Hazrat Abu Bakr al-Siddiq ( Razi Allah Anhu)

Uploaded: Thursday, May 21, 2015 - 8:48 PM

The Prophet confirmed his high rank in many of his sayings, among them:

"Allah gave one of His servants a choice between this world and what He has with Him, and that servant chose what Allah has with Him." Abu Bakr wept profusely and we wondered why he wept, since the Prophet had told of a servant that was given a choice. The Prophet himself was that servant, as Abu Bakr later told us. The Prophet continued: "Among those most dedicated to me in his companionship and property is Abu Bakr. If I were to take an intimate friend other than my Lord, I would take Abu Bakr. But what binds us is the brotherhood of Islam and its love. Let no door [of the Prophet’s mosque] remain open except Abu Bakr’s."

"I am excused, before each of my friends, of any intimate friendship with anyone. But if I were to take an intimate friend, I would take Ibn Abi Quhafa as my intimate friend. Verily, your Companion is the intimate friend of Allah!"

"You [Abu Bakr] are my companion at the Basin and my companion in the Cave."

"Call Abu Bakr and his son so that I will put something down in writing, for I fear lest someone ambitious forward a claim, and Allah and the believers refuse anyone other than Abu Bakr."

`Amr ibn al-`As asked: "O Messenger of Allah, who is the most beloved of all men to you?" He replied: "Abu Bakr."

"It is impermissible for a people among whom is Abu Bakr, to be led by other than him."

"Take for your leaders those who come after me: Abu Bakr and `Umar."

"O`Ali! Abu Bakr and `Umar are the leaders of the mature inhabitants of Paradise and its youth among the first and the last, except for Prophets and Messengers."

"The sun never rose nor set over anyone better than Abu Bakr."

"The Prophet used to hold nightly conversations with Abu Bakr in the latter’s house, discussing the affairs of Muslims, and I [`Umar] was present with them."

`Umar was angered by Abu Bakr one day and left him in anger. Abu Bakr followed after him, asking his forgiveness, but `Umar refused and shut his door in his face. Abu Bakr then went to the Prophet and took hold of his garment until his knee showed. The Prophet said: "Your companion has been arguing!" Abu Bakr greeted him and said: "There was a dispute between me and `Umar, then I felt remorse and asked him to forgive me but he would not, so I came to you." The Prophet said, repeating three times: "Allah forgives you, O Abu Bakr! Allah forgives you, O Abu Bakr! Allah forgives you, O Abu Bakr!" Then `Umar felt remorse and went asking for Abu Bakr at his house without finding him. He came to the Prophet and greeted him, but the Prophet’s face changed with displeasure. Seeing this, Abu Bakr sat up on his knees in fear before the Prophet, saying twice: "O Messenger of Allah! I am the one who trangressed. O Messenger of Allah! I am the one who transgressed." The Prophet said to the people: "Allah sent me to you and you all said: ‘You are lying!’ But Abu Bakr said: ‘He said the truth.’ Abu Bakr gave me solace with his person and property. Will you leave my companion alone once and for all? Will you leave my companion alone once and for all?!" After this Abu Bakr was never harmed again.

"Jibril came to me, took me by the hand, and showed me the gate through which my Community shall enter Paradise." Abu Bakr said: "Would that I were with you to see it!" The Prophet said: "Did you not know? You will be the first of all my Community to enter it."

The Secret was transmitted and flowed from the Master of all Nations, the Messenger of Allah صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم to the first Khalif, Imam of Imams, Abu Bakr as-Siddiq رضی اللہ عنہ. Through him the religion was supported and the Truth protected. Allah mentions and praises him in His Holy Qur'an in many verses:

"As for him who gives and keeps his duty, we facilitate for him the way to ease." (Al-Lail (5-7):=)

and

"And (away from the fire) shall be kept the most faithful who gives his wealth, thereby purifying himself,and seeks to gain no pleasure or reward other than the Presence of his Lord, the Most High." (Al-Lail (17-21))

Ibn al-Jawzi states that all Muslim scholars and the Companions were certain that these ayats referred to Abu Bakr. Among all the people he was called "Al-`Atiq," the most pious, delivered from the punishments of the fire.

