Abu Bakr facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Abu Bakrأَبُو بَكْرٍ |
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Calligraphic seal featuring Abu Bakr's name, on display in the Hagia Sophia
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| 1st Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate | |||||
| caliphate | 8 June 632 – 23 August 634 | ||||
| Predecessor | Position established | ||||
| Successor | Umar ibn al-Khattab | ||||
| Born | 27 October 573 Mecca, Hejaz, Arabia (present-day Saudi Arabia) |
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| Died | 23 August 634 (aged 60) Medina, Hejaz, Rashidun Caliphate (present-day Saudi Arabia) |
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| Burial | Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Medina | ||||
| Spouse | Qutaylah Umm Ruman Asma bint Umais Habibah bint Kharijah |
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| Issue | Asma Abd al-Rahman Abd Allah Aisha Muhammad Umm Kulthum |
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| Father | Abu Quhafa | ||||
| Mother | Umm al-Khayr | ||||
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| Tribe | Quraysh (Banu Taym) | ||||
| Religion | Islam | ||||
| Occupation | Businessman, public administrator, economist | ||||
Abu Bakr Abdullah ibn Uthman Abi Quhafa (Arabic: أَبُو بَكْرٍ عَبْدُ ٱللهِ إبْنِ أَبِي قُحَافَةَ, romanized: Abū Bakr ʿAbd Allāh ibn ʿAbī Quḥāfa; 27 October 573 – 23 August 634) was a very close friend and father-in-law of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He became the first leader, or Caliph, of the Rashidun Caliphate after Muhammad's death. Sunni Muslims call him "al-Siddiq", which means 'the Truthful' or 'the Righteous'.
Abu Bakr was born in 573 CE in Mecca. His family belonged to the Banu Taym tribe. Even before Islam, he believed in one God and was against idol worship. He was a rich trader and often used his money to free slaves. When he became a Muslim in 610, he became a trusted helper to Muhammad. Muhammad gave him the title "al-Siddiq". Abu Bakr used his wealth to support Muhammad's work and joined him in almost all battles. He also went with Muhammad on his migration to Medina. Many important companions became Muslim because of Abu Bakr's invitations. He was always Muhammad's closest advisor and even led prayers and expeditions when Muhammad was away.
After Muhammad passed away in 632, Abu Bakr was chosen as the first Caliph to lead the Muslim community. Some tribal leaders did not agree with this choice and rebelled. During his rule, Abu Bakr successfully stopped these uprisings, known as the Ridda Wars. This helped to unite and expand the Muslim state across the entire Arabian Peninsula. He also started military actions against the nearby Sassanian and Byzantine empires. These actions later led to the Muslim conquests of Persia and the Levant. Abu Bakr is also known for helping to gather the verses of the Quran into a single book. He chose his advisor Umar to be the next Caliph before he died in August 634. Abu Bakr is buried next to Muhammad in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina, which is a very holy place in Islam. He died from an illness after ruling for about two years.
Even though his time as Caliph was short, he achieved great things. He started a path that led to one of the largest empires in history. Muslims around the world respect Abu Bakr greatly.
Contents
Who Was Abu Bakr?
Understanding His Full Name and Titles
Abu Bakr's full name was Abdullah ibn Abi Quhafa. In Arabic, Abd Allah means "servant of Allah" (God). Before he became a Muslim, he was sometimes called Ateeq, meaning "saved one". Muhammad later confirmed this title.
He was called Al-Siddiq (the truthful) by Muhammad. This happened after Abu Bakr believed Muhammad's story of the Isra and Mi'raj (Night Journey) when others did not. The Quran also mentions him as the "second of the two in the cave". This refers to the time he hid with Muhammad in a cave during their migration to Medina.
Abu Bakr's Early Life
Growing Up in Mecca
Abu Bakr was born in Mecca around 573 CE. He came from a wealthy family in the Banu Taym tribe, part of the Quraysh group. His father was called Uthman Abu Quhafa and his mother was Salma Umm al-Khair.
