<script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-8283502903234555"
crossorigin="anonymous"></script
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr, as-Siddiq, (RA) was born in 573 A.D. at Mecca. He was two years younger than
the Holy Prophet (SAW). He belonged to a respectable and noble family, the Bani
Tamim, a branch of Quraish Tribe. His ancestry joins with that of the Holy
Prophet (SAW) six generations before. His name was Abdullah. Abu Bakr was his patronymic
name (or Kuniyah) which became so famous that most of the people did not know
his real name. After his conversion to Islam he received the title of
"As-Siddiq" (The Truthful) Testifier to the Truth. His father's name was 'Uthman who was known by his patronymic
name, Abu Qahafah. His mother's name was Salma but she was also known by her
patronymic name, Ummul Khair.
Since his boyhood, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) was a quiet and sincere man. He was very honest and truthful.
Because of his pure character he was the closest friend of the Holy Prophet (SAW)
since his youth and, the friendship proved to be life-long. He was a soft
hearted man and keenly felt others pains and miseries. He used to help the poor
and the needy, the distressed and the exploited.
Even before
embracing Islam He (RA) did not like most of the customs of the days of
ignorance and never drank any liquor.
His main profession
was trade. He also accompanied the Holy Prophet (SAW) in some of his trade
missions. Because of his honesty people trusted him and often kept their money
as a trust with him. His nobleness and truthfulness soon made him a rich
trader. Actually these qualities were soon to serve the noblest cause of Allah.
First man to accept
Islam
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) was a firm friend of
the Holy Prophet (SAW) and knew him better than any other man. His honesty,
nobility, truthfulness and trustworthiness, had great attraction for Hazrat Abu
Bakr (RA). When the Holy Prophet (SAW) disclosed to him secretly about the
revelation of Allah, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) accepted it immediately without
having the slightest doubt. In this way he was the first adult free man to
believe in the Holy Prophet's Mission, and became his confidant. The Holy
Prophet (SAW) once spoke about this, "When I invited people towards Allah,
everybody thought over it and hesitated, at least for a while, except Abu Bakr
who accepted my call the moment I put it before him, and he did not hesitate
even for a moment." When he accepted Islam, the Holy Prophet (SAW) was
very pleased.
Da'wat (Invitation) towards Allah
As soon as He (RA)
had accepted Islam He started the work of Da'wat (Invitation towards Allah)
first secretly and then openly when it was so allowed by the Holy Prophet (SAW)).
First He went to ‘Uthman, Talha, Zubair and Said (RA). They accepted Islam on
his preaching. Next day he went to 'Uthman bin Maz'un, Abu'Ubaidah, Abdur
Rahman bin 'Auf and some other prominent Quraish. They also accepted Islam at
his hands. In the first instance eight prominent figures accepted Islam at the
hands of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (R.A.). Among
them was Hadrat Uthman, the third Caliph of Islam. In this way he was the first
Muslim, after the Holy Prophet, to preach Islam and to invite people towards
Allah in a very fruitful way. The main reason for his success was his
popularity among the Meccans because of his honesty, nobility, trustworthiness,
good morals and fair dealings.
Even though he was
so much respected yet he was not spared, and disbelievers of Mecca did their
best to harass him.
When the number of
Muslims reached 39, Abu Bakr (R.A.) asked the permission of the Holy Prophet (SAW)
to invite people openly. On his persistent request the Holy Prophet (SAW) gave
his consent and all of them went to Haram (the Holy Mosque or Ka ‘bah) for Preaching.
Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) gave a Khutbah (Sermon) which was the first ever
delivered in the annals of Islam. Hadrat Hamzah (RA) accepted Islam the same
day. When disbelievers and idolaters from amongst Quraish heard it they fell on
the Muslims from all sides.
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)
despite the fact that he was considered to be the noblest of all the people in
Mecca, was besmeared with blood. He was kicked, thrashed with shoes, trampled
under feet and handled most roughly and savagely. He became unconcious and
half-dead. This is the place to observe his extreme love for the Holy
Prophet (SAW) that when he gained consciousness and opened his eyes in the
evening he first enquired. "How is the Prophet (SAW)?" His deep love
for the Holy Prophet, really, was the main cause of his success. His love and
respect for the Holy Prophet (SAW) was unbounded.
