In the sixth year of Prophethood, Hamza, the Prophet’s uncle and Umar ibn al-Khattab both embraced Islam. The Quraysh were greatly upset at the conversion of Hamza and Umar, since both of them were known for their strength and courage. The Prophet (peace be upon him) had specifically prayed to Allah, asking Him, to guide Umar to Islam. Once Umar embraced Islam, the Muslims gained in confidence. Previously, Muslims used to pray in secret, However when Umar became a Muslim; they began to pray openly in front of the Ka’bah.