Like other children of his time, he spent his early years among the Bedouins. He loved camels, which earned him the nickname "Abu Bakr", meaning "father of the camel's calf".
Education and Interests
Abu Bakr was educated, unlike many people then. He enjoyed Arabic poetry and attended poetry gatherings. He had an excellent memory and knew a lot about Arab tribes, their stories, and their politics.
There is a story that as a child, his father took him to the Kaaba to pray to idols. Abu Bakr asked the idols for clothes and food, but they did nothing. He then threw a stone at an idol, saying, "If you are a god, protect yourself!" He left the Kaaba. Even before becoming a Muslim, Abu Bakr was a hanif, meaning he believed in one God and never worshipped idols.
How Abu Bakr Became a Muslim
Accepting Islam
When Abu Bakr returned from a business trip, his friends told him that Muhammad had declared himself God's messenger and started a new religion.
Many historians believe that Abu Bakr was the first free man to accept Islam. Muhammad's wife Khadija was the first woman, Zayd ibn Harithah the first freed slave, and Ali ibn Abi Talib the first child to become Muslim.
Life as a Muslim in Mecca
Abu Bakr's acceptance of Islam was a big moment for Muhammad's mission. His wife, Umm Ruman, became a Muslim. He also convinced many of his close friends to accept Islam. These included important figures like Uthman Ibn Affan (who became the 3rd Caliph) and Zubayr ibn al-Awam.
Slavery was common in Mecca, and many slaves became Muslim. These slaves often faced harsh treatment because they had no tribal protection. Abu Bakr felt sorry for them. He bought eight slaves (four men and four women) and set them free. He paid a lot of money for their freedom.
When his father asked why he didn't free strong, young slaves who could help him, Abu Bakr replied that he was freeing them for the sake of God, not for his own benefit.
Facing Challenges from the Quraysh
For three years, Muslims practiced their faith in secret. In 613, Muhammad was told to openly invite people to Islam. Abu Bakr gave the first public speech inviting people to follow Muhammad. Young men from the Quraysh tribe attacked and beat him. After this, Abu Bakr's mother also became a Muslim. The Quraysh often persecuted Abu Bakr.
In 617, the Quraysh started a boycott against Muhammad's clan, the Banu Hashim. This meant no one could trade with them or marry into their families. Many Muslims had already moved to Abyssinia (now Ethiopia). Abu Bakr also tried to leave Mecca. A friend, Ad-Dughna, offered him protection, allowing him to return. However, due to pressure from the Quraysh, Ad-Dughna had to withdraw his protection.
In 620, Muhammad's uncle and protector, Abu Talib, and his wife Khadija died. Abu Bakr's daughter Aisha was engaged to Muhammad. In 620, Abu Bakr was the first to believe Muhammad's story of the Isra and Mi'raj (Night Journey).
Moving to Medina
The Hijra (Migration)
In 622, Muhammad told Muslims to move to Medina. Abu Bakr went with Muhammad. To avoid the Quraysh, they took a different route and hid in a cave in Jabal Thawr for three days. Abu Bakr's son, Abd Allah ibn Abi Bakr, would secretly bring them news of the Quraysh's plans. His daughter, Asma bint Abi Bakr, brought them food daily. Abu Bakr's servant, Aamir, brought goats to the cave for milk.
Search parties from the Quraysh came very close to the cave entrance but did not see them. This event is mentioned in the Quran. After three days, Abu Bakr and Muhammad continued their journey to Medina.
Life in Medina
In Medina, Muhammad decided to build a mosque. Abu Bakr paid for the land. Muslims, including Abu Bakr, built the Al-Masjid al-Nabawi mosque. Abu Bakr was paired with Khaarijah bin Zaid Ansari as a "brother in faith". Abu Bakr later married Habiba, Khaarijah's daughter. Abu Bakr, who was a cloth trader in Mecca, started his business again in Medina, and it quickly grew.
In 623, Abu Bakr's daughter Aisha moved to Muhammad's house after a simple marriage ceremony. This further strengthened the bond between Abu Bakr and Muhammad.
