Indexed OCR Text

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to his succession after him. In order to emphasise this, Resulullah traiteauf
appointed him to the leadership (Imaamat) of the greatest of acts of worship, viz.
Salaah. It was for this reason that at the time of giving Abu Bakr deals the pledge
of allegiance, the Sahaabah Kcal' said: "If Resulullah hacka chose him for our
Deen (leadership in Salaah) why should we not choose him for our wordly affairs
(caliphate and leadership)?"
In this sermon Rasulullah caf also asked that the army of Usaamah
Meals be despatched quickly. He also said: "I know that some people (referring to
the hypocrites) object to the leadership of Usaamah (for this army) in the sense that
why should a youngster be given leadership when there are so many other senior
people present? Listen! Even before this, there were people who objected to his
father's (Zaid's) leadership. By Allah! His father was qualified for that post and so
is his son, Usaamah, qualified for this post. Furthermore, he is extremely beloved to
me."
Rasulullah stugaileau then said: "Allah's curse befell the Jews and Christians
who turned the graves of their Prophets into places of prostration." Rasulullah
LyckaI wanted to warn the ummah against turning his grave into a place of
prostration.
Rasulullah Uckaf said: "O people! The news has reached me that you have
become fearful of the demise of your Prophet. Has any Prophet before me remained
forever with his people that I should now remain forever with you? Allah Ta'ala
says:
وَمَا جَعَلْنَا لِبَشَرٍ مِّنْ قَبْلِكَ الْخُلْدَ
"We did not allow any human before you to remain till eternity."
وَمَا مُحَمَّدُّ إِلَّا رَسُوْلُ قَدْ خَلَتْ مِنْ قَبْلِهِ الُّسُلُ ـ
"Muhammad is but a Messenger. Messengers before him also passed away."
"Listen! I have to meet Allah and you also have to meet Allah. I advise all the
Muslims to treat the early Muhaajireen with kindness, and I advise the early
Muhaajireen to remain steadfast on the fear of Allah and good deeds. Allah Ta'ala
says:
وَالْعَصْرِ الٌ إِنَّ الْإِنْسَانَ لَفِىْ خُسْرٍ لٌ إِلَّا الَّذِيْنَ امَنُوْا وَ عَمِلُوا الصُّلِحُتِ وَ تَوَاصَوْا بِالْحَقِا
وَ تَوَاصَوْا بِالصَّبْرِ
"By the token of time, man is certainly in loss. Except those who have Imaan and
did good deeds. And they advise each other in matters of truth and they advise each
other to exercise patience."

572
صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
"O Muslims! I advise you to treat the Ansaar well and with kindness. They are the
ones who gave refuge to Islam and Imaan. They made you partners in their homes,
lands, orchards and fruits. They gave preference to you over themselves despite
being in need and in poverty. Allah Ta'ala says:
وَ يُؤْثِرُوْنَ عَلَّ اَنْفُسِهِمْ وَلَوْ كَانَ بِهِمْ خَصَاصَةٌ
"They give preference over themselves even though they themselves may be in dire
circumstances."
"Listen! I am leaving before you. You will also meet me. Our meeting place will be
Haud-e-Kauthar."
Rasulullah Uclea then got off the mimbar and went to his room.
Rasulullah's ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم last Salaah with congregation
As long as he had the strength, Resulullah togattaauf would come to the Masjid for
Salaah and continue leading the Sahaabah peaks in Salaah. The last Salaah which
he led was the Maghrib Salaah of Thursday. He passed away four days later on a
Monday. Ummul Fadl رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا says that Rasulullah ◌َصَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم led us in the Maghrib
Salaah in which he recited Surah wal-Mursalaat. He did not lead us in any Salaah
thereafter, and then he passed away. When the time for the Isha Salaah came, he
asked whether the people had performed their Salaah. The reply was given to him
that the people were waiting for him. He tried getting up several times but the
severity of his illness would cause him to fall unconscious. He eventually said:
"Order Abu Bakr to lead the Salaah on my behalf." Aa'ishah "calle, said to him: "O
Messenger of Allah! Abu Bakr is very soft-hearted. If he were to stand in your
place, he will be overcome by emotion and he will not be able to lead the people in
Salaah. He will start crying and people will not hear his recitation. You should
therefore order 'Umar to lead the Salaah." Although this is what Aa'ishah Geals
said to Rasulullah Lyckats, in her heart she felt that the person who stands in the
place of Rasulullah Uckaf will consider him to be an ill omen (indicating the
departure of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم from this world). Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم therefore
said to her: "You are like the women in the time of Yusuf "Lige. You verbally utter
something while you have something else in your heart. Inform Abu Bakr that
none but he has to lead the people in Salaah."
Rasulullah ◌َصَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم said this to Aa'ishah رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا three times, but each time
she refused. Resulullah Laachauf persisted and emphasised that none but Abu
Bakr Meals should lead the Salaah. Eventually, Abu Bakr xeale, began leading the
people in Salaah.

