this situation. Even if they had been with him, it cannot be known that their state would have been more perfect than that of Abū Bakr al-Siddīq. Rather, what is consistently known of their conduct and his is that, in times of fear, Abū Bakr surpasses them all in certainty and patience. When grounds for doubt arise, his certainty and tranquillity are greater; and when something causes the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—distress, he is the most intent among them on seeking his pleasure and the furthest from anything that would distress him.

This is known to everyone who has examined their conduct during the lifetime of the Messenger of Allah—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—and after his death. Indeed, when he died, his death was the greatest of the calamities that shook people’s faith, to the point that most (1) of the Bedouins apostatized. It shook even ʿUmar, who had the strongest faith and the greatest certainty among them. Yet Allah Most High’s strengthening of Abū Bakr through the steadfast word was (2) more complete and perfect than His strengthening of anyone else. In his certainty, tranquillity, knowledge, and other qualities, he surpassed ʿUmar and the others. Thus Abū Bakr—may Allah be pleased with him—said:

“Whoever used to worship Muhammad, Muhammad has died. But whoever worships Allah, Allah is Ever-Living and never dies.”

Then he recited the verse:

“Muhammad is no more than a messenger; messengers have passed away before him. If he dies or is killed, will you turn back on your heels? Whoever turns back on his heels will not harm Allah in the least.” [Surah Āl ʿImrān: 144] (3).