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7. Ali ibn Abi Talib (رضي الله عنه): Ali was the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, being married to his daughter Fatimah. He became the fourth Caliph in 656 CE after the assassination of Uthman. Ali's caliphate was marked by internal strife, including the First Fitna (civil war) between him and the supporters of Uthman's family, eventually leading to his own assassination in 661 CE.

These four Caliphs are highly revered in Islam for their close association with Prophet Muhammad and their efforts in spreading and consolidating Islam during its formative years. They are often referred to as the "Rightly Guided" due to their adherence to the principles of justice, consultation, and piety.