A Brief Overview of the Life of Abu Bakr (RA):
- Introduction to Abu Bakr Siddique (RA):
Abu Bakr al-Siddique, Abdullah bin Abu Quhafa Uthman al-Taimi al-Qurashi (573 CE—634 CE), was the first caliph in Islam, one of the ten promised Paradise, the first successor of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and a close companion and father-in-law of the Prophet ﷺ. He was also the companion on the journey of migration to Madinah. Among Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jama’ah, Abu Bakr al-Siddique (RA) is regarded as the best of humanity after the Prophets and Messengers, the foremost among the companions in faith and piety, and the most beloved to the Prophet ﷺ after Umm al-Mu’minin Aisha, the daughter of Abu Bakr. He is commonly known by the title “al-Siddique,” which the Prophet ﷺ gave him for his unwavering support and truthfulness.
- Early Life and Embrace of Islam:
Abu Bakr al-Siddique (RA) was born in Makkah in the year 573 CE, approximately two years and six months after the Year of the Elephant. During the pre-Islamic era, he was among the wealthiest individuals of the Quraysh. When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ presented Islam to him, he accepted it without hesitation, becoming the first free adult man to embrace Islam.
- Struggles, Migration, and Leadership after the Prophet ﷺ:
After accepting Islam, he spent thirteen years in Makkah, enduring severe hardships and persecution. Later, he migrated from Makkah to Yathrib (Madinah) in the company of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He participated in the Battle of Badr and all other military campaigns alongside the Prophet ﷺ. During the Prophet’s final days of illness, he instructed Abu Bakr to lead the prayers in the Prophet’s Mosque. On the day of the Prophet’s passing, in Rabi’ al-Awwal, 11 AH, the Muslims pledged allegiance to Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) as their caliph.
- Challenges and Achievements during the Caliphate:
Upon assuming the caliphate, Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) appointed governors, officials, and judges across the Islamic territories. He dispatched armies and confronted the Arab tribes who had rejected certain tenets of Islam. Eventually, the entire Arabian Peninsula came under the rule of the Islamic state. After suppressing the Ridda Wars, Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) sent military expeditions to conquer Iraq and Syria. By the end of his caliphate, most of Iraq and a significant portion of Syria were under Muslim control. In Jumada al-Akhirah of the year 13 AH, at the age of sixty-three, Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) passed away, and Umar ibn al-Khattab succeeded him as the next caliph.i
مَثَلُ الَّذِينَ يُنْفِقُونَ أَمْوَالَهُمْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ كَمَثَلِ حَبَّةٍ أَنْبَتَتْ سَبْعَ سَنَابِلَ فِي كُلِّ سُنْبُلَةٍ مِائَةُ حَبَّةٍ وَاللَّهُ يُضَاعِفُ لِمَنْ يَشَاءُ وَاللَّهُ وَاسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ * الَّذِينَ يُنْفِقُونَ أَمْوَالَهُمْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ ثُمَّ لَا يُتْبِعُونَ مَا أَنْفَقُوا مَنًّا وَلَا أَذًى لَهُمْ أَجْرُهُمْ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِمْ وَلَا خَوْفٌ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا هُمْ يَحْزَنُونَ
The Virtue of Abu Bakr Siddique (RA):
Narrated Abu Ad-Darda:
While I was sitting with the Prophet (ﷺ), Abu Bakr came, lifting up one corner of his garment, uncovering his knee. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Your companion has had a quarrel.” Abu Bakr greeted the Prophet (ﷺ) and said, “O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)! There was a quarrel between me and the son of Al-Khattab. I spoke to him harshly and then regretted it. I asked him to forgive me, but he refused. This is why I have come to you.” The Prophet (ﷺ) said three times, “O Abu Bakr! May Allah forgive you.” Meanwhile, Umar regretted his refusal to accept Abu Bakr’s apology. He went to Abu Bakr’s house and asked if Abu Bakr was there. They replied in the negative. So, he came to the Prophet (ﷺ), greeted him, and signs of displeasure appeared on the Prophet’s (ﷺ) face until Abu Bakr pitied Umar. Abu Bakr knelt and said twice, “O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)! By Allah! I was more unjust to him than he was to me.” The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Allah sent me as a Prophet to you people, but you said to me, ‘You are lying,’ while Abu Bakr said, ‘He is truthful,’ and supported me with himself and his wealth.” He then said twice, “Will you not stop harming my companion?” After that, no one harmed Abu Bakr again.ii
When we study the life of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddique (RA), we observe countless virtues and qualities in his character. In this article, we will highlight five prominent qualities as follows:
- Wisdom and Insightfulness (The Quality of Vision and Foresight):
Abu Bakr As-Siddique (RA) exemplified wisdom and insightfulness through his clear vision, ability to recognize the truth, and unwavering trust in the Prophet (ﷺ). His actions consistently demonstrated foresight and a deep understanding of Islam. The following examples highlight this quality:
- Immediate Acceptance of Islam:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Whenever I invited someone to Islam, they would show hesitation, reluctance, and contemplation except for Abu Bakr. He neither held back nor hesitated when I invited him.iii
This immediate acceptance of Islam reflects Abu Bakr’s wisdom and insight. He recognized the truth without hesitation, a sign of his deep foresight and ability to distinguish right from wrong.