When ayat 56 of Surah Al-Ahzab revealed that "Allah and his angels bless the Holy Prophet," Abu Bakr asked if he also was included in this blessing. Ayat 43 was then revealed stating:

"He it is who sends His blessing on you and so do His angels, that He may bring you forth out of darkness into light. And He is merciful to the believers." (Al-Ahzab (43))

Ibn Abi Hatim explained that ayat 46 of Surah Ar-Rahman came in reference to Abu Bakr as-Siddiq:

"And for him who fears to stand before his Lord there are two gardens." (Ar-Rahman (46))

"We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents: in pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him birth. The carrying of the (child) to his weaning is thirty months. At length, when he reaches the age of full strength and attains forty years, he says, "O my Lord! Grant me that I may be grateful for Thy favor which Thou hast bestowed upon me, and upon both my parents, and that I may work righteousness such as Thou mayest approve; and be gracious to me in my issue. Truly have I turned to Thee and truly do I bow (to Thee) in submission." Such are they from whom We shall accept the best of their deeds and pass by their ill deeds: (they shall be) among the Companions of the Garden: a promise of truth, which was made to them (in this life)." (Al-Ahqaf (15-16))
Ibn `Abbas says that these ayats came as a description of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, Allah honoring and elevating his state among all the Companions of the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم. Ibn `Abbas notes further that ayat 158 of Surah Al-Imran was revealed in reference to Abu Bakr and Umar رضی اللہ عنہ:

"And take council with them on important matters." (Al-Imran (158))

Finally, the great honor accorded to Abu Bakr in accompanying the Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم on his flight from Makkah to Madinah, is referred to in the ayat:

"When the unbelievers drove him out, he had no more than one companion. The two were in the Cave, and he said to his companion, Fear not, for Allah is with us." (At-Tawbah (40))

In addition to the praise of Allah, Abu Bakr as-Siddiq received the praise of the Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم and of his companions. This is recorded in many well known Hadiths.

The Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم said:

"Allah will show His glory to the people in a general way, but He will show it to Abu Bakr in a special way."

"Never has the sun risen or set on a person, other than a prophet, greater than Abu Bakr."

"Never was anything revealed to me that I did not pour into the heart of Abu Bakr."

"There is no one to whom I am obligated and have not repaid my debt except Abu Bakr, for I owe him much for which Allah will compensate him on the Day of Judgment."

"If I were to take an intimate friend (khalil) other than my Lord, I would have chosen Abu Bakr."

"Abu Bakr does not precede you because of much prayer or fasting, but because of a secret that is in his heart."

Bukhari narrates from Ibn `Umar that, "In the time of the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم we were not recognizing anyone higher than Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, then `Umar, then `Uthman."

Bukhari also narrates from Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiya (Ali's son): "I asked my father, 'Who are the best people after Allah's Apostle صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم?' He said, 'Abu Bakr.' I Asked, 'Who then?' He said, Then `Umar. I was afraid he would say `Uthman next, so I said: 'Then you?' He replied, 'I am only an ordinary person.'"

Tabarani narrated through Mu`adh that the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم said, "I had a vision that I was put on one side of the scale and my Nation was put on the other side and I was heavier. Then Abu Bakr was put on one side and My Nation was put on one side and Abu Bakr was heavier. Then `Umar was put on one side and My Nation was put on the other and `Umar was heavier. Then `Uthman was put on one side and My Nation on the other and `Uthman was heavier. Then the scale was raised up."

Hakim narrated that `Ali was asked, "O Ruler of the Faithful, tell us about Abu Bakr." He said, "He is a person whom Allah called as-Siddiq on the tongue of the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم and he is the khalif (successor) of the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم. We accept him for our religion and for our worldly life."

There are many other hadiths indicating the great attainment of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq with respect to all the other Sahaba.

Abu Bakr was the best friend and most beloved companion of the Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم. He was blessed by being first and foremost, throughout his life, in his belief, his support, and his love of the Holy Prophet. For this quality he was honored with the title of as-Siddiq, or the Veracious.

He was the first free adult man to accept Islam at the hands of the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم. He had never joined in the worship of idols practiced by his contemporaries. He came to Islam without any trace of doubt or hesitation. Many years later the Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم recalled: "Whenever I offered Islam to anyone, he always showed some reluctance and hesitation and tried to enter into an argument. Abu Bakr was the only person who accepted Islam without any doubt or hesitation, and without any argument."

He was first in his spiritual support. He remained steadfast in his support throughout the difficult years in Makkah. He was the first to speak out when events passed beyond the understanding even of the new Muslims themselves, as in the case of the Night Journey. And later in Madinah when the treaty of Hudaybiya was signed, only Abu Bakr remained absolutely faithful. He counseled his companions: "Do not be critical, but hold fast to the stirrup (allegiance) of the Holy Prophet."

