What was the job of both early and later caliphs?

Early and later caliphs served as both political and religious leaders in the Islamic community, acting as successors to the Prophet Muhammad. Their primary responsibilities included administering justice, upholding Islamic law (Sharia), leading military campaigns, and promoting the spread of Islam. They also managed state affairs, collected taxes, and maintained order within the rapidly expanding Muslim empire. Over time, the role of caliphs evolved, with later caliphs often becoming more centralized rulers with significant political power.