1. Abu Solaiman Khalid Ibne Walid Al Makzumi shortly Khalid Bin Walid is one of the famous generals of all times. In the glorious history of Islam in particular, he holds a predominant position. Born in the year 583 AD in the Banu Makhzum branch of the Quraish, Khalid grew amidst marked affluence. His gifted character, notable family background, early military training and the contemporary scenario made him look a leader in the making even in his early age.
2. He eventually became a leader, both in the ranks of Muslims and Quraish. Ironically, this great general of Islam passed 47 of his 60 years lifetime as a non-Muslim and accepted Islam only 3 years before the death of the holly Prophet. Upon his acceptance of Islam this genius took no time to glorify the religion and the Prophet bestowed him with the title ‘Saifullah’, or ‘Sword of Allah’.
3. Khalid had never lost a battle except the battle of Khandak. He led dozens of expeditions and fought 34 major battles winning in each of those. His mastery in the contemporary warfare and vision of utmost precision made him look invincible even in the eyes of the enemy. He is one of those Generals of Islam who shaped the geography of early-Islamic world. Many maintain that, Khalid’s generalship in the battle of Yarmuk in particular, ensured a viable Islamic region in the Middle East, which holds well even today.
4. Khalid has set unique command and leadership precedence, which is worth studying in days to come. Any viable modern leadership theory can be related to that of Khalid. A thoroughly motivated commander, he was imbibed with values of professional competence, ethical standard, optimum determination and vision. By nature, he was intuitive and mostly played with his luck with positive outcome. He was flexible but decisive, prompt but precise and firm but passionate. An effort will be made in this presentation to study the leadership characteristics of Khalid Bin Walid. In that, reference will be
Bibliography: 1. Lt Col M M Qureshi – “Landmarks of Jihad”, Pakistan, Ashraf Press, 1971. 2. Major General Akbar Khan – “Khalid Bin Waleed”, Islamic Foundation Bangladesh, 1985. 3. Professor Masudul Hasan – “History of Islam”, Adam Publisher, Delhi, 1992.