He was first in his material support. While others of the Muslims gave large fortunes in support of their faith, Abu Bakr was the first to give everything he had. When asked what he had left for his children he answered: "Allah and His Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم." On hearing this Umar رضی اللہ عنہ said: "None can surpass Abu Bakr in serving the cause of Islam."

He was first in kindness and compassion to his fellow believers. A very wealthy merchant, he always watched out for the poor and the weak. He freed seven slaves before leaving Makkah, among them Bilal رضی اللہ عنہ. He not only spent large amounts to buy them freedom but he then took them into his own household and educated them.

When he assumed the role of khalif he said: "Help me, if I am in the right; set me right, if I am in the wrong. The weak among you shall be strong with me until, God willing, his rights have been vindicated. The strong among you shall be weak with me until, if God wills, I have taken what is due from him. Obey me as long as I obey Allah and His Prophet; when I disobey Him and his Prophet, obey me not."

In early Islam, interpretation of dreams was considered a spiritual exercise. Only those with pure hearts and spiritual vision could have meaningful dreams; and only those with pure hearts and spiritual vision could interpret them. Abu Bakr was an acknowledged interpreter of dreams. The Prophet himself would consult only him in search for clarity of his prophetic dreams.

Before the battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophet saw in a dream that he was herding animals and some of these were being slaughtered. The sword that he held had a piece broken off. Abu Bakr interpreted the slaughtered animals to prophesize the death of many Muslims, and the broken sword to signify the death of one of the Prophet's relatives. Unfortunately both these predictions were realized at the battle of Uhud.

Abu Bakr was also a poet before he became Muslim. He was known for his exceptional recitation and his excellent memory of the long poems in which the Arabs took great pride. These qualities served him well in Islam. His recitation of the Qur'an was so lyrical and charged with emotion that many people came to Islam simply after hearing him pray. The Quraish tried to forbid him to pray in the courtyard of his house in order to prevent the people from hearing him.

It is due to his memory that many of the most important Hadiths come to us today. Among them are those indicating the proper form of prayer and those specifying the proper proportions of Zakat. Yet out of the many thousands of Hadith verified and recorded, only 142 come through Abu Bakr. His daughter, `Ayesha رضی اللہ عنہ, related that her father kept a book of over 500 Hadith but that one day he destroyed it. The knowledge that Abu Bakr chose to keep hidden related to the heavenly knowledge, `ilmu-l-ladunni, the source of all saintly knowledge; a knowledge that can only be transmitted from heart to heart.

Although a quiet and gentle man he was also first on the battlefield. He supported the Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم in all of his campaigns both with his sword and with his counsel. When others failed or ran he remained at the side of his beloved Prophet. It is stated that once `Ali رضی اللہ عنہ asked his companions who they considered to be the bravest. They replied that `Ali was the bravest. But he answered: "No. Abu Bakr رضی اللہ عنہ is the bravest. On the day of the battle of Badr when there was no one to stand guard where the Holy Prophet prayed, Abu Bakr stood with his sword and did not allow the enemy to come near."

He was of course the first to follow the Holy Prophet as Khalif and leader of the Faithful. He instituted the public treasury (Baytu-l-mal) to take care of the poor and needy. He was the first to compile the entire Qur'an and call it "Mushaf."

In regard to spiritual transmission, he was the first person to give instruction in the method of reciting the sacred Kalima (La ilaha ill-Allah) for purifying the heart by Dhikr, and that is still recited by the Naqshbandi Order today.

Although Allah honored Abu Bakr by making him first in innumerable ways, Allah granted him even more honor when he chose him to be second. For Abu Bakr was the only companion of the Holy Prophet on his flight from persecution in Makkah to shelter in Madinah. Probably his dearest title was "the second of two when they were in the cave," already quoted (9:40). Umar رضی اللہ عنہ said: "I wish all the deeds of my life were equal to his deed of that one day."

Ibn `Abbas رضی اللہ عنہ said that one day the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم was sick. He went to the mosque, wrapped his head with a cloth, sat on the minbar, and said, "If I were to take anyone as my intimate friend (khalil), I would take Abu Bakr, but the best friend to me is the friendship of Islam." He then ordered all doors of the neighboring houses which opened into the mosque of the Prophet to be closed except the one of Abu Bakr. And that door is still open till this day.

The four Imams and the Shaikhs of the Naqshbandiyya understand from this Hadith that anyone who approaches Allah through the teachings and example of Abu Bakr رضی اللہ عنہ will find himself passing through the only door left open to the Presence of the Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم.