On another occasion
the Holy Prophet (SAW) was offering his prayer in the Ka'bah, Abu Jahl came and
put a sheet of cloth around his neck and twisted it hard in order to strangle
the Holy Prophet to death. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr saw this, he at once came
and pushing Abu Jahl aside took off the piece of cloth around the neck of the
Holy Prophet (SAW). He then said, "Do you want to kill such a gentle
person who is a Messenger of Allah and declares Allah as the Cherisher and
Sustainer." Then Abu Jahl and other enemies of Islam fell upon Hazrat Abu
Bakr (RA) and beat him severely.
Abu Bakr gets the
title of As-SIDDIQ
The Holy Prophet (SAW)
had Mi'raj (Ascension) in the IOth year of his Mission. He narrated his
Ascension to the people in the morning. Some of them came to Sayyiduna Abu Bakr and said, "Have you listened
to your friend (the Holy Prophet)? 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?" Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) 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 the Holy Prophet (SAW) named him as-Siddiq i.e., the
most Truthful and sincere person in Faith not having even slightest doubt.
Very Trusted
Companion:
When the Holy
Prophet (SAW) decided to migrate to Medina, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) was
the only companion with him. He carried all his money, about five to six
thousand Darhams, and started in the night with the Holy Prophet. They lay
hidden in the cave of Thaur for three days. The Holy Qur'an describes it as
follows
"When the
disbelievers drove him 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". (9:40)
Sayyiduna 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. After three days when Quraish stopped the search of the Holy
Prophet, ‘Amir bin Fuhairah (Abu Bakr's slave) brought two she-camels and both
started for Medina. Thus, of all the companions, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) had the honour of
accompanying the Holy Prophet (SAW) in the most critical days of his life. He
proved to be most trustworthy on all occasions.
Services for the
cause of Islam in Mecca
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) served Islam in
numerous ways. The Quraish cruelly persecuted a number of slaves who had
accepted Islam and made life difficult for them. Muslim slaves were the worst
sufferers at the hands of non-Muslim masters. Hadrat Bilal (a negro), one of
the best known in the galaxy of Companions of the Holy Prophet, was one among
such slaves. His master Umayyah bin Khalf lashed him at night and made him lie
on the burning sand during the day because of Bilal's conversion to Islam. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)bought him freedom
and Bilal became a free Muslim. Other Muslim slaves who were bought by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.), and made free were,
‘Amir bin Fuhairah, Nazirah, Nahdiah, Jariah, Bani Momil and Bint Nahdiah etc.
(R.A.).
Before Hijrah Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) spent lot of money
on new converts.
When he found
himself hard pressed by disbelievers he asked the permission of the Holy
Prophet (SAW) to migrate to Abyssinia in the 5th year of the Mission with other
Muslims. The Holy Prophet (SAW) permitted him but in the way he met
Ibn-ud-Daghna, the chief of another tribe, Qara. On his enquiry Sayyiduna Abu Bakr(R.A.)told him about the
oppression of Quraish and his intention to migrate to Abyssinia. Ibn-ud- Daghna
did not want him to leave Arabia and declared to the people of Mecca that Abu Bakr was under his protection. Then
nobody dared to harm him.
Participated
in Ghazwat:
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) participated in all the battles in which Sayyiduna Rasulullah (SAW)
had to fight against the Kuffar.Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) loved his
faith more than anything else. At the Battle of Badr, his son, Sayyiduna Abdur
Rahman (radi Allahu anhu), was fighting on the side of the Kuffar. After
accepting Islam, Sayyiduna Abdur Rahman (radi Allahu anhu) said to his father,
"O Father, at Badr, you were twice under my sword, but my love for you held
my hand back." To this, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) replied, "Son, if I
had you only once under my sword, you would have been no more." He was so
obdurate in his faith.At the time of the Battle of Tabuk, he bestowed all his
wealth to the war effort, and when Sayyiduna Rasulullah (SAW) asked him,
"What have you left for your family,?" he replied, "Allah and
His Rasool (SAW).
Ameer (Chief) of
Al-Hajjul-Akbar (9 A.H.)
It was the 9th year
of Hijrah when the first Haj took place. The Holy Prophet (SAW) had then
returned from Tabuk expedition but he was so busy that he could not himself
attend the Hajj pilgrimage. He sent Sayyiduna Abu Bakr as-Siddiq
as his deputy to lead the Hajj caravan to Mecca. Among others in the Hajj
caravan were Hadrat Sa'd bin Abi-Waqqas, Jabir, and Hadrat Abu Hurairah (R.A.).
