"We were with `Aisha discussing the regularity of offering the prayer and dignifying it. She said, 'When Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) fell sick with the fatal illness and when the time of prayer became due and Adhan was pronounced, he said, 'Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer.' He was told that Abu Bakr was a softhearted man and would not be able to lead the prayer in his place. The Prophet (ﷺ) gave the same order again but he was given the same reply. He gave the order for the third time and said, 'You (women) are the companions of Joseph. Tell Abu Bakr to lead the prayer.' So Abu Bakr came out to lead the prayer. In the meantime the condition of the Prophet (ﷺ) improved a bit and he came out with the help of two men one on each side. As if I was observing his legs dragging on the ground owing to the disease. Abu Bakr wanted to retreat but the Prophet (ﷺ) beckoned him to remain at his place and the Prophet (ﷺ) was brought till he sat beside Abu Bakr." Al-A`mash was asked, "Was the Prophet (ﷺ) praying and Abu Bakr following him, and were the people following Abu Bakr in that prayer?" Al- A`mash replied in the affirmative with a nod of his head. Abu Muawiya said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) was sitting on the left side of Abu Bakr who was praying while standing."
Call to Prayers (Adhaan)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 664
Historical Context
This narration from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) describes the final illness of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and establishes the critical importance of maintaining congregational prayer even during times of severe hardship.
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's insistence on Abu Bakr leading prayer demonstrates the necessity of preserving the prayer congregation and the importance of qualified leadership. His statement "You are the companions of Joseph" refers to women's emotional nature, acknowledging their concern while affirming the command's validity.
The Prophet's physical condition, requiring support from two men with his legs dragging, illustrates the supreme importance of prayer that even severe illness cannot excuse its performance in congregation when possible.
Abu Bakr's position as prayer leader during the Prophet's lifetime establishes his precedence and suitability for leadership after the Prophet's passing, serving as a subtle divine indication of his future caliphate.
Legal Rulings Derived
A prayer leader may continue leading prayer even if someone more qualified joins the congregation, as demonstrated when the Prophet did not replace Abu Bakr upon arriving.
It is permissible for one to pray sitting while leading others who stand, and for the congregation to follow someone in a different physical position, establishing flexibility in prayer leadership.
The sick may pray in whatever position they can manage, and the congregation should accommodate their imam's condition while maintaining proper prayer formation.