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On Saturday or Sunday when he felt a bit better, Rasulullah kaf took
رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ and entered the Masjid. Abu Bakr رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ and Ali رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ support of 'Abbaas
was leading the Zuhr Salaah at that time. Rasulullah skal sat down to the
right of Abu Bakr Meals and led the people for the remainder of the Salaah.
Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم was now the Imaam and Abu Bakr ◌ُرَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْه began following
him. The remainder of the people completed their Salaah by following the Takbeers
. رَضِ اللّهُ عَنْهُ of Abu Bakr
This Zuhr Salaah was the last Salaah which Rasulullah Leaf led. After
this, he did not come to the Masjid at all.
On Saturday, Usaamah ◌ُرَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْه and other Sahaabah رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُم who were to leave
for Jihaad came to meet Rasulullah caf . They bid farewell to Rasulullah
stargateati and left. They left Madinah and stopped over at Juruf. They left in
obedience to the instruction of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم, but because of his illness,
they did not have the heart to leave. Rasulullah's Leaf condition worsened on
- صَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ came back to visit Rasulullah رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Sunday. On hearing this, Usaamah
He saw that his condition was quite bad and that he was unable to speak. Usaamah
forehead. Rasulullah صَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ bent down and kissed Rasulullah's رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ
Lckauf. raised both his hands towards the sky and then placed them on
Usaamah ◌ُرضى اللَّهُ عَنْه .Usaamah ◌ُرَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْه says:"I think that Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم was
making dua for me." He then returned to Juruf.
Aa'ishah رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا says that they assumed that Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم was
suffering from pleurisy. They therefore inserted some medicine into his mouth.
Rasulullah Uckauf indicated to them to stop but they thought that he was
merely portraying a natural dislike just as when a person is ill and shows a natural
dislike for a certain medicine. Later, when his condition improved, he asked: "Did I
not stop you? The punishment is that this medicine should be inserted into the
mouths of all of you, apart from 'Abbaas because he did not join you in this
persistence."
The day of Rasulullah's ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم demise
It was a Monday when Resulullah tackauf left this fleeting world for the eternal
life of the hereafter and met with Allah Ta'ala. On the morning of this Monday he
raised the curtain of his room and saw that the Sahaabah were standing in lines
and offering their Fajr Salaah. On seeing the Sahaabah peaks, he smiled.
Abu Bakr Reaks intended to go back (from the spot where he was leading the
Salaah). Rasulullah Ucía indicated to him to continue. Due to his weakness,
Rasulullah Uckauf. could not stand up fully. He lowered the curtain of his room
and went back inside.

574
صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُم raising the curtain and looking at the Sahaabah صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Rasulullah's
was the last time that he appeared before them. And it was the final opportunity of
their seeing the beauty of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم .A poet says:
وكنت أرى كالموت من بين ساعة فكيف ببين كان موعده الحشر
"I used to consider a single moment's separation (from him) to be death. Now what
can I say about this separation after which the next meeting will only be on the Day
of Resurrection ?! "
When Abu Bakr Leaks completed the Fajr Salaah, he went directly to the blessed
room of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم .He said to Aa'ishah رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا:"I see that he is
enjoying peace at present, and the previous pain and discomfort seems to have
improved." Abu Bakr Meals had two wives, one of whom lived just outside
Madinah. That day was the turn of the one who was living outside Madinah. He
therefore sought permission from Rasulullah Uclea in the following words: "O
Prophet of Allah! I see that you have got up in a good condition this morning by
the bounty and grace of Allah Ta'ala. Today is the turn of Bint Khaarijah. Can I go
to her?" He replied: "Yes."
When the others heard that Resulullah gatan was feeling quite well, they
also returned to their homes.
Ali Meals came out of the room, people asked him about Rasulullah's
Lucía. condition. He replied that all praise is due to Allah Ta'ala that he is
feeling quite well. The people were satisfied with this and therefore dispersed.
'Abbaas deaths held Ali deals by the hand and said to him: "O Ali! I swear by
Allah that after three days there will be another ruler and you will be his subject.
By Allah, I think that Rasulullah Ucleaf is going to pass away in this illness. I
think we should ask him as to who should be the caliph after him. If it is one of us,
we will know of it. If not, he will advise us as to who it should be." Ali deals
replied: "It is possible that he will refuse to give it to one of us. If he does that, we
will be deprived of it forever. By Allah, I will not say a single word in this regard to
him."
Rasulullah ◌َصَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم in the throes of death
The people assumed that Rasulullah's Leaf condition had improved and they
therefore dispersed. After a short while, he began experiencing the pangs of death.
He placed his head in the lap of Aa'ishah Goals and lied down. Just then, her
brother, Abdur Rahmaan Medle came in with a miswaak in his hand. Rasulullah
asked: "O Rasulullah! Should I رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا began looking at him. Aa'ishah صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
get a miswaak for you?" Rasulullah caf nodded in the affirmative. She then