The Holy Qur'an calls this Hajj pilgrimage as "Al-Hajjul-Akbar" (The
Great Hajj) because it was the first ever Hajj in the history of Islam and was
the beginning of a new era of Islamic period and constitution. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) taught the people
the Hajj rites and rituals and gave a historic sermon (Khutbah) on the
Sacrificial Day before the congregation. Hadrat 'Ali followed him and
proclaimed severance of all connections with the heathen world. It was
announced: Non-believers should not approach the Ka'bah; no person should
perform Hajj naked (as was observed before Islam); and all the treaties with
pagan world would cease to operate after four months. The Holy Qur'an mentions
it as follows
"An
announcement from Allah and His Apostle, to the people (assembled) on the day
of the Great Pilgrimage (Al-Hajjul-Akbar), that Allah and His Apostle dissolve
(treaty) obligations with the Pagans. If, then, you repent, it is better for
you (0 Pagan), but if you turn away then you mind it that you cannot frustrate
Allah. And proclaim a grievous penalty to those who reject Faith". (9:3)
Imam of Holy
Prophet's Mosque
Since his arrival
at Medina the Holy Prophet (SAW) himself led the Salats at his mosque all the
time. This was really a high office and was not given to anybody in the
presence of the Holy Prophet (SAW). A few months after his return from the
Farewell Pilgrimage (AI-Hujjatul-Wida’) in IO A.H., the Holy Prophet (SAW) fell
ill. A time came when he was unable to move and could not go to the Mosque to
lead the Salat. He had to appoint someone as the Imam and this honour fell to
the lot of Abu Bakr. Abu Bakr's daughter, Hazrat 'A'isha (RA) was one of the
most beloved wives of the Holy Prophet (SAW). She knew Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A. )was a soft hearted
man and it would be rather hard for him to replace the Holy Prophet (SAW) in
the Salat. So she pleaded with the Holy Prophet (SAW) to excuse Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A. )from this duty but
the Holy Prophet (SAW) did not change his decision even though he was requested
three times.
During those days
once Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was not present at
the time of congregational Salat. Somebody asked Hadrat Umar to lead the Salat.
The Holy Prophet (SAW) after hearing the voice of Hadrat Umar enquired about
the Imam and when he found that Abu Bakr (R.A.) was not leading he was annoyed
and said, "Nobody will lead the Salat besides Ibn Abu Qahafa (i.e Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)". Then Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was called but by
that time Hadrat Umar had completed the Salat. The Salat was repeated by the
order of the Holy Prophet (SAW) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) led
it.
During his
sickness, the Holy Prophet (SAW) once felt some relief and went for Zuhr Salat,
supported by Hadrat ‘Ali and Hadrat ‘Abbas (R.A.). His face beamed with joy and
full satisfaction on seeing Abu Bakr leading the Salat. Sensing the presence of
the Holy Prophet, (SAW) Abu Bakr wanted to step back but the Holy Prophet
stopped him and sat down by his side. After the Salat the Holy Prophet (SAW)
gave his last address: "Allah offered one of His servants the choice of
the life on this earth and a life with Him. But the servant accepted the
latter". Hearing this tears came out of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)
eyes and rolled down to his beard. He thought of the inevitable separation from
his Beloved Master (the Holy Prophet). Most of the people did not understand
the meaning of Holy Prophet's address and they were surprised at Abu Bakr's
crying.
Early in the
morning of the last day of his life, the Holy Prophet's condition became
suddenly better for a while. As the apartment was just adjoining the Mosque, he
raised the curtain and observed the Muslims busy in Salat under the Imamat
(leadership) of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.). A smile lit up the
pale face of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Seeing the sign
of the Holy Prophet's recovery the people in the Mosque lost control over
themselves in sheer delight. They might have fallen out of the file but the
Holy Prophet (SAW) asked Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) to lead the Salat
and he went inside and let the curtain fall
News of the Death
of the Holy Prophet (SAW)
When Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) found the Holy
Prophet (SAW) in a better condition in the morning of the last day of his life,
he went a few miles outside Medina to meet his wife Hadrat Kharjah bint Zuhair
(RA). After hearing the news of the death of the Holy Prophet (SAW), he
immediately returned and saw great rush at the gate of the Mosque. He did not
talk to anybody and went straight to Hadrat ‘ A’isha’s apartment where
the Holy Corpse was lying. After taking permission he entered the apartment and
kissed the Holy Face, tears rolling out of his eyes. Then he remarked,
"May my parents be sacrificed for you. I swear by Allah that death will
never come twice to you. You have tasted the death which was destined for you
and now you will get no other." He covered the Holy Body with a sheet and
came to the Mosque.