- Unwavering Trust during the Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj):
Aisha (RA) narrated: “When the Prophet (ﷺ) was taken by night to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, people started talking about it the next morning. Some who had previously believed in him and accepted his message turned away. Men came to Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) and said, “Have you heard what your companion is claiming? He says he was taken by night to Jerusalem.” Abu Bakr (RA) asked, “Did he really say that?” They replied, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘If he said that, then he has spoken the truth.’ They asked, ‘Do you believe he went to Jerusalem and returned before dawn?’ He replied, ‘Yes, indeed I believe him in matters even greater than that I believe him in the revelation that comes from the heavens, whether in the morning or the evening.”iv
Abu Bakr’s unwavering trust in the Prophet (ﷺ), even in extraordinary claims, demonstrates his remarkable vision and understanding of divine matters. His foresight allowed him to see beyond what others questioned, earning him the title “As-Siddique.”
- Foreknowledge of the Prophet’s Passing:
Narrated Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri: Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) sat on the pulpit and said, “Allah has given one of His Slaves the choice of receiving the splendor and luxury of the worldly life whatever he likes or to accept the good (of the Hereafter) which is with Allah. So he has chosen that good which is with Allah.” On that Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) wept and said, “Our fathers and mothers be sacrificed for you.” We became astonished at this. The people said, “Look at this old man! Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) talks about a Slave of Allah to whom He has given the option to choose either the splendor of this worldly life or the good which is with Him, while he says. ‘Our fathers and mothers be sacrifice for you.” But it was Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) who had been given option, and Abu Bakr knew it better than we. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) added, “No doubt, I am indebted to Abu Bakr more than to anybody else regarding both his companionship and his wealth. And if I had to take a Khalil from my followers, I would certainly have taken Abu Bakr, but the fraternity of Islam is Sufficient. Let no door (i.e. Khoukha) of the Mosque remain open, except the door of Abu Bakr.” v
This narration reflects Abu Bakr’s keen insight into the subtle message of the Prophet (ﷺ). While others were unaware, Abu Bakr recognized the underlying reality of the Prophet’s statement, showing his deep understanding and foresight.
- Support amid Early Opposition:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, (to Umar):
“Allah sent me (as a Prophet) to you (people) but you said (to me), ‘You are telling a lie,’ while Abu Bakr said, ‘He has said the truth,’ and consoled me with himself and his money.”vi
Abu Bakr’s unwavering support during the early days of Islam, when others rejected the Prophet (ﷺ), highlights his wisdom and foresight. He trusted the truth of the message when others doubted, providing the Prophet (ﷺ) with much-needed moral and financial support.
- Decisive Leadership (Proactive Decision-Making)
Abu Bakr As-Siddique (RA) exhibited extraordinary leadership skills characterized by decisiveness, unwavering determination, and adherence to principles. His leadership style was rooted in Islamic values, emphasizing obedience to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), and it provided stability and direction to the Muslim community during critical times. Below are examples of his proactive decision-making and the leadership style he demonstrated:
- Abu Bakr’s Speech At Prophet’s (ﷺ) Passing:
Narrated Aisha (RA):
“When Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) passed away, ‘Umar stood and claimed that the Prophet (ﷺ) was not dead, saying, ‘By Allah! Allah’s Messenger is not dead!’ Then Abu Bakr (RA) arrived, uncovered the Prophet’s face, kissed him, and said, ‘Let my mother and father be sacrificed for you. You were good in life and death. By Allah, you will not taste death twice.’ He then addressed the people, saying: ‘Whoever worships Muhammad, know that Muhammad is dead. But whoever worships Allah, know that Allah is Alive and will never die.”
He further recited: إِنَّكَ مَيِّتٌ وَإِنَّهُم مَّيِّتُون” – (O Muhammad) Verily you will die, and they also will die.”vii
وَمَا مُحَمَّدٌ إِلَّا رَسُولٌ قَدْ خَلَتْ مِن قَبْلِهِ الرُّسُلُ ۚ أَفَإِن مَّاتَ أَوْ قُتِلَ انقَلَبْتُمْ عَلَىٰ أَعْقَابِكُمْ ۚ وَمَن يَنقَلِبْ عَلَىٰ عَقِبَيْهِ فَلَن يَضُرَّ اللَّهَ شَيْئًا ۗ وَسَيَجْزِي اللَّهُ الشَّاكِرِينَ
“Muhammad is no more than an Apostle; and indeed many Apostles have passed away, before him, if he dies or is killed, will you then turn back on your heels? And he who turns back on his heels, not the least Harm will he do to Allah and Allah will give reward to those who are grateful.”viii,ix
Through this speech, Abu Bakr quelled the confusion and emotional turmoil that had overtaken the Muslims. His calm and decisive leadership unified the community, restoring clarity and stability.