Abu Bakr's Role in Military Campaigns
Fighting Alongside Muhammad
Abu Bakr was involved in many battles during Muhammad's time.
Battle of Badr (624 CE)
In 624, Abu Bakr was at the Battle of Badr, the first major battle between Muslims and the Quraysh. He guarded Muhammad's tent. Sunni accounts say that during an attack, Abu Bakr helped protect Muhammad.
Battle of Uhud (625 CE)
In 625, Abu Bakr fought in the Battle of Uhud. Many Muslims were defeated, and Abu Bakr himself was wounded. His son, Abd al-Rahman ibn Abi Bakr, who was not yet Muslim, fought for the Quraysh. When his son challenged him to a duel, Muhammad stopped Abu Bakr. Later, when his son said he spared Abu Bakr, Abu Bakr replied he would not have spared his son.
Battle of the Trench (627 CE)
In 627, Abu Bakr participated in the Battle of the Trench. He commanded a section of the ditch that protected Medina. The enemy tried to cross many times but were pushed back. A mosque, 'Masjid-i-Siddiq', was later built where Abu Bakr had defended his section.
Battle of Khaybar
Abu Bakr also took part in the Battle of Khaybar. Muhammad sent Abu Bakr and then Umar to try and capture the strong fortress of Al-Qamus, but they were unsuccessful. Finally, Muhammad sent Ali, who defeated the enemy leader.
Later Campaigns
In 629, Abu Bakr commanded an army under Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah, defeating the enemy. In 630, when Muslims conquered Mecca, Abu Bakr was part of the army. His father, Uthman Abu Quhafa, became a Muslim before the conquest.
Battles of Hunayn and Ta'if
In 630, the Muslim army was ambushed at the Battle of Hunayn. Many soldiers fled, but Muhammad stood firm with only nine companions, including Abu Bakr. Muhammad's uncle, Abbas, called the Muslims back, and they regrouped to defeat the enemy.
Abu Bakr was then asked to lead the Siege of Ta'if. The enemy hid inside their fort. The Muslims used catapults and tried to burn the gate, but it didn't work. After two weeks, Abu Bakr advised raising the siege, and Muhammad agreed. Later, the enemy commander became a Muslim.
Leading the Hajj Pilgrimage
In 631 CE, Muhammad sent a group of three hundred Muslims to perform the Hajj (pilgrimage) in Mecca. He appointed Abu Bakr as their leader. After they left, Muhammad received new revelations from the Quran. He sent Ali to deliver these messages to the people at Mina during the Hajj. Ali joined Abu Bakr's group, explaining his mission was only to deliver a message, not to take over the leadership of the Hajj.
Abu Bakr led the Hajj ceremony, and Ali read the important messages. These messages stated that non-Muslims would no longer be allowed to visit the Kaaba or perform the pilgrimage. This marked a new era where Islam would be supreme in Arabia.
Other Expeditions
Abu Bakr also led a military expedition called the Expedition of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq in July 628 CE. He led a large group into Najd, where many were killed or captured.
In 632, just before his death, Muhammad ordered an expedition to Syria, led by Usama ibn Zayd. Even experienced leaders like Abu Bakr were placed under Usama's command. The army returned to Medina when Muhammad died. Abu Bakr, as Caliph, later sent the expedition again, and it was successful.
Muhammad's Final Days
A Close Friendship
There are many stories showing the deep friendship between Muhammad and Abu Bakr. As Muhammad grew weaker, he asked Abu Bakr to lead the prayers in his place. Abu Bakr did so, even though he was very emotional. One morning, Muhammad entered the prayer hall, and Abu Bakr tried to step back, but Muhammad allowed him to continue leading.
Muhammad once told the community that God had given him a choice between this world and the afterlife, and he had chosen the latter. Abu Bakr understood this meant Muhammad was nearing death and cried, saying, "We and our children will be your ransom." Muhammad comforted him. He also ordered that all doors leading to the mosque be closed, except the one from Abu Bakr's house, saying, "I know no one who is a better friend to me than he."