A multitude of
people was crying in the Mosque. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) was in a strong emotional
state and was shouting that the Holy Prophet (SAW) had not died. Hadrat Abu
Bakr (R.A.) tried to calm him but Umar did not pay any attention to him. Noting
the delicacy of the situation, Hadrat Abu Bakr stood in another corner of the
Mosque and gave his most effective and historical address. All the people
gathered around him. He said:
"O People! If
any one of you worshipped Muhammad (SAW) he should bear in mind that Muhammad
is dead. But those who worshipped Allah should know that He is Alive and will
never die. Allah says in the Holy Qur'an: "Muhammad is only a Messenger of
Allah. There came down a number of Messengers before him. Then would you turn
back from Islam, if he dies or is killed?"
The address of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr touched the hearts of the
people. Hadrat Umar also cooled down. Hadrat 'Abdullah says, "It seemed
that the verse of the Holy Qur'an to which Abu Bakr referred was just revealed,
although we had recited it several times in the past"
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr chosen as the First
Khalifah
The Holy Prophet (SAW)
did not nominate his successor and left the choice of his deputy or viceroy
(Khalifah) to his Ummah (followers). There were two groups of Muslims in Medina
viz., Muhajirin (the Immigrants from Mecca), and Ansar (Helpers i.e.,
Medinites). After the death of the Holy Prophet (SAW), Ansar (Medinites)
gathered in a big Hall of Medinah known as "Saqifah-i-Bani Sa'idah"
to discuss the appointment of a Khalifah. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)
and Hadrat Umar with other prominent Muhajirin (Immigrants) were in the Mosque.
When they were informed about the gathering of Ansar, Hadrat Abu Bakr and Umar
also went there accompanied by a number of eminent Muhajirin like Hadrat Abu
'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah. Since Hadrat 'Ali and Hadrat Zubair (two prominent
figures among Muhajirin) were not present at the spot, they could not go to 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 Hadrat Abu
Bakr heard it, he said. "We acknowledge the sacrifices of Ansar for Islam.
You really deserve to have a Khalifah from amongst yourselves, but Arabs will
not agree on any "Amir" (Chief of other than a person from the
Quraish." Hearing Hadrat Abu Bakr another Ansari, Khabab bin Mundhar stood
up and said, "Let there be two Amirs (Khalifahs) then, one from amongst
Quraish and another from amongst Ansar." On this Hadrat Umar stood up and
said, "This is not at all possible. There would be great confusion because
of two Amirs." Hadrat Khabbab bin Mundhar did not agree with Umar and
there was a hot talk between them. Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah tried to cool them down.
Then another Ansari Hadrat Bashir bin an-Nu'man (R.A.) stood up and said, "The
Holy Prophet belonged to the Quraish tribe. Quraishites have preference over
others. All the Arabs would agree on them. Therefore a Khalifah must be from
amongst them. We do not want any dispute with Muhajirin in the matter of
Khilafat. We the Medinites are Ansar (Helpers) and we would prefer to remain
Helpers of Allah and His Holy Prophet (SAW)." Another Ansari Hadrat Zaid
bin Thabit (R.A.) also supported this view and said, "There should be a
Khalifah from amongst Muhajirin (Quraishis). We Medinites were Ansar (Helpers)
of the Holy Prophet (SAW) and would 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 Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) 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 Hadrat 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, Abu Bakr excelled at every occasion during the life of the
Holy Prophet (SAW). He deputized the Holy Prophet (SAW) in leading Salats, he
was appointed the Chief of Haj caravan. As such he is the fittest person to be
the Khalifah." Hadrat Abu Bakr still hesitated but Umar (R.A.) and Hadrat
Zaid bin Thabit Ansari held his hand and took pledge of loyalty (Bai'at). Then
Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah and Hadrat Bashir bin an-Nu'man Ansari also
took pledge of loyalty at his hands. Seeing this people from all the sides
rushed to pledge loyalty to Abu Bakr (R.A.) as the first successor of the Holy
Prophet (SAW).
Next day a general
pledge of loyalty (Bai'at) was taken by the Muslims in the Mosque of the Holy
Prophet (SAW). Thus Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) assumed the greatest
office, after the office of prophethood, and became the first Khalifah of
Islam. He gave his first address as a Khalifah in the mosque after the general
"Bai'at" "O
People! I have been chosen by you as your leader, although I am no better than
any of you. If I do any wrong, set me right. Listen, truth is honesty and
untruth is dishonesty. The weak among you are the powerful in my eyes, as long
as I do not give them their dues. The powerful among you are weak in my eyes,
as long as I do not take away from them what is due to others.
