Abdullah ibn Amir ibn Kurayz

A Youthful Governor of Basra

When Abu Musa al-Ash’ari was relieved of Basra, Uthman appointed his own cousin Abdullah ibn Amir ibn Kurayz — “who was only 25 years old” — over the province. When men complained of his youth, Uthman defended him: “Abdullah bin Amir is distinguished in prudence, ability and religiosity; being young is not a shortcoming.” 1 History of Islam · Vol 1 · pp. 393, 409 — Najeebabadi — appointed governor at 25; Uthman defends his appointment.

Conqueror of Persia

From Basra he led campaigns deep into Persia: he “resorted to military action and forced them all to obey. He then put down a revolt in Nishapur and then turned towards Harat followed by Balkh, Tabaristan, Kirman, Sajastan and some Provinces of Persia. Abdullah bin Amir came to be known as a terror.” 2 History of Islam · Vol 1 · pp. 398 — Najeebabadi — Abdullah ibn Amir's conquests of Nishapur, Harat, Balkh, Tabaristan, Kirman, Sijistan.

Exposing the Agitator

When the sectarian agitator Abdullah ibn Saba appeared in Basra, Abdullah ibn Amir investigated him; “on inquiry, he arrived at the conclusion that he was bent upon creating mischief and dissension in the ranks of the Muslims.” 3 History of Islam · Vol 1 · pp. 402 — Najeebabadi — Abdullah ibn Amir exposes Ibn Saba's intent to sow dissension.

At the Siege of Uthman

During the siege of Uthman, Ibn Amir was among those in the house with him; he narrated the Caliph’s instruction to those defending him: “The one most useful to me is he who restrains his hand and his weapon.” 4 Hayatus Sahaba · Vol 2 · pp. 414 — Kandhlawi — Abdullah ibn Amir narrates Uthman's words during the siege.

After Uthman’s martyrdom, he reached Makkah and joined Talha, Zubayr and Ya’la ibn Munyah as one of the four commanders of A’ishah’s force marching to Basra. 5 History of Islam · Vol 1 · pp. 440–441 — Najeebabadi — Abdullah ibn Amir as one of four commanders in the march to Basra.