`Aisha said, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) ordered Abu Bakr to lead the people in the prayer during his illness and so he led them in prayer." `Urwa, a sub narrator, added, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) felt a bit relieved and came out and Abu Bakr was leading the people. When Abu Bakr saw the Prophet (ﷺ) he retreated but the Prophet beckoned him to remain there. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) sat beside Abu Bakr. Abu Bakr was following the prayer of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and the people were following the prayer of Abu Bakr."
The Excellence of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari demonstrates the supreme status of Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) as the foremost companion. The Prophet's selection of Abu Bakr to lead prayers during his final illness indicates his precedence over all other companions in virtue and leadership.
Leadership in Prayer
The Prophet's command establishes that the most virtuous should lead prayers, and Abu Bakr's appointment confirms his excellence. When the Prophet emerged, Abu Bakr's immediate retreat shows proper etiquette, while the Prophet's gesture to remain demonstrates Abu Bakr's confirmed leadership.
Following the Imam
The scene where Abu Bakr follows the Prophet's prayer while the people follow Abu Bakr illustrates the chain of prayer leadership. This teaches that when an imam is following another's prayer, the congregation follows their immediate imam, not the one being followed.
Legal Rulings Derived
Scholars derive that a sick person may appoint a deputy for prayer leadership. The narration also shows the permissibility of praying while sitting when necessary, and that the congregation should continue following their appointed imam even if a more qualified person joins.