"Listen carefully, if people
give up striving for the Cause of Almighty Allah, He will send down disgrace
upon them. If people become evil-doers, Almighty Allah will send down
calamities upon them.
"Obey me as long as I obey
Allah and His Rasul (SAW). If I disobey Allah and His Rasul (SAW), you are free
to disobey me:
In his short
address, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) 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 Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) in the mosque. The
selection of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) is an indicator
towards Islamic Democracy and furnishes example for selection of a Leader for
Ummat-i-Muslimah (Muslim Community) till the Day of Judgment.
Problems faced by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr As-Siddiq as a Caliph
After the death of
the Holy Prophet (SAW), the Arabs were on all sides rising in rebellion.
Apostasy and cynicism raised their heads. Christians and Jews were filled with unrest.
Some Muslim tribes refused to pay Zakat to the Caliph for "Baitul
Mal" (the Public Treasury). Some disbelievers declared themselves to be
prophets. There were many problems and much confusion. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) faced all these with
unparalleled courage and the highest degree of Iman (Faith) which is the
characteristic of a "SIDDIQ". At this place I would like to point out
that "SIDDIQIAT" is the highest stage of Iman (Faith) and
"Tawakkul" (Trust in Allah) after prophethood as pointed out in the
following verse of the Holy Qur'an
"All those who
obey Allah and the Prophet are in the company of those upon whom Allah has
shown favours - of the Prophets, "Siddiqin" (The Sincere),
"Shuhada" (The Martyrs), and "Salihin"(The Righteous
Muslims): Ah! What a beautiful company." (4:69).
Various Expeditions
The freed slave of
the Holy Prophet (SAW) and his adopted son, Hadrat Zaid bin Harith (R.A.) was
martyred at the hands of Syrians (Romans) at Mautah in 8 A.H. A few weeks
before his death the Holy Prophet (SAW) appointed Hadrat Usamah (R.A.), the son
of Zaid to lead an expedition against Syrians in order to avenge the death of
his father, Zaid. When Hadrat Usamah was about to leave, the news of the demise
of the Holy Prophet (SAW) came and the departure of the army was postponed.
After being chosen as Caliph, the first task before Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was to send out this
expedition. As a matter of fact, it was the most critical time in the history
of Islam. The entire peninsula was in a state of unrest and disorder. Some of
the new converts thought Islam would come to an end with the Holy Prophet's
life. Many of the tribes had entered the fold of Islam only a short time before
and were not firm in Islam. About this the Holy Qur'an has already forecast
"The wandering
Arabs (Bedouins) say: We have (firm) faith. Say (to them O Muhammad): You
believe not (firmly), but rather say "We submit", for the Faith has
not entered into your hearts." (39:14).
At the same time
news came to Medina that apostates under the command of some false prophet were
planning to invade the town. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was really facing a
difficult situation. In the circumstances, the companions approached him to
withdraw the expedition of Hadrat Usamah bin Zaid. In their opinion it was
unwise to send troops out of Medina because they were needed at home.
Here was the test
of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) faith in following
the ways of the Holy Prophet (SAW). He got through in his test and proved to be
the most firm among all of his companions including Hadrat Umar. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) said he could never
alter the decision taken by his master (the Holy Prophet). He firmly replied to
his companions, "How can I fold up the flag which was unfurled by the Holy
Prophet (SAW) himself?" When Muslims saw that Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was firm they
requested him to change the command of Hadrat Usamah because he was too young
and inexperienced -- not yet twenty, thus was not fit to lead the expedition.
Hearing this Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A. was much annoyed and
said, "Do you want me to dismiss a man appointed by the Messenger of
Allah?"
At last the army
led by Hadrat Usamah left after three weeks of Holy Prophet's death. Hadrat
Umar (R.A.) was also included in the army. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)
sought Usamah's permission to leave him in Medinah, and he agreed. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) himself bid him
farewell and went to some distance out of Medina. The young commander of the
army was riding a horse and the great Caliph was walking by his side. After
forty days Hadrat Usamah returned to Medinah with a great victory, the victory
of Abu Bakr's (R.A.) firm Faith.
The success of
Usamah's expedition also opened the eyes of those who thought Islam was dying
out after the demise of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Some
of the tribes again came back to Islam which they had left.