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asked: "Should I soften it for you?" He again nodded in the affirmative. She
softened it by chewing on it and then gave it to him. Later on, Aa'ishah Gewiss
used to proudly express this great favour of Allah Ta'ala that He caused her saliva
to mix with that of Rasulullah's Lackauf during this final hour of his, that he
passed away in her room, when it was her turn, and on her shoulder.
The person who is constant in using the miswaak will automatically recite the
kalimah at the time of death, while this will not be the case of the one who
consumes opium.
A glass of water was kept at Rasulullah's Leaf side. He repeteadly
extended his hand towards it, dipped his hand in it and wiped his face with it.
While doing this, he would say: "There is none worthy of worship but Allah. Surely
there are many pangs of death." He then looked at the ceiling, raised his hands and
said: "O Allah! I want to go to ar-Rafiq ul-A'laa - the highest companion." This
refers to the sanctified place which is the abode of the Prophets and Messengers.
'Aa'ishah رضى اللَّهُ عَنْهَا says: "I had heard Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم saying on several
occasions that the soul of a Messenger is not taken until he is shown his abode in
Jannah, and until he is given the choice to either remain in this world or to leave it.
When he said the above words, I immediately understood that he will no longer
remain with us and that he has already chosen to be in the close companionship of
Allah Ta'ala. When he said:
اَللَّهُمَّ الرَّفِيْقَ الأَعْلَى
"O Allah! I desire to be in the highest companionship."
His soul had traversed this realm towards the upper realm and his hands (which
had been raised) fell down.
إِنَّا للهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُوْنَ
"To Allah we belong and to Him is our return."
The date of Rasulullah's ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم demise
This heart-rending and soul-tearing incident which deprived this world of the
blessings of prophet-hood and Messenger-ship and the illumination of divine
revelation took place on a Monday afternoon, on the 12th of Rabi'ul-Awwal.
There is no difference of opinion with regard to the fact that Rasulullah
.passed away in Rabi'ul-Awwal on a Monday صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
However, there are various opinions with regard to the exact date of
Rasulullah's Lucía demise. The famous opinion is that it was the 12th of
Rabi'ul-Awwal. Some say it was the 1st while others say it was the 2nd.
At the time of his demise, Rasulullah cheauf was 63 years old.

576
صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
The uneasiness of the Sahaabah peaks
As soon as the news of this sign of Qiyaamah reached the ears of the Sahaabah
Acaule, it was as though the resurrection had begun. The moment they received
this news, they lost their senses. Panic descended on Madinah. Whoever received
this news fell into bewilderment. 'Usmaan deals was in a state of shock. He was
sitting against a wall, and due to his extreme sorrow, was unable to speak. Ali
Ledlg cried so profusely that he fell unconscious. The mountain of grief and pain
that befell Aa'ishah رضى اللَّهُ عَنْهَا and the other wives of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم cannot
even be described. 'Abbaas Weaks was also at a loss in this severe grief. 'Umar
Meals suffered the most grief and affliction. He unsheathed his sword, stood up
and announced in a loud voice: "The hypocrites assume that Resulullah Ligasteauf
has passed away. He certainly has not passed away. Rather he is gone to his
Sustainer just as Musa Liche went to Allah Ta'ala on Mt. Sinai and then returned.
By Allah, Rasulullah Lyckat. will certainly come back in a similar manner and
then completely uproot the hypocrites." 'Umar Meals was in a state of fervour,
with his sword unsheathed. No one had the courage to tell him that Rasulullah
.had indeed passed away صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
Abu Bakr ◌ُرَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْه was not present at the time when Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم had
passed away. When he heard this heart-rending news, he immediately mounted his
horse and came to Madinah. He dismounted at the entrance of Masjid-e-Nabawi
and advanced towards Rasulullah's af room very dejectedly. He asked
Aa'ishah رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا for permission and entered. Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم was on his bed
with all his wives sitting around him. When Abu Bakr Medthe entered, all of them,
except Aa'ishah Goals, covered their faces. Abu Bakr Meals removed the sheet
from Rasulullah's Leaf face, kissed his blessed forehead, and cried out saying:
وا نبياه واخليلاه وصفياه
"O the Prophet of Allah! O the friend of Allah! O the chosen one of Allah!"
Abu Bakr Medke said this three times.
He then said: "May my parents be sacrificed for you. By Allah, He will not
cause you to taste death twice. The death that was prescribed for you has come to
you." On saying this, he came out of the room and saw that 'Umar deaile, was in a
highly emotional state. Abu Bakr ◌ُرضى اللَّهُ عَنْه said:"Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم has passed
away. O 'Umar! Have you not heard these words of Allah Ta'ala:
(إِنَّكَ مَيِّتْ وَإِنَّهُمْ مَّيْتُوْنَ وَمَا جَعَلْنَا لِبَشَرٍ مِّنْ قَبْلِكَ الْخُلْهُ)

