There was a dispute amongst the people of the tribe of Bani `Amr bin `Auf. The Prophet (ﷺ) went to them along with some of his companions in order to make peace between them. The time for the prayer became due but the Prophet (ﷺ) did not turn up; Bilal pronounced the Adhan (i.e. call) for the prayer but the Prophet (ﷺ) did not turn up, so Bilal went to Abu Bakr and said, "The time for the prayer is due and the Prophet (ﷺ) i detained, would you lead the people in the prayer?" Abu Bakr replied, "Yes, you wish." So, Bilal pronounced the Iqama of the prayer and Abu Bakr went ahead (to lead the prayer), but the Prophet came walking among the rows till he joined the first row. The people started clapping and they clapped too much, and Abu Bakr used not to look hither and thither in the prayer, but he turned round and saw the Prophet (ﷺ) standing behind him. The Prophet (ﷺ) beckoned him with his hand to keep on praying where he was. Abu Bakr raised his hand and praised Allah and then retreated till he came in the (first) row, and the Prophet (ﷺ) went ahead and lead the people in the prayer. When the Prophet (ﷺ) finished the prayer, he turned towards the people and said, "O people! When something happens to you during the prayer, you start clapping. Really clapping is (permissible) for women only. If something happens to one of you in his prayer, he should say: 'Subhan Allah', (Glorified be Allah), for whoever hears him (saying so) will direct his attention towards him. O Abu Bakr! What prevented you from leading the people in the prayer when I beckoned to you (to continue)?" Abu Bakr replied, "It did not befit the son of Abu Quhafa to lead the prayer in front of the Prophet.
The Excellence of Peacemaking
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 2690 demonstrates the supreme importance Islam places on resolving conflicts and reconciling between people. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) personally attended to the dispute among Bani `Amr bin `Auf, showing that peacemaking takes precedence even over leading congregational prayer.
Proper Conduct During Prayer
The Prophet (ﷺ) taught that clapping during prayer is only permissible for women, while men should say "Subhan Allah" to alert the prayer leader. This distinction preserves the dignity of prayer while allowing necessary communication.
Abu Bakr's humility is exemplary - he immediately retreated upon seeing the Prophet (ﷺ), demonstrating proper etiquette when a more qualified person arrives to lead prayer.
Leadership and Succession
This incident foreshadows Abu Bakr's future role as the first Caliph. His statement "It did not befit the son of Abu Quhafa to lead the prayer in front of the Prophet" shows his profound respect for the Prophet's station while simultaneously indicating his worthiness for future leadership.
Flexibility in Religious Practice
The narration shows Islam's practical approach to worship - prayer times may be adjusted when necessary for greater communal benefits like peacemaking. The religion accommodates real-life situations while maintaining core principles.