From His Saying

"No speech is good if it is not directed toward the pleasure of Allah. There is no benefit from money if it isn't spent in the cause of Allah. There is no good in a person if his ignorance overcomes his patience. And if a person becomes attracted by the charms of this lower world, Allah will dislike him as long as he keeps this in his heart."

"We have found generosity in Taqwa (God-consciousness), richness in Yaqin (certainty), and honor in humbleness."

"Beware of pride because you will be returning to the earth and your body will be eaten up by the worms."

When he was praised by people he would pray to Allah saying:

"O Allah, You know me better than I know myself, and I know myself better than these people who praise me. Make me better than what they think of me, and forgive those sins of mine of which they have no knowledge, and do not hold me responsible for what they say."

"If you expect the blessings of God be kind to His people."

One day he called `Umar and counseled him till `Umar cried. Abu Bakr رضی اللہ عنہ told him:

"If you keep my counsel, you will be safe; and my counsel is: Expect death always and live accordingly."

"Glory to God who has not given to his creatures any way to attain to knowledge of Him except by means of their helplessness and their hopelessness of ever reaching such attainment."

Abu Bakr رضی اللہ عنہ returned to Allah on a Monday (as did the Prophet himself) between Maghrib and `Isha on the 22 of Jumada'l-akhira, 13 A.H. May Allah bless him and give him peace. The Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ و سلم once said to him: "Abu Bakr, you will be the first of my people to enter paradise."

Life Of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq Razi Allah Anhu

"Never has the sun risen or set on a person,
other than a prophet, greater than Abu Bakr."
- Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique was a very pious man from the very beginning.
He was a rich merchant and even before Islam, he was famous for his honesty, justice and trustworthiness. The Quraish considered him a respected man.
He had the most important duties in Makkah as no blood-money could be accepted without his approval. The blood-money itself used to be kept by him.
He also used to hate liquor as much as he hated it after accepting Islam. He believed it degrades the dignity of a man.

Hazrat Abu Bakr had sincere affection for Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) from childhood and he was a member of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s close circle.
When Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) was given Prophethood, the first person he secretly informed was his closest friend, Hazrat Abu Bakr. He was the first man to embrace Islam, and he did so without hesitation - such was the trust and complete faith he had in Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s words.

Hazrat Abu Bakr gets the title of Siddique

Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) was gifted Mi'raj (Ascension) in the 10th year of his Mission, and the next morning he informed his people about the details of the ascension.
Some of them came to Hazrat Abu Bakr and said, "Have you listened to your friend (Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam))? He is claiming that he visited Jerusalem and the Sublime Throne in the Heavens last night and talked with Allah Almighty. Would you believe it?"
Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) immediately replied. "If he said so then it is an absolute truth".
They again said, "Do you believe that he visited all these places and came back within a small part of night?"
He again replied, "Of course I believe in it and I believe in the things which are farther than it, i.e., the news of Hell and Paradise".

For this Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) named him as-Siddiq i.e. the most truthful and sincere person in Faith. For Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique had not even the slightest doubt, and his faith was such that nothing could shake it.

The Cave Saur Incident

A famous story of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique is the one of about Cave Saur (or Ghaar-e-Saur).
The night Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) planned to migrate to Madinah, the leaders of Makkah set out to look for him. He informed Hazrat Abu Bakr that they would leave for Madinah that night, and so they set out on their journey.
Aware of the fact that the Kufar were on a hunt for him, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) decided to take an alternative route.

On the way, he and his blessed companion Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique decided to take shelter in a cave called Cave Saur.
Here they hid for 3 days.

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) said, as narrated by Umar ibn Khattab, "I swear by Allah that you (the Prophet) will not enter the cave before I have done so, for if there is anything in it, I shall be attacked by it, and not you."
Then he entered the cave and swept it and found some holes in the side of it. He tore up a piece of his garment and plugged the holes with it. As there were still two remaining holes left, he thrust his feet into them and told the Messenger of Allah to enter the cave. When he had done so Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) laid his head on Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu)'s lap and went to sleep.
One of Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu)'s foot was stung by a creature in the hole, but he did not move for fear that he might disturb Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and wake him up from his sleep.
The effect of the poison returned later on in his life, and was said to be the cause of his death.

Hazrat Abu Bakr's slave, Amir bin Fuhairah, tended the flocks of goats near the cave during the day and supplied them fresh milk in the night.