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'You shall certainly die and they shall certainly die (as well). We did not permit
eternity for any human since before."
The people then left the assembly of 'Umar Meals and congregated around Abu
. رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Bakr
Abu Bakr's Medkg sermon
Abu Bakr dealg went towards the mimbar, announced in a loud voice that
everyone should remain silent and be seated. When they were all seated, he praised
and glorified Allah Ta'ala and then delivered the following sermon:
"Whoever among you had been worshipping Allah, then surely Allah is alive
and does not die. Whoever among you had been worshipping Muhammad
:has certainly passed on. Allah Ta'ala says صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ then Muhammad, صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
‘Muhammad is but a Messenger. Messengers before him passed away. If he dies or
is killed, are you going to turn back on your heels? Whoever turns back on his heels
will never harm Allah in any way. Allah shall certainly reward the grateful ones.'
Allah Ta'ala addressed Muhammad Leaf : 'You shall certainly die and they
shall certainly die (as well).' Allah Ta'ala says: 'Everything is going to come to an
end except the essence of Allah. To Him belongs absolute authority and it is to Him
that you will be returned.' Allah Ta'ala says: 'Everything that is on earth is to die.
It is only the countenance of your Sustainer, the possessor of might and honour,
that will remain.' Allah Ta'ala says: 'Every soul shall taste death. You shall receive
your recompense in full on the day of resurrection.'
Surely Allah Ta'ala caused Muhammad Uckaf to live until such a time
that he established the religion of Allah, clearly explained the injunctions of Allah,
conveyed the message of Allah, and strove in the cause of Allah. Allah Ta'ala then
caused him to pass away in a manner that he left you on a clear path. Now
whoever goes astray and is destroyed will do so after the truth had been laid bare
to him. He whose Sustainer is Allah, let him know that Allah is alive and does not
die. He who had been worshipping Muhammad Laf and considering him to
be a deity, let him know that his deity has died. Fear Allah then, O people, hold on
firmly to your religion, and place your trust on your Sustainer. Surely the religion
of Allah shall remain and the promise of Allah will be fulfilled. Allah shall
certainly help the one who helps Him, and He shall give honour to His religion.
The Book of Allah is with us. It is a light and a cure. It was through this Book that
Allah guided Muhammad cia. It contains the lawful and unlawful matters
of Allah. By Allah, we are not bothered in the least by the one who attacks us. The
swords of Allah are unsheathed; we have not laid them down. We will wage Jihaad
against those who fight against us just as we had joined the Messenger of Allah
Luckaní in waging Jihaad. The opponents should therefore beware and blame
none but themselves."

578
صَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
No sooner had Abu Bakr dicale, delivered these words, the Sahaabah Asaules
came out of their stupor and the veils of absentmindedness were raised. They were
all convinced that Rasulullah Uclai had indeed passed away. It seemed as if
they had never heard these verses of the Qur-aan before. They all began reciting
these verses.
It is stated in one narration that when Abu Bakr Wealso received the news of
Rasulullah's Uckaf demise, he immediately left his house at Sunh and
proceeded towards Madinah. He approached crying, gasping for breath and
panting. He entered the room of Resulullah gateau in that very condition while
sending salutations to Rasulullah cka[ .. Despite this grief and sorrow, he was
fully conscious and did not lose his senses in the least.
He exposed the blessed face of Rasulullah Leaf and kissed his forehead.
He continued crying and continued saying: "May my parents be sacrificed for you.
You remained pure both in life and in death. By your demise, the chain of prophet-
hood and divine revelation have both come to an end. Both of these never came to
an end with the demise of any other Prophet. You are beyond description and in no
need of this crying. You are unique in that your being is such that others can take
consolation from your death. You benefited all of us to the extent that we all
became equal before you. Were it not for the fact that your death was by your
choice (Allah had given you the choice to choose between this world and the
hereafter) we would all have sacrificed our lives for your life. Were it not for the
fact that you had prohibited us from excessive crying, we would have exhausted all
the tears of our eyes. However, there are two things which we cannot remove and
wipe out: (1) the sorrow of being separated from you, (2) our bodies becoming thin
because of our sorrow. These are two things that are inseparable. O Allah! Convey
this condition of ours (to our Prophet). And O Muhammad Leaf ! Mention us
by your Sustainer. We hope that you will remember us."
"Had you not filled our hearts with peace and tranquillity by remaining in
your company, we would never have been able to bear the loss of this separation."
Abu Bakr Medthe, then left the room and addressed the people.
The remainder of Abu Bakr's dealg sermon
أَشْهِدُ أَنْ لاَّ إِلهَ إِلاَّ اللّهُ وَحْدَهُ وَصَدَقَ وَعْدَهُ وَنَصَرَ عَبْدَه وَغَلَبَ
الْأَحْزَابَ وَحْدَهُ فَلِلُّهِ الْحَمْدُ وَحْدَهُ واشهد ان محمدا عبده ورسوله
وخاتم انبياء ه واشهد ان الكتاب كما نزل وان الدين كما شرع وان
الحديث كما حدث وان القول كما قال وان الله هو الحق المبين