After Muhammad's Death
When Muhammad died, the Muslim community was in shock. Some, like Umar, found it hard to believe. Abu Bakr returned to Medina, confirmed Muhammad's death, and addressed the people. He said, "If anyone worships Muhammad, Muhammad is dead. If anyone worships God, God is alive, immortal." He reminded them of Quran verses that stated Muhammad, like all prophets, would die. This helped calm the community and prevent idolizing Muhammad.
Becoming the First Caliph
The Meeting at Saqifa
Right after Muhammad's death, a group of Muslims from Medina, called the Ansar, met to choose a new leader. Abu Bakr and Umar learned of this meeting and quickly went there. Abu Bakr warned that choosing a leader outside Muhammad's tribe, the Quraysh, could cause problems. He suggested Umar or Abu Ubaidah as leaders.
A veteran named Habab ibn Mundhir suggested that the Quraysh and Ansar each choose a leader. This led to a heated argument. Umar quickly swore loyalty to Abu Bakr, and others followed. Abu Bakr was then widely accepted as the leader, or Caliph, of the Muslim community.
Some companions, especially Ali ibn Abi Talib, initially did not accept Abu Bakr's authority. Shia Muslims believe that Muhammad had already chosen Ali as his successor. However, after six months, Ali made peace with Abu Bakr and pledged his loyalty.
Abu Bakr's Rule as Caliph
Key Achievements as Caliph
Abu Bakr ruled for about two years and two months. During this time, he successfully put down rebellions by Arab tribes in the Arabian Peninsula during the Ridda wars. In his last months, he sent armies to begin conquests against the Sasanian Empire in Mesopotamia and the Byzantine Empire in Syria. These actions started a path that would lead to one of the largest empires in history.
Abu Bakr focused on state affairs and continued his cloth trade for a short time. However, on the advice of Umar and Abu Ubaidah, he agreed to take a salary from the state treasury and stop his business.
The Ridda Wars
Soon after Abu Bakr became Caliph, several Arab tribes rebelled. These uprisings, known as the Ridda wars (Wars of Apostasy), threatened the new Muslim state. Some rebels claimed to be prophets, like Musaylimah. Others simply refused to pay taxes or wanted to limit the growth of the Islamic state.
Abu Bakr understood that controlling these tribes was vital for the state's survival. He sent military forces to stop the rebellions. He sent Khalid ibn al-Walid to deal with the uprisings, especially Musaylimah, who was the biggest threat. Other commanders were sent to different regions. Abu Bakr also used diplomacy, offering marriage alliances and financial rewards to bring former enemies back to the Caliphate.
By successfully stopping these rebellions, Abu Bakr continued the work of uniting Arabia under Islam, which Muhammad had started. He established Muslim rule over the entire Arabian Peninsula.
Starting Expeditions into Persia and Syria
With Arabia united and a strong army, the Muslim state became a potential threat to the powerful Byzantine and Sasanian empires. Abu Bakr may have thought it was better to attack first. In 633, he sent small armies into Iraq and Palestine, capturing several towns. The Byzantine and Sasanian empires were tired from centuries of war, so their armies were weaker. The Muslim fighters were also very effective and believed strongly in their cause.
Abu Bakr started these conflicts, which eventually led to the Muslim conquests of Persia and the Levant. However, he did not live to see these regions fully conquered, leaving that task to his successors.
Preserving the Quran
Abu Bakr played a key role in writing down the Quran. After a difficult victory in the Battle of Yamama in 632, many Muslims who had memorized the Quran were killed. Umar worried that parts of the Quran might be lost. He asked Abu Bakr to gather and write down all the verses.
Abu Bakr was unsure at first, asking how they could do something Muhammad himself hadn't done. But he agreed and appointed Zayd ibn Thabit, who had been one of Muhammad's scribes. Zayd collected verses from various sources, like palm branches, leather scraps, and from people's memories. The collected verses were written on sheets and checked against those who had memorized the Quran. This finished collection, called the Mus'haf, was given to Abu Bakr. Before he died, he passed it to Umar, who then gave it to his daughter Hafsa. This Mus'haf became the basis for the final, definitive text of the Quran.