On the final day, the Kufar reached the cave that Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and Hazrat Abu Bakr were in.
Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique was full of worry for the safety of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), and the worry worsened when the Kufar were face to face with the two friends in the cave.
But Allah works in wonderful ways; a spider had spun a web across the mouth of the cave which not only helped conceal what was inside the cave, but also decieved the Kufar. They thought the web was old and came to the conclusion that noone had entered the cave in a long time.

Thus, the Kufar ended their search and Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and his blessed companion proceeded on their journey to Madinah.

The exalted status of Hazrat Abu Bakr is such that he is mentioned in the Holy Quran for this incident:

"When the disbelievers drove him (Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)) out; he had no more than one companion. They were two in the cave. And he said to his companion: "Have no fear for Allah is with us". Then Allah sent down His peace upon him."
- The Holy Quran 9:40

Construction of the Holy Prophet's Mosque

There was an urgent need for the construction of a mosque in Madinah, and a house for Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and his family.

The land which was selected for this belonged to two orphans. Their guardians wanted to give the land for the mosque free of charge but Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) did not accept their offer and asked Hazrat Abu Bakr to pay the price for the land.
Thus, Hazrat Abu Bakr became the first Muslim to spend most of his money for the cause of Allahin Madinah. He then participated in the construction of the mosque with the other Muslims.

Sacrifice in the way of Allah

On the occasion of Tabuk expedition, the blessed companions were all giving a portion of wealth in the way of Allah and his beloved Prophet (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).
Hazrat Umar Farooq decided that he would give exactly half of everything he owned. Once he collected it all, he took it to Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), who then asked him what he had left for his family. Hazrat Umar replied that he had left exactly half of his wealth for his family, and Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) accepted his donation.

Shortly afterwards, Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) was on his way to see Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and was carrying a small package with him which contained everything he possessed. He then gave it to Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), who asked him what he had left for his family. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique replied that he had left Allah and his Beloved Rasul for his family.
At this Rasulallah smiled, and it was then that Hazrat Umar Farooq admitted that he could never surpass Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique in willingness to sacrifice for Allah's cause.

Participation in Holy Battles

He fought in almost all the battles along with Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).
In the first battle of Islam at Badr, he was with Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) like a shadow.

His own son, who had not embraced Islam at that time, was fighting on the side of Quraish.
After he accepted Islam, he said to Hazrat Abu Bakr, "Dear father! I found you twice under my sword at Badr but I could not raise my hand because of my love for you".
Hazrat Abu Bakr replied, "If I had a chance, I would not have spared you".

It was Hazrat Abu Bakr's suggestion on which Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) decided to release the prisoners of war after taking ransom.

In the battle of Uhud when some of the Muslims were running away, Hazrat Abu Bakr was firm and when Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) was brought back to the mountain after being injured, he was with him.

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) was the first companion to accept the peace plan of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) without any hesitation at Hudaibiyah, when all the Muslims insisted upon fighting. Even Hazrat Umar (Razi Allah Anhu.) hesitated to accept the treaty but Hazrat Abu Bakr fully supported Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s decision.

Imam of the Holy Prophet's Mosque

Since his arrival in Madinah, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) himself led the prayers at his mosque at all times. This was really a high office and was not given to anybody in the presence of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) - after all who could lead the Prayer when the Imam of all Imams was present?

However, a few months after his return from the Farewell Pilgrimage in 10 A.H., Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) fell ill. A time came when he was unable to move and could not go to the Mosque to lead the prayer. He had to appoint someone as the Imam and this honour fell to Hazrat Abu Bakr.
Hazrat Abu Bakr's daughter, Hazrat Aisha (Razi Allah Anhu) was one of the most beloved wives of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam). She knew that Hazrat Abu Bakr was a soft hearted man and it would be rather hard for him to replace Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) in the case of being an Imam. Thus, she pleaded with Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) to excuse Hazrat Abu Bakr from this duty but Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) did not change his decision even though he was requested three times.

During those days, there was one time when Hazrat Abu Bakr was not present at the time of the congregational prayer. Somebody asked Hazrat Umar to lead the prayer instead. Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) after hearing the voice of Hazrat Umar enquired about the Imam and when he found that Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) was not leading he was annoyed and said, "Nobody will lead the Salat besides Ibn Abu Qahafa (i.e. Hadrat Abu Bakr)". Then Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu.) was called but by that time Hazrat Umar had completed the prayer. The prayer was repeated by the order of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and this time Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) led it.