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"I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, He is one. He fulfilled
His promise, helped His servant, and vanquished the enemies single-handedly. So
all praise belongs to Allah alone."
"I testify that Muhammad Lyckaif is His servant, His Messenger and the seal of
His Prophets. I testify that the Book (Qur-aan) is exactly as it was revealed, that the
religion (Islam) is exactly as He propagated, that the Hadith is exactly as he
(Muhammad ckanf.) related, that the words are exactly as he (Muhammad
Laká __ ) said, and that Allah is the truth, the expounder of the truth."
"O Allah! Send salutations to Muhammad, Your servant, Messenger, Prophet,
beloved, entrusted one, the best of Your creation, the choicest of Your creation -
with the best salutations that You ever sent to any of Your creations. O Allah! Cause
Your salutations, Your protection, Your mercy, and Your blessings to descend on the
leader of the Messengers, the seal of Prophets, and the leader of the righteous,
Muhammad - the guide towards good, the leader of good, and the Messenger of
mercy. O Allah! Make him even closer (to You), make his evidence greater, honour
his position, and convey him to the Maqaam-e-Mahmud (the place of intercession)
regarding which all the past and future generations will desire. Enable us to benefit
from his Maqaam-e-Mahmud on the day of resurrection. Shower us with Your
mercy in this world and in the hereafter as compensation for him. Convey him to
the highest stages of Jannah. O Allah! Send salutations to Muhammad and the
family of Muhammad, and bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad just as
You sent salutations and blessings on Ibraaheem and the family of Ibraaheem,
surely You alone are praiseworthy, majestic."
ثم قال ايها الناس من كان يعبد محمدا فان محمدا قد مات ومن كان
یعبدالله فان الله حی لا یموت و ان الله قد تقدم لكم فى امره فلا
تدعوه جزعا وان الله تبارك و تعالى قد اختار لنبيه عليه السلام ما
عنده على ما عند كم وقبضه الی ثوابه وخلف فیكم كتابه وسنة
نبيه فمن اخذبهما عرف ومن فرق بينهما انكر. يّأيُّها الَّذِيْنَ امنوا
كُوْنُوْا قوّامين بالقسط ولا يشغلنكم الشيطان بموت نبيكم ولا

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صَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
يفتنكم عن دينكم وعاجلوا الشيطان بالخير وتعجزوه ولا
تستنظروه فيلحق بكم ويفتنكم
He then said: "O people! He who was worshipping Muhammad L,biff should
know that Muhammad Lyckanfi has passed away. He who was worshipping Allah
should know that Allah is alive, He does not die. Allah had already alluded to his
(Muhammad's ,skaff_) passing away. There is therefore no need to become
distressed. Allah Ta'ala chose His Prophet ,ckauf to be with Him than to be with
you and He took him to His honourable abode. He left behind His Book and the
Sunnah of His Prophet with you. He who holds on firmly to both of them has truly
recognised the truth. He who separates the two (e.g. by believing in one and not in
the other) has not recognised the truth. O you who are believers! Be the upholders of
justice. Do not allow shaytaan to keep you preoccupied with the death of your
Prophet. Do not allow him to move you away from your religion. Hasten towards
good before shaytaan can tempt you. Frustrate his efforts by hastening towards
good. Do not give him any time to come to you and tempt you."
When he completed his sermon, he said: "O 'Umar! Is it true what I heard about
you, that you were standing at the door of the Prophet Laf and saying: 'By
that being in whose control is the life of 'Umar, the Prophet of Allah has not died'?
Do you not remember what Rasulullah cheauf said on such and such day? And
that Allah Ta'ala said in His Book: 'You are to die and they are also to die."" 'Umar
deals said: "By Allah, it was as though I had never heard this verse before. This
was because of the calamity that afflicted us (i.e. because we were so overcome by
grief over the demise of Resulullah togattaauf). I testify that the Book is exactly as
it was revealed, the Hadith is as he related, and that Allah is alive, He does not die.
To Allah we belong and to Him is our return. Salutations of Allah Ta'ala on His
Messenger. We hope that we will be rewarded by Allah for this calamity."

Chapter 29
The Ansaar gather at Saqeefah Bani Saa'idah
After this tragic incident took place, Abu Bakr Meals learnt that the Ansaar
gathered at Saqeefah Bani Saa'idah to discuss the successor to Rasulullah
to present himself there as رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ The Muhaajireen asked Abu Bakr. صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
well. Abu Bakr Meals, 'Umar Meals and some of the Muhaajireen all proceeded
there.
Hadhrat Abu Bakr Meals and Hadhrat 'Umar Meals feared that the people
might become hasty and pledge their allegiance to just anyone which could become
a cause of disunity later on. When this matter was sorted out and Abu Bakr deals
was unanimously chosen as the caliph and successor to Resulullah togattaauf, the
Muslims began preparations for the enshrouding and burial of Rasulullah
Lukeauf ... This meeting at the Saqeefah took place on Monday evening. The tragic
news of Rasulullah's cia demise was announced around mid-day, after
which Abu Bakr Medle came from his house in Sunh and delivered his sermon. At
some time in the evening the gathering at Saqeefah took place.
The family of Rasulullah La were gathered in his room. When Abu
Bakr deals and 'Umar deals heard about the gathering of the Ansaar in the
Saqeefah, they proceeded there. They knew that since Resulullah stackauf has
passed away, the coming down of divine revelation has terminated, and Rasulullah
Ichauf had been continually warning of impending trials and tribulations. In
the present circumstances, no forms of rebellion, division and disunity should take
place which would completely turn the organisation of Islam upside down. This
would cause the 23 year effort of Rasulullah Leaf to be reduced to disarray,
and the body of Islam to become disunited and scattered. This would make it
difficult to bring it back together again.
Abu Bakr Meals went to the Saqeefah in order to resolve the matter of
succession. However, no one knew that Allah Ta'ala had already destined that he
581