- Firm Position on Usama’s Expedition:
After the Prophet (ﷺ) appointed Usama (RA), a young commander, to lead an army to Syria, many companions expressed concerns due to the unstable political situation after the Prophet’s passing. Abu Bakr firmly upheld the Prophet’s decree, showcasing his proactive leadership:
- Defending the Expedition:
Abu Bakr (RA) declared:
“By the One in whose hand is Abu Bakr’s soul, even if beasts devoured me, I would still dispatch Usama’s army as the Messenger of Allah commanded. Even if no one remained in the villages but myself, I would still fulfill his command.”
- Dismissing Doubts about Usama’s Leadership:
When Umar (RA) suggested appointing a more experienced commander, Abu Bakr sternly rebuked him:
“May your mother be bereaved of you, son of Khattab? The Messenger of Allah appointed him, and you suggest I remove him?” x
- Accompanying the Army:
Abu Bakr (RA) personally walked beside Usama (RA), who was mounted, as a gesture of respect and to emulate the Prophet’s (ﷺ) conduct.xi
By honoring the Prophet’s (ﷺ) commands, Abu Bakr displayed decisive leadership upholding principles over convenience and serving the mission of Islam over personal or political interests.
- War against the Deniers of Zakat:
Narrated Abu Huraira:
“When Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) died and some Arabs reneged (reverted to disbelief), Abu Bakr decided to declare war against them. Umar said, How can you fight these people when the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “I have been commanded to fight the people until they declare there is no deity but Allah.” Abu Bakr replied, “By Allah! I will fight those who differentiate between prayer and zakat. If they withhold even a she-kid that they used to give during the Prophet’s time, I will fight them.”‘ Umar later remarked, ‘By Allah, I realized that Allah had opened Abu Bakr’s chest to this decision, and I knew it was the truth.” xii
This decision reflects decisive leadership: Abu Bakr firmly upheld Islamic obligations, ensuring the unity and strength of the Muslim community. His determination to fight those who abandoned zakat reaffirmed the collective responsibility of Muslims to adhere to all aspects of Islam, not just selective practices.
- Generosity (Charitable Contributions in the Way of Allah):
- Significance of Generosity:
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allāh is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allāh multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allāh is all-Encompassing and Knowing. Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allāh and then do not follow up what they have spent with reminders [of it] or [other] injury will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.”xiii
These verses beautifully illustrate the essence and immense rewards of generosity in the way of Allah. They liken the act of spending wealth in Allah’s cause to a single seed that grows into seven spikes, each containing a hundred grains, emphasizing the exponential rewards that Allah grants to those who give sincerely and selflessly. The verses further highlight the spiritual purification and emotional tranquility experienced by those who spend without seeking praise or causing harm, assuring them of their reward, freedom from fear, and ultimate contentment.
Spending in the way of Allah is a purification for the Muslim’s soul and a means of drawing closer to Allah. It leads to His love and pleasure in both this world and the Hereafter. Such generosity preserves a Muslim’s wealth and family, serves as evidence of detachment from worldly desires, and opens doors to social solidarity. Additionally, it helps a Muslim earn the love and respect of others, fostering harmony and mutual support within the community.
Abu Bakr As-Siddique (RA) exemplified this ideal, embodying the essence of generosity through his unparalleled charitable contributions and selflessness in the way of Allah. His actions were not merely acts of charity but a profound expression of his unwavering faith, deep sense of responsibility, and love for Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). By living these values, he set a timeless benchmark, illustrating the transformative impact of generosity as outlined in Islamic teachings.
- The Prophet’s Statement About Abu Bakr’s Wealth:
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
“The wealth of none of you has benefited me as much as the wealth of Abu Bakr.” Abu Bakr wept and replied: “O Messenger of Allah, I and my wealth are only for you.”xiv
This reflects Abu Bakr’s unmatched dedication to supporting the Prophet (ﷺ) and the Muslim community, even to the extent of considering his wealth as wholly Allah’s and His Messenger’s (ﷺ). His generosity was driven by complete submission and prioritizing the needs of Islam over personal gain.
- The Verse Referencing Abu Bakr’s Charity:
فَاَمَّا مَنْ اَعْطٰى وَ اتَّقٰى وَ صَدَّقَ بِالْحُسْنٰى فَسَنُیَسِّرُهٗ لِلْیُسْرٰى.
