We used to compare the people as to who was better during the lifetime of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) . We used to regard Abu Bakr as the best, then `Umar, and then `Uthman .
Companions of the Prophet
Sahih al-Bukhari 3655
The Excellence of the Rightly Guided Caliphs
This narration from the Sahih of Imam al-Bukhari establishes the consensus of the Companions regarding the superiority of the first three Caliphs. The Companions, who were the most knowledgeable about the merits of each individual, unanimously agreed upon this ranking during the Prophet's lifetime and after his passing.
Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) is accorded the highest station due to his being the first to embrace Islam, his unwavering faith, his companionship during the Hijrah, and his being appointed to lead the prayers during the Prophet's final illness - all indications of his preeminence.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars of Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah have established that the order of excellence among the Companions follows the order of their caliphate: Abu Bakr, then Umar, then Uthman, then Ali (may Allah be pleased with them all). This understanding is derived from numerous authentic narrations and represents the orthodox position of Sunni Islam.
This ranking does not diminish the status of other Companions, but rather acknowledges the specific virtues and positions granted by Allah to these distinguished individuals. Their excellence is established through divine selection and the testimony of the Prophet Muhammad himself.