582
صَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
would be the very one to succeed Rasulullah ckxf. He was forced into
accepting this position. He tried his utmost to delay this matter. But in his presence,
the people looked up to no one else. Abu Bakr Medkg, did not even imagine that he
would be appointed as the caliph of Islam. He went solely to prevent any disunity.
He did not know that this position of caliph will be placed on his head.
ذَلِكَ فَضْلُ اللهِ يُؤْتِيْهِ مَنْ يَّشَآءُ
"This is the virtue from Allah which He bestows on whomever He wills."
The burial arrangements
After pledging their allegiance to Abu Bakr Medkg, the people began the burial
arrangements. When they intended bathing Rasulullah Ucleafs, the question of
whether his clothes should be removed or not arose. The people were suddenly put
into a daze and they heard an unseen voice saying that the Messenger's gateauf
clothes should not be removed. He should be bathed in his clothes. He was thus
given a bath with his clothes on and then they were removed (for the shroud).
رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ and his two sons, Fadl رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ was giving the bath, 'Abbaas رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Ali
and Qathm ◌ُرَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْه ,were changing the position of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم , while
Usaamah ◌ُرَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْه and Shugraan ◌ُرَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْه were pouring the water.
After the bath, Resulullah gateau was enshrouded in three lengths of cloth
which did not contain a shirt and turban. The clothes in which he was bathed were
removed.
The question then arose as to where he should be buried. Abu Bakr deals
said: "I heard Rasulullah Uckauf saying that the Messenger is buried in the very
place where he passes away."
Rasulullah's Achauf bed was therefore moved from its spot and his grave
was dug there. However, there was a difference with regard to the type of grave
that should be dug. The Muhaajireen said that the type that is dug in Makkah
should be dug, viz. a standard grave with an indentation on one side where the
body is tucked in. The Ansaar said that the Madinah type of grave should be dug,
viz. a standard grave with a trench at the center of the bottom of the grave. Abu
'Ubaydah Meals and Abu Talhah Meals were knowledgeable in digging each of
these graves respectively. It was therefore decided to call both of them. The one
who reaches first will dig the type of grave that he is an expert at. Abu Talhah
del reached first and so a trench type of grave was dug.

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Chapter 29
The Janaazah Salaah
When they completed the burial arrangements on Monday, the blessed body of
Rasulullah Uckaf was placed in front of his grave. Group after group would
come into the room and offer the Janaazah Salaah individually. No one was the
Imaam for this Salaah. Each person came, offered his Salaah and left.
The people asked Abu Bakr Meals as to whether the Janaazah Salaah for
Rasulullah Ucleafs should be read. He replied in the affirmative. They asked him
the procedure. He said that one group at a time should go into the room, say the
Takbeer (Allah is the greatest), and after sending Durood and reciting the
prescribed dua, he should return. Everyone should offer the Salaah in this way.
Abu Bakr Meals and 'Umar deals also entered the room of Rasulullah
and read صَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ with a group, stood before the body of Rasulullah صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
the following:
السلام عليك أيها النبي ورحمة الله اللُّهم إنا نشهد أنه قد بلغ ما
أنزل إلیه ونصح لأمته وجاهد فی سبیل الله حتى أعز الله دینه
وتمت كلمته فاجعلنا يا إلهنا ممن يتبع القول الذى أنزل معه واجمع
بيننا وبينه حتى يعرفنا ونعرفه فإنه كان بالمؤمنين رؤفا رحيما لا
نبتغی بالإيمان بدلا ولا نشتری به ثمنا
"Peace and mercy of Allah be on you O Prophet! O Allah! We testify that he
conveyed whatever was revealed to him. He advised his followers and fought in the
cause of Allah until Allah elevated His religion and fulfilled His promise. O Allah!
Make us among those who follow the revelation that was sent to him and join us
with him so that we may recognize each other. Surely he was kind and merciful to
the believers. We do not desire anything in exchange for Imaan and we will not sell
it for any price."
The people who were present said Aameen to this dua. When the men completed,
the women went in. They were then followed by the children.
When Rasulullah Uckaf was on his death bed, he summoned his family
members. They asked: "O Messenger of Allah! Who should perform your Janaazah
Salaah?" He replied: "When you are over with my burial arrangements, you should
all leave my room for a little while. Jibraa'eel Liche will be the first one to offer
the Janaazah Salaah. He will be followed by Mikaa'eel ◌ُعَلَيْهِالسَّلام ,Israafeel ◌ُعَلَيْهِ السَّلَام, the
angel of death, and then the remaining angels. Thereafter, you should all come in
groups and send durood to me."

