The Prophet (ﷺ) did not come out for three days. The people stood for the prayer and Abu Bakr went ahead to lead the prayer. (In the meantime) the Prophet (ﷺ) caught hold of the curtain and lifted it. When the face of the Prophet (ﷺ) appeared we had never seen a scene more pleasing than the face of the Prophet (ﷺ) as it appeared then. The Prophet (ﷺ) beckoned to Abu Bakr to lead the people in the prayer and then let the curtain fall. We did not see him (again) till he died.
Call to Prayers (Adhaan)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 681
Narration Context
This hadith describes the final illness of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) when he was unable to lead prayers for three consecutive days. During this period, the Muslim community continued their congregational prayers with Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) leading as imam.
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's (ﷺ) absence from prayer for three days indicates the severity of his final illness. His appearance at the curtain demonstrates his concern for the ummah's worship continuity. The companions' description of his radiant face reflects the divine light (noor) that adorned his blessed countenance, particularly in moments of spiritual significance.
The Prophet's gesture affirming Abu Bakr's leadership in prayer constitutes a clear designation (nass) of Abu Bakr's suitability for leadership. This incident foreshadows his subsequent caliphate. The curtain falling symbolizes the transition from prophetic guidance to righteous caliphal succession.
Scholars note that the Prophet (ﷺ) prioritized communal prayer even during severe illness, emphasizing its paramount importance in Islamic practice. His approval of Abu Bakr's imamate established the precedent for deputy prayer leadership during the imam's absence.
Legal Rulings Derived
When the regular imam is absent, the congregation should appoint a qualified replacement to lead prayers.
The most virtuous and knowledgeable person should lead prayers in the absence of the designated imam.
Congregational prayer must continue even when the primary leader is unavailable.
A leader may delegate authority through gestures when unable to speak.