BETRAYERS
AND IMPOSTERS
Some others became imposters and
renegades. Tulaiha, Musailimah, Maalik bin Nuwairah, Aswad Ansi and a woman
named Sajah claimed that they were prophets and caused a great deal of
confusion. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) was quick to take action against these
imposters. Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (RA) was sent to deal with Tulaiha who
fled to Syria and later became a Muslim. Maalik bin Nuwarah was killed.
Sayyiduna Ikramah (RA) and Sayyiduna Surahbil (RA) were sent to take action
against Musailimah, but they were defeated. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) sent
Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (RA) to tackle the notorious Musailamah who married
Sajah. In the fight that followed, Sayyiduna Wahshi (RA) killed Musailamah.
Musailamah and Aswad Ansi also claimed to be prophets while Sayyiduna
Rasulullah (SAW) was alive. Aswad was killed by the Muslims of Yemen.
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) swift and
bold steps saved the Islamic State from the serious danger of chaos and
confusion. He could now attend to other urgent problems.
ERA OF CONQUESTS:
During his Khilaafat, Sayyiduna
Abu Bakr (RA) had to take action against the Iranian Empire. The Emperor of
Iran, Khusrou Parvez, was killed by his son, Shirooya, and the whole empire
fell into chaos and disorder. Hurmuz, the Persian governor of Iraq, was very
hostile to the Arabs and he was also cruel to the Muslims living in that area.
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu
anhu) sent Sayyiduna Muthamia (RA) to take action against the Iranians in Iraq.
His forces were not enough and Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (RA) was then sent
with reinforcements. The Muslim army captured vast areas of the Iranian Empire
in several battles.
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) then
turned his attention to the Romans who were causing trouble in the North-West
frontier. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) sent 4 separate armies under
Sayyiduna Ubaidah bin Jarrah, Sayyiduna Amr Ibnul As, Sayyiduna Yazid bin Abu
Sufyaan and Sayyiduna Surahbil bin Hasnal (RA) to deal with the Roman power.
The four armies joined into one
unit to face the Romans more effectively. The Romans had accumulated 150 000
soldiers, but the total Muslim army was only 24 000. Reinforcements were
requested. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) asked Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi
Allahu anhu) to take charge of the Iraqi front and Sayyiduna Muthanna (RA) to
rush to the Syrian front to help fight the huge Roman army. The armies met in
Yarmuk after Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (RA) passed away. In this battle, the Romans
were totally defeated.
Illness of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) and Umar's
Nomination
It was the 7th
Jamada-ul-Akhira, 13 A.H. that As-Siddiq al-Akbar fell ill. He had a severe
fever. When the illness took a serious turn he called the "Shura"
(Advisory Council) to consult about his successor, the second Caliph. Since he
had seen some confusion after the demise of the Holy Prophet for the selection
of a Caliph, he preferred to let the Muslims decide the matter in his presence.
Following were the leading figures present in the Shura: Umar, 'Uthman,'Ali,
'Abdur-Rahman bin 'Auf, Mu'adh bin Jabal, Ubaiy bin Ka'b, Zaid bin Thabit
(Ridwanullah 'alaihim Ajma'in) and other leading Muhajirin and Ansar. According
to some historians he first consulted some of the most prominent Companions
before calling the meeting of the General Shura about this. Among these persons
were 'Uthman,'Abdur rahman bin 'Auf and Usaid bin hadir etc. (R.A.) Hadrat Abu
Bakr put his proposal for Hadrat Umar to be the second Caliph. All of them
agreed with the proposal except for an objection by some of the Companions
about his strictness. That was the only ground on which Hadrat'Ali and Talha
(R.A.) also did not agree with Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.). But Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) rejected their plea
on the ground that the burden of Caliphate would make him milder. Since there
was no opposition to Hadrat Abu Bakr's view, Hadrat Umar was declared to be the
next Caliph and all the Companions, including Hadrat'Ali and Hadrat Talha,
agreed to it.
At this point I
would like to point out that the decision of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)for
the selection (or election) of Hadrat Umar in his presence during his life was
purely based on his "Ijtihad" (Personal Judgment of a Jurist) as
explained by him after his nomination of Umar (R.A.) was recorded. As a matter
of fact it was the need of the time and Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) was totally right
in his "Ijtihad". The proof of this is also the "Ijma’”
(Agreement) of the Companions on his proposal to select a Caliph while he was
still alive.
Although the
appointment of the Caliph did not take place in the same way as it happened
with Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.), it was not
un-democratic in the sense that the nomination of Hadrat Umar took place after
fair consultation with the "Shura". Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)
never wanted anything which would make Islam weak after him. He knew what had
happened after the death of the Holy Prophet (SAW) the repetition of which was
to be avoided. The strength of the Muslim community lay in unity and that had
to be preserved at any cost. For these reasons Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.)
wanted an agreed person to be nominated as his successor in his presence.
