A glimpse into the life of the first Caliph and the ‘Saviour of Islam’

Hazrat Abu Bakr (573-634) was born into a distinguished family in Makkah. Abu Bakr’s physical description is unique; historians mentioned that he was fair-skinned and slender, with some noting a shade of yellow in his fair complexion. His physical stature was such that his back leaned forward slightly.
He was the senior companion of Rasūl-Allah (SAW) and, through his daughter Aisha ((RA) the father-in-law of Rasūl-Allah (SAW). After his conversion to Islam, he received the title of Siddique. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) was a wealthy merchant known for his honesty, integrity, and trust. His aversion to alcohol persisted from the days of ignorance to the time of Islam.
When Rasūl-Allah (SAW) was given Prophethood (Nabuwat) and secretly gave da’wah to his faithful and secretive friend, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) was the first to raise his hand to pledge allegiance. As soon as he became a Muslim, he initiated efforts for the propagation of Islam.
Rasūl-Allah (SAW) continued preaching in Makkah for thirteen years despite warnings from non-believers. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) participated in the sufferings and comforts of Rasūl-Allah (SAW). He purchased and set free many slaves persecuted by their masters due to accepting Islam.
Abu Bakr (RA) assumed the office of Khilafat during a critical moment in Islamic history, addressing disunity, false prophets, and rebellions. He brought unity, crushed false prophets, quelled rebellions, and defended against invaders, securing the foundation of Islam. Due to his services at the death of Rasūl (SAW), he is rightly called the saviour of Islam.
His contributions included sending Usamah’s army, securing against domestic threats, uniting Muslims during the Apostates’ War, directing armies to al-Sham, and selecting his successor. All these efforts contributed to the liberation of Bayt al-Maqdis.
From the day he embraced Islam until his demise, Abu Bakr (RA) was the ideal Muslim, excelling in every sphere of life. During the Prophet’s (SAW) lifetime, he was an exemplary soldier and, upon the Prophet’s (SAW) demise, remained steadfast.
Abu Bakr (RA) was the constant companion of Rasūl (SAW), following the faith of Muhammad (SAW). He was the first to attempt collecting the verses of the Holy Quran into one volume, placing all his wealth at the disposal of the nation. Known for his sympathy towards the poor, he used to walk in the streets at night to help the distressed and relieve the destitute.
Armed with iron determination and unshakable faith, he devoted his energy to the administration of the newborn state and the welfare of his subjects. His unwavering adherence to Islam, fidelity to its principles, and simplicity of life were the chief features of his character.
The writer is pursuing an MA in Islamic Studies at the Central University of Kashmir and can be reached at [email protected]

Lone Asma Farooq