During his sickness, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) once felt some relief and went for Zuhr prayer, supported by Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Abbas (Razi Allah Anhu).
His blessed face beamed with joy and full satisfaction on seeing Hazrat Abu Bakr leading the prayer. Sensing the presence of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), Hazrat Abu Bakr wanted to step back but Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) stopped him and sat down by his side.
After the prayer, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) gave his last address:
"Allah offered one of His servants the choice of the life on this earth and a life with Him. The servant accepted the latter".
Hearing this tears came out of Hazrat Abu Bakr's eyes and rolled down to his beard. He thought of the inevitable separation from his Beloved Master, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam). Most of the people did not understand the meaning of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s address and they were surprised at Hazrat Abu Bakr's crying.

Early in the morning of the last day of his life, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s condition suddenly became better for a while. As his house was joined to the Mosque, he raised the curtain and observed the Muslims busy in prayer under the Imamat (leadership) of Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu).
A smile lit up the pale face of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam). Seeing the sign of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s recovery, the people in the Mosque lost concentration, due to the sheer delight. They might have fallen out of the line but Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) smiled and simply asked Hazrat Abu Bakr to lead the prayer. Then he went inside and let the curtain fall.

Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) leaves this world

When Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) left this world, Hazrat Abu Bakr was visiting his wife Kharja for a short while.
As soon as he reached Madinah, he went straight to Hazrat Aisha's house where Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) was, and tears poured down his face as he kissed Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s blessed forehead.
Mournfully, he said, “May my parents be sacrificed for you! By Allah, you will not taste death twice. The death which was unavoidable, you have tasted today. There will be no more death for you."

Meanwhile Hazrat Umar, out of love and devastation, was standing outside telling people not to believe that Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) had passed away. The pain of this incident left Hazrat Umar in a state of great shock, and he refused to believe Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) had passed away.

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique asked Hazrat Umar to stop talking, but he wouldn't stop. Then Hazrat Abu Bakr gestured towards the people that he was going to address them, and they turned their attention towards him. Then he said:
“Behold, if you people worshipped Muhammad (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), he has now passed away. And if you worshiped Allah, He is alive and will never die.”
Then he recited a verse from the Holy Quran:

"Muhammad (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) is but a messenger, messengers (the like of whom) have passed away before him.
Will it be that, when he dieth or is slain, ye will turn back on your heels?
He who turneth back on his heels doth no hurt to Allah, and Allah will reward the thankful."

- The Holy Quran 3:144

About the moment Hazrat Abu Bakr recited this verse, Hazrat Abdullah said, "It seemed that this verse had just been revealed, although we had recited it several times in the past."

After hearing this short address of Hazrat Abu Bakr, Hazrat Umar felt the shock of this painful reality and felt himself collapse due to the utter devastation.

Islam's First Khalifa

Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) did not nominate his successor and left this choice to his Ummah (followers).

There were two groups of Muslims in Madinah; the Muhajirin (immigrants from Makkah), and the Ansar (Helpers ie. people of Madinah).

After the death of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), the Ansar gathered in a big Hall of Madinah known as Saqifah-i-Bani Sa'idah to discuss the appointment of a Khalifah.
At that time, Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar, along with other prominent Muhajirin were in the Mosque. When they were informed about the gathering of Ansar, Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar also went there accompanied by a number of eminent Muhajirin like Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah. Hazrat Ali and Hadrat Zubair were not there and so did not attend the gathering.

Much discussion was going on in the gathering of the Ansar about the selection of a Khalifah. Some of the leading Ansar wanted a Khalifah from amongst the Ansar. When Hazrat Abu Bakr heard it, he said, "We acknowledge the sacrifices of the Ansar for Islam. You really deserve to have a Khalifah from amongst yourselves, but Arabs will not agree on any Amir (chief) other than a person from the Quraish."
Hearing Hazrat Abu Bakr, another Ansari, Hazrat Khabab bin Mundhar stood up and said, "Let there be two Amirs (Khalifahs) then, one from amongst Quraish and another from amongst Ansar."
At this, Hazrat Umar stood up and said, "This is not at all possible. There would be great confusion because of two Amirs."
Hazrat Khabbab bin Mundhar did not agree with Hazrat Umar and there was a hot debate between them. Hazrat Abu 'Ubaidah tried to cool them down. Then another Ansari Hazrat Bashir bin an-Nu'man (Razi Allah Anhu) stood up and said, "The Holy Prophet belonged to the Quraish tribe. Therefore, the Quraish have preference over others. All the Arabs would agree with them. Therefore a Khalifah must be from amongst them. We do not want any dispute with Muhajirin in the matter of Khilafat. We, the people of Madinah, are Ansar (helpers), and we would prefer to remain Helpers of Allah and Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)."
Another Ansari Hazrat Zaid bin Thabit (Razi Allah Anhu) also supported this view and said, "There should be a Khalifah from amongst Muhajirin (Quraishis). We people of Madinah, were Ansar (helpers) of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and will remain Ansar (helpers) of his Khalifah as well."
A number of Ansar then supported this view, and there was general satisfaction in the council over the selection of a Muhajir (Quraishi) Khalifah.