584
صَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
Allah Ta'ala says the following with regard to Rasulullah Lai:
(إِنَّ اللّهَ وَمَلْبِكَتَةً يُصَلُّوْنَ عَلَى النَّبِ يَاَيُّهَا الَّذِيْنَ امَنُوا صَلُّوْا عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلِّمُوْا تَسْلِيْمًا:
"Surely Allah and His angels send salutations on the Messenger. O you who believe!
Send salutations and peace on him."
This verse commands each believer to send individual Durood to him. Just as it was
incumbent to send Durood without any Imaam and without any congregation
when he was alive, so too after his demise, Durood is to be sent without any Imaam
and without any congregation.
30 000 people offered the Janaazah Salaah for Resulullah Agace auf.
Burial
Rasulullah Uckauf passed away on a Monday afternoon. It was the same time as
when he had emigrated from Makkah and entered Madinah. The majority of
scholars are of the opinion that he was buried on Wednesday. Others are of the
opinion that he was buried on Tuesday.
, رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ and Qasam رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ and his two sons, Fadl رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Abbaas', رَضِّ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Ali
lowered Rasulullah schaf into his grave. When they completed the burial, the
grave was heaped in the shape of a camel's hump. Water was then sprinkled on it.
After completing the burial, the Sahaabah Acale returned to their homes, sad
and dejected. They continued reciting:
إِنَّا للهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُوْنَ
"To Allah we belong and to Him is our return."

Chapter 30
Sageefah Bani Saa'idah and the pledge of allegiance
Rasulullah Uckaf departed from the fleeting world to the eternal life of the
hereafter on a Monday afternoon. On hearing this news, the Sahaabah peaks were
left in a stupor. Some of them felt that he had not died as yet. This was based on
their extreme love for him and not due to misunderstanding. On hearing this news,
Abu Bakr Medkg came very sadly and dejectedly into Madinah and consoled the
.رَضِىَ اللهُ عَنْهُم Sahaabah
On that evening, someone came and informed Abu Bakr deals that the
Ansaar had gathered in the Saqeefah Bani Saa'idah and that they want to pledge
their allegiance to Sa'd ibn Abi 'Ubaadah Meals. Some Ansaar were also suggesting
that one leader should be from them and another from the Quraysh. Some of the
Ansaar felt that they were eligible for the caliphate because they had helped the
religion, gave refuge to Rasulullah Leaf and joined him in waging Jihaad
against the enemies of Allah Ta'ala. Some of the other Ansaar objected to this. The
discussions in this regard continued. This news gradually reached Abu Bakr deals
and 'Umar Meals. They both went to Saqeefah Bani Saa'idah together with Abu
'Ubaydah ibnul-Jarrah Medkg in order to control the situation just in case problems
break out. They met 'Aasim ibn 'Adiyy and 'Uwaym ibn Saa'idah on the way.
These two tried to stop them from proceeding, but they continued and rushed to
where the Ansaar were meeting. Mutual discussions then ensued.
When they reached the Saqeefah Bani Saa'idah, Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah deakse was
already present. He was sitting down with a blanket around him. He was ill but the
Ansaar brought him to the meeting so that they could appoint him as the leader.
585

586
صَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
The speech of Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah deals
Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah Medhe stood up and after praising and glorifying Allah Ta'ala,
he delivered the following speech:
اما بعد! فنحن الانصار وكتيبة الاسلام وانتم يا معشر قريش رهط
بیننا وقد دفت الینا دافة من قومكم فاذا هم یریدون ان یغصبونا
الامر
"We are the Ansaar - the helpers of Islam and the army of Islam. And you, Quraysh,
are a small group among us (i.e. we are in the majority while you are in the
minority). A small group of your people came and sought refuge with us. Now they
want to snatch away our right to the caliphate."
Another narration states that Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah Medulss said the following in
his speech:
"O group of Ansaar! You surpassed others (in embracing Islam) and enjoy a virtue
that no other Arabs enjoy. Muhammad Lyckauf lived among his own people for
over 10 years, inviting them, but only a few believed in him. They were so few that
they were unable to defend him, to give honour to his religion nor to stop the
oppression of an enemy. When Allah decided to give you virtue, He conveyed the
means of honour to you and blessed you with Imaan in Him and in His Messenger
and his صَلَ اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ He gave you the ability to defend His Messenger. صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
Companions, and to wage Jihaad against his enemies. You were the firmest against
his enemies until the Arabs submitted to the order of Allah Ta'ala willingly and
unwillingly. Even those who lived far away were vanquished and submitted before
him. The Arabs became obedient to His Messenger Lubauf through your swords.
Allah Ta'ala then caused him to leave this world in a state that he was pleased and
delighted with you. You should take up this position (of caliphate) because it is your
right and no one else's."
Those who were present liked this speech tremendously and they all expressed
their agreement. Discussions in this regard ensued and the Muhaajireen raised their
objection by saying: "We are the first Companions of Rasulullah caf. We
were the first ones to believe in him and we belong to his tribe. We emigrated with
him, leaving behind our families, relatives, homeland and everything else and came
here." The Ansaar said: "We should rather have two leaders, one from the
Muhaajireen and one from the Ansaar. Both of them should take up the
responsibility of the caliphate and work together for the general good." On hearing