Therefore he took a decision by "Ijtihad" for the nomination of a
Caliph after due consultation.
After the
"Shura" (Advisory Council) had agreed on Hadrat Umar, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) asked Hadrat 'Uthman
(R.A.) to write the will
"Bismillah-irrahmanir-Rahim
(In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful)--This is the declaration
which is made by Abu Bakr bin Abi Quhafah while he is about to leave for the
next world. At this time even a non-believer starts to believe, and even a
great sinner returns to faith, and a disbeliever begins to trust in Allah. I
appoint Umar bin Khattab as the Caliph (Khalifah). You must follow his orders
and obey him. I have done everything good for the sake of Allah, for His Holy
Prophet and for the welfare of His Religion and Muslims and for myself in
appointing him (Umar as the Caliph). I hope that he would be honest and just
but if he changes his ways, and becomes unjust, I would have no responsibility,
as I do not have the knowledge of the unseen. Everybody is responsible for what
he does."
Afterwards he went
up to his balcony with the help of some persons and addressed a big gathering
of Muslims: "O my brothers! I have not appointed any of my relations or
brothers as a Caliph; I have chosen the best person among you. Do you agree on
this'? All of them replied in the affirmative. Then he called Umar (R.A.) and
talked with him for a long time and gave him words of parting advice. Some of
them are as under
"O Umar always
fear Allah. An optional deed is not accepted unless the obligatory deed is
done. The weight of your goodness would be heavy on the day of Judgement if you
followed the Right Path in this world. The deeds of the persons who followed
wrong Path in this world be having no weight on the Day of Judgement. They will
have a terrible time. Make the Holy Qur'an and Truth your guide for success.
Umar if you follow the path I propose for you, I will surely be by your
side..........".
As-Siddiq al-Akbar
passes away
After a fortnight's
illness, As-Siddiq al-Akbar passed away at the age of 61 on Tuesday, the 22nd
Jamadal-Akhira, 13 A.H. (23rd August 634 A.D.). Before his death he said to his
daughter Lady ‘A’isha (RA), "Do not use new cloth for my shroud. Wash the
sheet in my use and wrap my corpse in it". His wish was acted upon. His
next wish was to pay all the money he got as salary for Caliph from
"Baitul Mal" (The Public Treasury) after selling his garden. He said,
I did not like to take anything from the "Baitul Mal but Umar pressed me
to accept some allowance so that I would be relieved of my occupation and
devote my full time to the duties of the Khilafat (Caliphate). I was left no
choice but to accept the offer". After his death 'A'isha asked Hadrat Umar
to take over that garden as desired by her father. Umar remarked: "May
Allah bless him. He left no chance for any body to open his lips against
him".
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was a rich merchant
before his Khilafat. After he was selected as Caliph, Hadrat Umar and some
other Companions put pressure on him to leave his business and accept some
allowance from the Baitul Mal. He took the least possible amount which was hardly
sufficient for him and his family. Once his wife wanted to prepare some sweet
dish, and somehow saved something after one month. When she brought to him the
money to make purchases for the sweet dish, Hadrat Abu Bakr said, "It
seems that we have been over-paid, beyond our needs". He then deposited
the saving in the Baitul Mal and she was not able to prepare the sweet dish.
Not only this he got his allowance cut down for future by the amount saved by
his wife.
As-Siddiq al-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.
Abu Bakr, a Saviour of Islam
As-Siddiq al-Akbar
took the office of Caliphate (Khilafat) at the most crucial and critical moment
of Islamic history. He gave Islam a new life after the death of the Holy
Prophet (SAW). Islam, in its infant stage, when he was entrusted with the
responsibility to Caliphate, was threatened by rebellions, rise of false
prophets and apostasy movements. He crushed all the futile powers because of
his unshakeable faith. No amount of difficulties could make him deviate from
the Sunnah (Path) of the Holy Master. 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, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) may rightly be
called the Saviour of Islam.
It was in the time
of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) 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 whole mankind, started to be a world religion in his period.
Collection of the
Holy Qur'an
One of the greatest
services rendered to Islam by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) was the collection
of the Holy Qur'an. There were hundreds of Huffaz (i.e., those who committed
the whole Holy Qur'an to memory) among the Companions during the life-time of
the Holy Prophet (SAW) but it had not been compiled in book form though its
memorisation continued even after the death of the Holy Prophet (SAW). In
various battles which took place against rebels and false prophets, a number of
Huffaz Companions were martyred. In the battle against Musailimah al-Khad-dhab
about seventy Huffaz had died.