Seeing this Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu.) stood up and said, "I propose the name of Umar and Abu Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah for this post. Select anyone of these two men as your Khalifah." But both of them refused and Hazrat Umar said, "Abu Bakr is the best of all of us because Allah has mentioned him in the Holy Qur'an saying: "The one amongst two in the cave" (9:40).
He further said that Hazrat Abu Bakr excelled at every occasion during the life of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam). He deputised Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) in leading prayers and he was appointed as the Chief of Hajj caravan.
Thus Hazrat Umar explained why he believed Hazrat Abu Bakr was the fittest person to be the Khalifah.

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) still hesitated but Hazrat Umar (Razi Allah Anhu) and Hazrat Zaid bin Thabit Ansari took his hand and took pledge of loyalty (Bai'at). Then Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah and Hazrat Bashir bin an-Nu'man Ansari also took pledge of loyalty at Hazrat Abu Bakr's hands. Seeing this, people from all sides rushed to pledge loyalty to Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) as the first successor of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

The next day a general pledge of loyalty (Bai'at) was taken by the Muslims in the Mosque of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam). Thus Hazrat Abu Bakr assumed the greatest office, after the office of Prophethood, and became the first Khalifah of Islam.
Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique requested that he be called Khalifatur Rasul, or the Khalifa of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), whereas the other Khalifas were addressed as Ameerul Mumineen.

He gave his first address as a Khalifah in the mosque after the general pledge of loyalty:

"O People! I have been appointed your trustee, though I am no better than you. If I do right, support me and if I do wrong, correct me. Truthfulness is a deposit and falsehood is defalcation. The weak amongst you is strong in my sight. I will surely try to remove his pain and suffering. And the strong amongst you is weak to me. I will, Allah willing, realise the right from him fully. When obscene things spread among any nation, calamities generally continued to descend upon them. As long as I obey Allah and His Messenger, you should obey me but if I do not obey Allah and His messenger, then obedience to me is not incumbent upon you. Now come and pray."

In his short address, Hazrat Abu Bakr showed the role of an exemplary Khalifah of Islamic Government.
No doubt Islamic Government means "Government of Allah and His Prophet, by His obedient servants for the benefit of the people in this world and in the Hereafter."

About thirty three thousand people took pledge of loyalty (Bai'at) at the hand of Hazrat Abu Bakr in the mosque. The election of Hazrat Abu Bakr is a pointer towards Islamic Democracy and furnishes the example for selection of a leader for a Ummat-e-Muslimah (Muslim Community) till the Day of Judgement.

Hadrat Ali took pledge of loyalty a few months later because he was busy in collecting various parts of the Holy Qur'an.

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique - the Saviour of Islam

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) took the office of Khilafat at the most crucial and critical moment of Islamic history.
He gave Islam life after the death of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

Islam was in its infant stage when he was entrusted with the responsibility of Khilafat.
It was threatened by rebellions, rise of false prophets and apostasy movements. He crushed all the futile powers due to his unshakeable faith. No amount of difficulty could make him deviate from the Sunnah (Path) of beloved Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

It was in the time of Hazrat Abu Bakr that Islam started to cross the Arabian borders.
A major part of Iraq came under his rule and Muslim armies had captured many important cities of Syria.

Thus Islam, the religion of the whole of mankind, started to spread across the world under his rule.

He brought unity among the Muslims and crushed all the rebellions. In view of his great service for the cause of Islam at that critical moment when there was a lot of confusion, Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) is rightly given the title of the Saviour of Islam.

Hazrat Siddiq-e-Akbar passes away

After a fortnight's illness, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (Razi Allah Anhu) passed away on Monday, as did the Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) himself, between Maghrib and Isha prayers, on Jumadi-al-Sani 22, 13 AH (or August 25, 634 AD.)

