Othman Ibn Affan was the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, serving from 644 to 656 CE. He was a close companion of the Prophet Muhammad and played a significant role in the early spread of Islam. Othman is known for commissioning the compilation of the Quran into a single book, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Othman was born into the Umayyad clan of the Quraish tribe in Mecca. His leadership faced challenges, including internal dissent and political strife, which ultimately led to his assassination in 656 CE. His reign is marked by both expansion of the Islamic state and growing tensions within the Muslim community.