Abu Bakr's Death
On August 23, 634, Abu Bakr became ill with a high fever and did not recover. As his condition worsened, he knew his end was near. He asked Ali to perform his ritual washing after death, just as Ali had done for Muhammad.
Abu Bakr felt it was important to choose his successor to prevent disagreements among Muslims after his death. He discussed it with some companions and nominated Umar for the role. Some liked this choice, while others worried about Umar's strict nature.
Umar led Abu Bakr's funeral prayer. Abu Bakr was buried next to Muhammad's grave in Medina. He was the only Rashidun Caliph to die of natural causes.
Abu Bakr's Appearance
Historical descriptions say Abu Bakr had fair skin with a yellowish tint. He was of good build, slender, and tall like a palm tree. He had a hooked nose, thin face, sunken eyes, and strong thighs. He used to dye his hair with henna and black dye.
Abu Bakr's Legacy
Even though Abu Bakr's rule lasted only two years, two months, and fifteen days, he achieved a lot. He successfully started invasions against the two most powerful empires of his time: the Sasanian Empire and the Byzantine Empire.
Abu Bakr was the first Caliph in Islam and the first to choose his successor. He also returned all the money he had taken as a salary from the state treasury when he died. He is also remembered for buying the land for the Al-Masjid al-Nabawi mosque.
Sunni Muslim View
Sunni Muslims consider Abu Bakr to be one of the best people after the prophets. They believe he was one of the "Ten Promised Paradise" (al-‘Ashara al-Mubashshara), meaning Muhammad said they were destined for Paradise. He is seen as the "Successor of Allah's Messenger" and the first of the Rashidun (Rightly Guided Caliphs).
Sunnis believe Abu Bakr was Muhammad's closest friend and confidant, always by his side. They respect his wisdom greatly. Umar ibn al-Khattab once said, "If the faith of Abu Bakr was weighed against the faith of the people of the earth, the faith of Abu Bakr would outweigh the others."
Shia Muslim View
Shia Muslims believe that Ali ibn Abi Talib should have been the leader after Muhammad. They believe Muhammad had clearly chosen Ali as his successor at Ghadir Khumm. Some Shias also believe that Abu Bakr and Umar worked together to take power after Muhammad's death.
Most Twelver Shia (the main branch of Shia Islam) have a negative view of Abu Bakr. They believe he refused to give Muhammad's daughter, Fatimah, the lands of Fadak. Fatimah claimed her father had given her this land as a gift. Abu Bakr said that prophets do not leave worldly possessions as inheritance. Shias believe prophets can inherit and pass on inheritance. They also claim Muhammad gave Fadak to Fatimah during his lifetime, making it a gift, not an inheritance.
Twelver Shias also accuse Abu Bakr of being involved in the burning of Ali and Fatima's house. They also believe Abu Bakr sent Khalid ibn al-Walid to fight those who supported Ali's leadership during the Ridda wars. Twelver Shias also disagree that Abu Bakr or Umar were important in collecting the Quran. They believe they should have accepted the copy Ali had.
However, Sunni Muslims argue that Ali and Abu Bakr were not enemies. They point out that Ali named some of his sons after Abu Bakr. After Abu Bakr's death, Ali raised Abu Bakr's son Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr. Twelver Shias consider Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr a great companion of Ali.
Zaydi Shias, another group of Shias, have a different view. They believe that Zayd ibn Ali (Ali's grandson) said that he had not heard anyone in his family speak badly of Abu Bakr and Umar. He said they ruled fairly and according to the Quran and Muhammad's teachings.
See also
In Spanish: Abu Bakr as-Siddiq para niños
- Laqit bin Malik Al-Azdi, rebel during Abu Bakr's Caliphate
- List of Sahabah
- Sunni view of the Sahaba
- Muadh ibn Jabal
- Sermon of Fadak
Images for kids
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Abu Bakr Abdullah stops Meccan Mobs, who are against Muslims.
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Abu Bakr dying beside Ali