It then occurred to
Hadrat Umar (R.A.) that necessary steps should be taken to preserve the Holy
Qur'an intact in its original form against every kind of danger and it was not
wise to depend exclusively upon those who had learnt it by heart. Therefore, he
urged Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) to put it in black and white in the form of a
book. Other Companions also agreed with Umar’s opinion but Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) hesitated in the
beginning because it was not done by the Holy Prophet (SAW). However after some
discussion he agreed to it and appointed Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit (R.A.) for this
work who was hesitant at first but later, he changed his mind and started the
work. Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit was the best qualified person for this work
because he had acted as a writer to the Holy Prophet (SAW), and was one of the
Companions who had learnt the Holy Qur'an directly from him. Moreover, he was
also present on the occasion when the Holy Prophet recited the whole of the
completed Holy Qur'an to angel Gabriel. Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit adopted the same
order of the various chapters of the Holy Book as was revealed to the Holy
Prophet (SAW). In the compilation of the Holy Book a number of prominent
Companions assisted him. The compiled copy of the Qur'an was kept in the house
of Umm ul-Mu'minin, Hadrat Hafsah (RA) who was one of the wives of the Holy
Prophet and daughter of Hadrat Umar. It was proclaimed that anyone, who
desired, might make a copy of it or compare with it the copy one already
possessed.
The collection of
the Holy Qur'an in a book form was not an act against the Sunnah (Ways) of the
Holy Prophet (SAW), because the Holy Qur'an declares itself "A BOOK"
at a number of places e.g., in the very beginning it says
"This is the
Book........." (2:2)
During his
caliphate Hadrat 'Uthman sent copies of the same compilation of the Holy
Qur'an, collected during the period of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.),
to various places of his caliphate.
In this way we see
that Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.) kept doing the great
work of his Holy Master (SAW). With unshakeable faith and full courage he had
struggled to the utmost. Islam is for ever grateful to its greatest hero, the
next to prophets, for the great services he rendered to it.
Sayyiduna Abu Bakr’s (R.A.) caliphate lasted
for only two years, three months and ten days (according to Islamic calendar).
Wives and Children
Wives
·
His first wife was
Qatilah bint 'Abdul 'Aziz who bore to him 'Abdullah and Asma (R.A.).
·
His second wife,
Umm-i-Ruman gave birth to Hazrat ‘A’ isha (R.A.), the most beloved wife
of the Holy Prophet (SAW), and 'Abdur Rahman (RA).
·
Besides these two
he also married Asma' and Habibah (R.A.).
Children
Daughters
(i) Ummul-Mu'minin
Hadrat 'A'isha (R.A.)
(ii) Asma, and
(iii)
Umm-i-Kulthum, born to Habibah after his death.
Sons
(i) 'Abdullah,
(ii),'Abdur Rahman
and
(iii) Muhammad.
In
terse
Sayyiduna Abu
Bakr (R.A.)
was a true servant of Almighty Allah and a duteous follower of Sayyiduna
Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).He wore ordinary clothes and his
meals were very simple. He attended to house-hold work and would go out at
night and seek the poor and destitute. Humility and modesty were the keynotes
of his character. He felt embarrassed when people showered praises on him or
showed him immense respect. He often fasted during the day and spent the whole
night in Salaah and meditation. He was a great orator and a master of genealogy
(one who can trace a person's family line). In personal life, he was a Saint.
He used all his powers to promote the interest of Islam and the good of peopleSayings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) about Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (R.A.):
1. Abu Bakr except from all Prophets are supreme in all human beings. (Tibrani)
2. The most merciful on my Ummah, in my Ummah, is Abu Bakr. (Tirimzi)
3. Oh Abu Bakr!, you will be my companion on the pond of Heaven as you were also my companion in the cave. (Tirimzi)
4. Tell Abu Bakr from my side to offer Salat to people (Muslims). [In absence of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.w)] (Bukhari, Muslim, Tirimzi, Ibn-e-Majah)
5. I don't know uptil when I remain with you, so follow the ones (who will become Caliphs) after me. [Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.w) pointed towards Abu Bakr (r.a) and Umar (r.a)]. And follow the way of Ammar and the words that Abdullah bin Masood tell you, verify it. (Tirimzi)
<script data-ad-client="ca-pub-8283502903234555" async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>