Before, his departure to the Afterworld, he told his daughter Hazrat Aisha that he wished to shrouded in his used clothes as done by Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), and some new pieces be added to his shroud.
He also requested that when his funeral became ready for burial, he was to be taken to the shrine of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) and permission for entering the Shrine of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) be sought. If the door of the shrine opens on its own, he may be buried there.

When the mourners took his funeral to the door of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s shrine, they said: "Ya Rasulallah! Your companion Abu Bakr seeks permission to enter." And true to Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique's words, the door of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s shrine opened on its own.
Then Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) was laid to rest besides his beloved, Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) used to initiate the recitation of "La Ilaha Illallah" in a circle of his friends at his house. The practice was later adopted by all saints and has become the cornerstone of Sufism.
It was his way and his favours which he imparted upon his companions in that circle of recitation, which continues in the Naqshbandiya order today.

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) was the first in many aspects. He was the first Muslim man. He was the first successor of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).
He was the first ruler who called himself Khalifatur Rasul (Caliph of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)).

Hazrat Siddiq-e-Akbar left behind a noble example of selfless service. He lived and worked for the sake of Islam to his last breath, but sought no reward.

Wives and children

Wives:

His first wife was Qatilah bint 'Abdul 'Aziz who gave birth to his children by the names of Abdullah and Asma (Razi Allah Anhu).
His second wife, Umm-i-Ruman gave birth to Hazrat Aisha (Razi Allah Anhu), the most beloved wife of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam), and Abdur Rahman (R A).

Besides these two he also married Hazrat Asma (Razi Allah Anhu) and Hazrat Habibah (Razi Allah Anhu.).

Children:

Daughters -
(i) Ummul-Mu'mineen Hazrat Aisha (Razi Allah Anhu)
(ii) Hazrat Asma
(iii) Hazrat Umme Kulthum, born to Habibah after his death.

Sons -
(i) Hazrat Abdullah,
(ii) Hazrat Abdur Rahman
(iii) Hazrat Muhammad.

Character and Piety

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq-e-Akbar (Razi Allah Anhu) was the most distinguished figure of Islam after Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

He was mild and gentle but stern when necessary. He was the true embodiment of Islam.
Being lenient, wise, full of wisdom and a great statesman, without doubt he occupies a unique place in the history of Islam.
His name will remain forever in the minds of Muslims.
Hazrat Abu Bakr was the most pious Companion of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

He never took an unlawful meal, regardless of the extent of his hunger.

Once, one of his slaves brought for him some food to eat. He took a morsel out of it but afterwards he learnt that the slave got it as a result of soothsaying.
He then remarked, "Ah! you would have surely killed me".
He tried to disgorge it, and when he did not succeed he drank water and then vomited the whole thing out.

He never spoke any obscene language in any situation.
Once he said a harsh word to Hazrat Umar (Razi Allah Anhu) which he realised later and asked him to forgive him. Hazrat Umar delayed in excusing him. He was so much perturbed that he went to Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam) who asked Hazrat Umar (Razi Allah Anhu) to excuse him.

Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) used to fear Allah most of all.
Once he went to a garden where he saw a bird. He sighed deeply and said, "O bird! You are lucky indeed! You eat and drink as you like and fly, but do not have fear of reckoning on the Day of Judgement. I wish that I were just like you".
Sometimes he said, "I wish I were a blade of grass whose life ended with the grazing of some beast; or a tree that would be cut and done away with".

He was a great worshipper. It is said that Hazrat Abu Bakr (Razi Allah Anhu) used to perform prayer similar to that of Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).
He was the one who spent all of his belongings for the sake of Allah and His Beloved Prophet (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam).

Rasulallah (Sallalaho Alaih-e-Wassalam)'s praise about Hazrat Siddiq-e-Akbar

- "Abu Bakr's name shall be called out from all the gates of Paradise and he will be the first person of my Ummah to enter it."

- "Allah will show His glory to the people in a general way, but He will show it to Abu Bakr in a special way."

- "Never has the sun risen or set on a person, other than a prophet, greater than Abu Bakr."

- "Never was anything revealed to me that I did not pour into the heart of Abu Bakr."

- "There is no one to whom I am obligated and have not repaid my debt except Abu Bakr, for I owe him much for which Allah will compensate him on the Day of Judgement."

- "If I were to take an intimate friend (khalil) other than my Lord, I would have chosen Abu Bakr."

- "Abu Bakr does not precede you because of much prayer or fasting, but because of a secret that is in his heart."

Hazrat Abu Bakr al-Siddiq ( Razi Allah Anhu)

From His Saying

Life Of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq Razi Allah Anhu

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