“As for he who gives and fears Allah, and believes in the best [reward], We will ease him toward ease.” (Surah Al-Layl: 5-7)
Abdullah bin Mas’ud (RA) said: “This verse refers to Abu Bakr Siddique.” Most commentators have also interpreted it this way. It is narrated from Aamir bin Abdullah bin Zubair that Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) used to free elderly Muslim men and women who were enslaved.xv
- The Competition Between Umar and Abu Bakr:
Narrated Umar ibn al-Khattab:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commanded us one day to give sadaqah. At that time I had some property. I said: Today I shall surpass Abu Bakr if I surpass him any day. I, therefore, brought half my property. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) asked: What did you leave for your family? I replied: The same amount. Abu Bakr brought all that he had with him. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) asked him: What did you leave for your family? He replied: I left Allah and His Apostle for them. I said: I shall never compete you in anything.xvi
This incident underscores the extent of Abu Bakr’s selflessness. His complete reliance on Allah and the Prophet (ﷺ) exemplifies his faith-driven generosity, setting a precedent for prioritizing Allah’s cause over worldly possessions.
- Compassionate Heart (Forgiving Nature):
A compassionate heart is central to a person’s character, particularly when it comes to forgiveness. Forgiveness, a powerful trait in Islam, fosters peace, reconciliation, and unity. Abu Bakr As-Siddique (RA) demonstrated this virtue in his interactions, even in the face of great personal offense.
- Forgiving Mistah bin Uthatha:
Abu Bakr Siddique (RA), who used to provide for Mistah bin Uthatha due to their kinship and Mistah’s poverty, initially vowed to withhold support after hearing the false accusations made against Aisha (RA). He said, “By Allah, I will never provide for Mistah anything after what he has said about Aisha.” However, Allah revealed the following verse:
وَلاَ يَأْتَلِ أُولُو الْفَضْلِ مِنْكُمْ وَالسَّعَةِ أَنْ يُؤْتُوا أُولِي الْقُرْبَى وَالْمَسَاكِينَ وَالْمُهَاجِرِينَ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ وَلْيَعْفُوا وَلْيَصْفَحُوا أَلاَ تُحِبُّونَ أَنْ يَغْفِرَ اللَّهُ لَكُمْ وَاللَّهُ غَفُورٌ رَحِيم
“Let not those among you who are good and are wealthy swear not to give (help) to their kinsmen, those in need, and those who have left their homes for Allah’s Cause. Let them Pardon and forgive (i.e. do not punish them). Do you not love that should forgive you? Verily Allah is Oft-forgiving. Most Merciful.”xvii
Upon hearing this, Abu Bakr (RA) responded, “Yes, by Allah, I wish that Allah should forgive me.” He then resumed providing Mistah with the aid he had been giving him before, saying, “By Allah, I will never withhold it from him at all.”xviii
This story highlights Abu Bakr’s forgiving nature, aligning perfectly with the theme of compassion. His ability to forgive, even in difficult circumstances, reflects the core of a compassionate heart. Through this act of forgiveness, Abu Bakr not only fulfilled his duty as a believer but also embodied the Islamic teachings of mercy and reconciliation.
- Social Engagement (Serving Others in the Prophetic Manner):
Serving others and engaging with the community was central to the life of the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions, including Abu Bakr As-Siddique (RA). His actions reflected the highest ideals of social engagement, as he consistently served others selflessly in the way of Allah. The following narration highlights Abu Bakr’s exceptional role in helping others in need and his commitment to the welfare of the community:
- Helping Others in Need:
Aisha’s Narration:
Aisha (RA) narrated that from a young age, she had witnessed her parents’ dedication to Islam, with the Prophet (ﷺ) visiting them regularly. During the time when Muslims were persecuted, Abu Bakr (RA) set out for Ethiopia as an emigrant. Along the way, he encountered Ibn Ad-Daghna, the chief of the Qara tribe, who, impressed by Abu Bakr’s good deeds, offered him protection. Ibn Ad-Daghna said:
“A man like you will not go out, nor will he be turned out as you help the poor earn their living, maintain good relations with your kith and kin, help the disabled (or the dependents), provide guests with food and shelter, and help people during their troubles.”
Then Ibn Ad-Daghna took Abu Bakr to the Quraysh chiefs, highlighting the same qualities about him. The Quraysh, acknowledging Abu Bakr’s virtues, agreed to grant him protection. xix
This hadith illustrates Abu Bakr’s deep social commitment and compassion. His generosity and selflessness in serving others reflected the essence of the prophetic manner of social engagement. By helping the poor, maintaining family ties, and assisting those in need, Abu Bakr epitomized the Quranic principles of social solidarity.
