Abu Bakr

Lore & Background

Abu Bakr was born in Mecca to a rich family of the Banu Taym tribe. He was literate and developed a fondness for poetry and genealogy. He was among the earliest converts to Islam and is considered the first Muslim missionary, as several companions converted through him. He accompanied Muhammad on the migration to Medina and became one of his bodyguards, participating in all campaigns and serving as the first amir al-hajj in 631. In Muhammad's absence, Abu Bakr led the prayers.

Following Muhammad's death in 632, Abu Bakr succeeded as the first caliph, elected at Saqifa. His election was contested by rebellious tribal leaders. During his reign, he overcame uprisings known as the Ridda Wars, consolidating Muslim rule over the Arabian Peninsula. He also commanded initial incursions into the Sasanian and Byzantine empires. He is credited with the compilation of the Quran, of which he had a personal caliphal codex. He died of illness in August 634 after a reign of 2 years, 2 months and 14 days, the only Rashidun caliph to die of natural causes.

Reader's Guide

Abu Bakr's brief reign set in motion a historical trajectory that led to the establishment of one of the largest empires in history. His decisive victory over local Arab rebel forces during the Ridda Wars marks a significant chapter in Islamic history. He commanded the initial invasions of the Sasanian and Byzantine empires, which eventually resulted in the Muslim conquests of Persia and the Levant. Sunni tradition reveres Abu Bakr as the first of the Rashidun caliphs and the greatest individual after the prophets and messengers, while Twelver Shia tradition views him as a usurper of the caliphate and an adversary of the ahl al-bayt. His compilation of the Quran and his nomination of Umar as his successor were key acts that shaped the early Islamic state.

Did You Know?

• Abu Bakr was granted the honorific title al-Ṣiddīq (the Veracious) by Muhammad.
• He is considered the first Muslim missionary, as several companions converted through him.
• He purchased and freed eight slaves, including Bilal ibn Rabah, paying 40,000 dinar.
• He was the only Rashidun caliph to die of natural causes.

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"How wretched are those in the sight of God who disobey Him." — Abu Bakr "It is a matter of great shame that the birds wake up in the morning before you." — Abu Bakr "Give brief orders; speeches that are too long are likely to be forgotten." — Abu Bakr "The Biography of Abu Bakr as-Siddeeq, p. 726, also quoted in Tareekh ul-Islam by Imam Al-Dhahabi, p. 116-117." — Abu Bakr