located near Qubāʾ. So Abū Mūsā followed in that direction until he reached the well and found the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, there. He remained at the entrance, while the Prophet relieved himself, performed ablution, then sat on the edge of the well—its very rim—let his legs dangle inside, and uncovered his shins. The apparent reason, and Allah knows best, is that the weather was hot at the time. The well held water that rose close to the top, and around it were trees, date-palms, and ample shade. In such circumstances people naturally do what the Prophet did: uncover the shins so the body can cool by the freshness of the well-water and the surrounding shade.

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, thus sat in the middle of the rim, his legs hanging down and his shins uncovered, while Abū Mūsā stood at the doorway, guarding the entrance to the well. Abū Bakr—may Allah be pleased with him—then sought permission to enter. Abū Mūsā did not grant it until he had consulted the Prophet. The Prophet said, “That is Abū Bakr asking permission.” He added, “Let him in, and give him the glad tidings of Paradise.” Abū Mūsā opened the door and said, “The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, gives you the glad tidings of Paradise.” What magnificent news: the promise of Paradise, coupled with permission to join the Messenger!

Abū Bakr entered and found the Prophet seated in the middle of the well’s rim, so he sat on the Prophet’s right, for the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, loved to begin with the right in all matters. Accordingly, Abū Bakr sat on his right.