The Ten Promised Paradise: Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq (Allah be pleased with him) – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
This is the second in a series of articles based on the On-Demand Course The Ten Promised Paradise: Life and Lessons. Known for their unwavering commitment to Islam and their close companionship with the Prophet, their righteousness has earned them a special place in Islamic history.
In the history of Islam, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq (Allah be pleased with him) holds a towering position as the foremost of the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) and as the first Caliph of the Muslim Umma. Let us explore his life, virtues, and legacy.
The Importance of Reliable Knowledge and Exemplary Leadership
In today’s world, it’s crucial to be cautious about the sources from which we derive our knowledge and values, especially when it comes to religious teachings. As individuals, we must ensure that we do not take our religion from non-believers or those whose motives might not align with our values. This is particularly important in the context of reading historical accounts or contemporary works published by post-colonial institutions. These sources may carry intellectual justifications for actions such as colonization, and as Muslims, we must approach them critically, maintaining a sense of self-respect and ensuring that the sources we rely on uphold integrity and truth.
It is not enough to accept just anyone as a scholar or guide. While many may carry impressive titles, titles alone do not guarantee religious qualification or moral integrity. We must seek knowledge from those who are not only well-versed in Islamic studies but also possess sound character. These scholars should be reliable, having studied under reputable scholars, and they must be people of uprightness and honesty. Only through such individuals can we ensure that the teachings we follow are grounded in truth and authenticity.
Abu Bakr: The Champion of Truth
The title “Al-Siddiq” is a testament to Abu Bakr’s unique rank among the companions. It is an emphatic form of truthfulness, describing someone who embodies truth in its highest form. Scholars and translators have often rendered this title as “the Champion of Truth,” reflecting his unparalleled devotion to upholding and mirroring the truth brought by the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace). A Siddiq, as described in the Quran, represents the rank of believers who follow the Prophets in faith and character, surpassing all others except for the Prophets themselves.
Allah (Most High) states in the Quran:
“Whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger are with those whom Allah has blessed—the Prophets, the Truthful (Siddiqin), the Martyrs, and the Righteous. And what excellent companions these are!”
[Quran, 4:69]
Early Life and Relationship with the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)
Born into a noble lineage of the Quraysh tribe, Abu Bakr’s ancestry intersects with that of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace). A few years younger than the Prophet, Abu Bakr shared a deep bond of friendship with him, one that extended beyond social connections into a profound spiritual companionship.
Before Islam, Abu Bakr was recognized for his virtue, generosity, and reputation as a man of integrity. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he never worshiped idols. His natural inclination toward truth prepared him to immediately accept the message of Islam when the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) received the first revelation at the age of 40. Abu Bakr became one of the earliest believers, with many historians considering him the first adult male to embrace Islam.
Role in Early Islam
Abu Bakr’s contributions to the nascent Muslim community were unparalleled. Despite the challenges and risks, he dedicated his wealth, time, and influence to supporting the Prophet and spreading Islam. In the early years, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) faced immense resistance, and it was through Abu Bakr’s efforts that many of the early converts were guided to Islam. Approximately half of the first fifty believers accepted Islam through his invitation and influence.
Abu Bakr (Allah be pleased with him) was not only a da’i (caller to Islam) but also a source of financial and moral support for the oppressed. When the Muslim slaves of Mecca, such as Bilal Ibn Rabah (Allah be pleased with him), were tortured for their faith, Abu Bakr purchased their freedom, often paying exorbitant amounts. His generosity knew no bounds, as he prioritized the welfare of the believers over his own wealth.
A Partner in Hardship
Abu Bakr’s loyalty and devotion to the Prophet were evident throughout the trials of the Meccan period. He endured the economic boycott imposed on the Muslims and their allies, standing by the Prophet during their confinement in the valley of Abu Talib. His sacrifice during these years reflected his unwavering belief in the mission of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace).
The Migration: A Story of Loyalty and Sacrifice
When the time came for the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) to migrate from Mecca to Medina, it was a moment that demanded immense patience and faith. While some of the companions migrated secretly, Sayyidina Abu Bakr’s migration was deliberate and open. He prepared his journey with great care, bringing along provisions and even securing a camel for the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), despite the financial hardships they had endured due to the economic boycott. His commitment was evident; he had already made all necessary preparations for both himself and the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), even before being given explicit instructions to do so.
However, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), in a remarkable display of humility, refused to accept these provisions, stating that it was not befitting for a Prophet to do so. Instead, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) paid for everything in full, further illustrating the trust and mutual respect between the two.
The journey itself was fraught with danger, as enemies relentlessly pursued the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and Abu Bakr. Throughout the journey, Sayyidina Abu Bakr demonstrated remarkable dedication by constantly protecting the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace). He would move ahead, behind, and beside the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), ensuring that no harm came from any direction. His selflessness was a testament to his deep love and devotion.
In the Cave: A Test of Faith and Trust
Upon reaching the cave of Thawr, where they took refuge, Sayyidina Abu Bakr’s care for the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) became even more evident. He took every precaution to ensure their safety, even going so far as to seal holes in the cave with his own clothing to prevent any creatures from entering. Some narrations even suggest that he was bitten by a scorpion during this time, yet he remained silent, concerned only for the safety of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace).
When enemies came to the cave, Allah miraculously protected them. A spider spun a web over the entrance, and a bird made its nest nearby, which led the pursuers to believe the cave was uninhabited. During this tense moment, Sayyidina Abu Bakr expressed his concerns, saying, “If they look down, they will see us.” In response, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) reassured him with the famous words: “Do not grieve, indeed Allah is with us.” This moment encapsulates not just the physical protection, but the spiritual strength that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and his companion drew from their faith.
