Uthman (RA) was an incomparably modest and extremely generous companion, one who made an unparalleled contribution to preserving the Quran. Here is a brief profile.
Full name: Uthman ibn Affan ibn Abi al-As al-Qurashi al-Umawi
Kunya: Abu Abdullah
Title: Dhun-Nurayn (“possessor of two lights”)
Tribe: Banu Umayyah (Quraysh)
Born: Circa 576-579 CE, Mecca
Martyrdom: 35 AH (656 CE), Medina (martyred by rebels while reciting the Quran)
Special distinctions
1. The third-greatest person of this ummah after the prophets.
2. One of the earliest converts to Islam.
3. Married two of the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) daughters in succession, earning him the title “Dhun-Nurayn.”
4. One of the 10 companions given the glad tidings of paradise.
5. Elected the third caliph of the Muslim ummah.
6. Compiled the Quran into a single standardized text (mushaf) and sent copies to various regions.
7. The Islamic state expanded significantly during his rule.
8. Gave generously for the Tabuk expedition and endowed the well of Ruma for Muslims’ use.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) on Uthman
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Should I not feel shy before a man before whom even the angels feel shy?” (referring to Uthman). (Sahih Muslim, 2401)
[Primary sources: Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Al-Bidayah wan-Nihayah (Ibn Kathir), Hadith BD — chapter on the virtues of Uthman (RA)]