Abu Bakr: The Siddiq
Sayyidina Abu Bakr’s unwavering faith in the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) was cemented long before the migration. After the event of Isra’ wal-Miraj, when the Quraysh mocked the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)’s night journey, Abu Bakr was steadfast in his belief. When asked if he believed the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), he simply responded, “If he said it, it is true.” This unshakable trust in the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) earned him the title “As-Siddiq,” meaning “The Truthful,” a title that became synonymous with his character.
His devotion was not just to the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) but also to the cause of Islam. Despite the financial and personal sacrifices he made, Sayyidina Abu Bakr continued to give generously, particularly during the early years in Medina. When he and the other companions faced the challenges of building a new society, his wealth was always used for the welfare of others.
The Mirror of Prophetic Perfection
One of the most poignant descriptions of Abu Bakr comes from a vision by a pious scholar. The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) was seen gazing into a mirror, and while the Prophet moved away, his reflection remained. This metaphor beautifully captures Abu Bakr’s role as the closest embodiment of the Prophet’s character. While the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) is unmatched, Abu Bakr’s life reflects the teachings and attributes of the Prophet to a degree unparalleled among his companions.
The Role of Sayyidina Abu Bakr After the Prophet’s Passing
The death of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) was a moment of immense grief for the entire Muslim umma. However, it was Sayyidina Abu Bakr who provided clarity during this emotional time. When the news of the Prophet’s (Allah bless him and give him peace) passing initially caused confusion and grief, it was Abu Bakr who reminded the companions of the spiritual truth that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) had left them with the guidance of Allah. His words, “Whoever worships Muhammad, Muhammad has died; but whoever worships Allah, Allah is eternal,” were a profound reminder of the ultimate reality that the message of Islam transcended the life of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace).
Sayyidina Abu Bakr’s leadership during this time was instrumental. His calm and composed response helped the companions navigate their grief and confusion. He was chosen to lead the prayer in the Prophet’s place during his final illness, a clear indication of his closeness to the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and the trust the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) had in him.
As the first Caliph, Abu Bakr preserved the unity of the Muslim state, defended it against internal dissent, and laid the foundations for its future expansion.
Throughout his life, Sayyidina Abu Bakr’s generosity was unparalleled. He was not only a successful businessman but also a philanthropist who used his wealth to support Islam and the Muslim community. His commitment to the welfare of others, including his support for the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) during times of hardship, highlighted his unique role as a leader.
When the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) passed away, Sayyidina Abu Bakr was appointed as the first caliph of the Muslim umma. His leadership was characterized by wisdom, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the teachings of Islam. He was deeply involved in all major decisions, often seeking the counsel of others, including Sayyidina Umar, with whom he shared a special bond.
Abu Bakr: A Leader of Wisdom and Integrity
One of the most exemplary figures in early Islam is Abu Bakr, the first Caliph after the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace). Despite the brevity of his rule, Abu Bakr’s leadership was marked by wisdom, decisiveness, and an unwavering commitment to the preservation of Islam. His leadership was especially significant considering the state of the Muslim community at the time of the Prophet’s death. Many tribes had only recently embraced Islam, and the death of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) led to confusion and instability. Some tribes even refused to pay zakat, questioning the legitimacy of the new leadership.
In response, Abu Bakr took a firm stance, declaring war on those who refused to pay zakat. His reasoning was clear: zakat is an essential pillar of Islam, as emphasized in the Quran, alongside prayer. To reject it was to reject the faith itself. This action, though controversial at the time, was an act of mercy, as it brought rebellious tribes back into the fold of Islam. Abu Bakr’s leadership was not only about maintaining political power but ensuring the integrity and unity of the Muslim Umma.
The Importance of Living Simply and Serving the People
Abu Bakr’s simple lifestyle and selflessness set a remarkable example for future leaders. Even at his deathbed, he instructed that any wealth accumulated during his time as Caliph be returned to the Muslim treasury. His life exemplified the principle of serving the people rather than seeking personal gain from positions of power. His passing left a lasting impact, as his death was seen as a challenge to future leaders to maintain the same level of integrity and service.
The Appointment of Umar ibn al-Khattab
One of the most significant actions of Abu Bakr’s leadership was his appointment of Umar ibn al-Khattab as his successor. Although some may perceive this appointment as arbitrary, it was, in fact, a carefully considered decision. Abu Bakr consulted with the leading companions of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) before making the decision. He recognized that the leader should be someone capable of serving the interests of the people, and Umar’s leadership qualities were well-known. The appointment was also influenced by the growing divisions within the Muslim community, particularly between the Ansar and the Quraysh. Abu Bakr’s decision was based on the need for stability and unity, and Umar’s leadership proved to be transformative for the Umma.
Abu Bakr’s example as a leader was not only one of political and military success but also of personal humility and devotion. Despite his wealth and status before Islam, he did not seek personal gain from his leadership role. His focus was always on serving the greater good and ensuring that the interests of the Muslim community were upheld.
The death of Sayyidina Abu Bakr was a pivotal moment in Islamic history. It marked the end of an era, but it also set a standard for leadership that would influence generations to come. His legacy continues to inspire Muslims to lead with justice, humility, and unwavering faith in Allah. As Muslims, we should seek to emulate the qualities of these early leaders in our own lives, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our faith and dedicated to serving the greater good.