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Chapter 30
this, Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah deals said: "This would entail the first weakness (in
Islam)."
'Umar Meals wanted to say something but Abu Bakr Weaks asked him to
remain silent. Since he did not want to displease Abu Bakr deals, he sat down.
Abu Bakr Meals then delivered the following speech:
Abu Bakr's ◌ُرَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْه speech
Abu Bakr deals stood up, and after praising and glorifying Allah Ta'ala, delivered
the following speech:
"Allah sent a Messenger among us who would watch over the ummah so that they
may worship Allah alone. Previously, they used to worship many idols made of rock
and wood. It was difficult for the Arabs to leave the religion of their forefathers.
Allah thus gave special inspiration to the early emigrants (Muhaajireen) from his
people to believe him, to support him, to remain patient over the severe hardships
that were imposed by his people, and their rejection of him. All the people were
against him and his supporters. Despite their small number, they were not
intimidated by their opponents and they did not abandon him. So they were the first
people on earth to worship Allah and to believe in Allah and the Messenger. They
are the Messenger's associates and family. They are more eligible for this caliphate
than others. None but a wrongdoer can dispute with them in this matter. As for you,
O Ansaar! None can deny your virtue in religion nor your early acceptance of Islam.
Allah was pleased with you as the helpers of His religion and His Messenger, and
He promulgated the emigration towards you. After the early emigrants, you enjoy
the highest status. We are therefore the leaders while you are the ministers. Your
counsel will be sought and no matter will be decided without consulting with you."
Another narration states that Abu Bakr Meals gave the following reply to the
Ansaar:
ما ذكرتم من خير فانتم اهل وما تعرف العرب هذا الامر الا لهذا
الحی من قریش هم اوسط العرب نسبا ودارا
"Your merits which you enumerated are certainly found in you. However, the
Arabs will not recognise the caliphate for anyone but the Quraysh because they are
considered to be the most superior in their lineage and their place of residence
(Makkah)."
What Abu Bakr Meals meant by this was that a caliph should be from a
people whose leadership and genealogical honour are widely accepted so that

588
صَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
people may unanimously accept this leadership and that they do not consider it
beneath them to follow and obey him. As long as any type of honour, virtue and
merit is not accepted, people are not ready for any type of obedience. Instead, they
consider him to be low and contemptible. Abu Bakr deals wanted to show to them
that the virtue and merit of the Quraysh was accepted by all the Arabs. They do
not look up to the Aus and Khazraj with any real honour and respect. Therefore, if
anyone from the Ansaar was appointed as the leader, the Arab tribes will not be
prepared to follow and obey him. The general masses of the country will not
unanimously accept his leadership. The most important aspect concerning the
caliphate and leadership is that the people must accept the leader, and they must be
united and unanimous about his leadership.
Another narration states that Abu Bakr Medle, addressed the Ansaar saying:
يا معشر الانصارانا والله ما ننكر فضلكم ولا بلائكم فى
الاسلام ولا حقكم الواجب علينا ولكن قد عرفتم ان هذا الحى
من قريش بمنزلة من العرب فليس بها غيرهم وان العرب لن تجتمع
الا على رجل منهم فنحن الامراء وانتم الوزراء فاتقوا الله ولا
تصدعوا الاسلام ولا تكونوا اول من احدث فى الاسلام الا وقد
رضیت لكم احد هذين الرجلین لی. ای لعمر ولا بی عبيدة فايهما
بايعتم فهو لكم ثقة
"O group of Ansaar! I take an oath by Allah that we do not deny your virtue and
your sacrifices in Islam, nor your incumbent right over us. But you know that the
Quraysh hold a certain position among the Arabs which is not shared by anyone
else. The Arabs will never rally around anyone but someone from them. We shall
therefore be the leaders and you will be the ministers. Fear Allah, then, and do not
be the first ones to split Islam and do not be the first ones to introduce innovations
in Islam. It is my opinion that one of these two men are appropriate for the
leadership, 'Umar and Abu 'Ubaydah. Which ever of the two you pledge allegiance
to will be worthy of your trust and confidence."
After this speech of Abu Bakr Meals, Khabbaab ibnul-Munzir ibn Jamooh deals
stood up and said that it would be appropriate to appoint one leader from the
Ansaar and one from the Muhaajireen. Abu Bakr deals replied that Rasulullah
Jugado said that the leaders should be from the Quraysh.

589
Chapter 30
Abu Bakr ◌ُرَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْه replied:
"It is not permissible for the Muslims to have two leaders. If this were to happen,
their orders and commands would differ, the unity of the Muslims will be scattered
and they will differ with each other. When this happens, the Sunnah will be
abandoned, innovations will come to the fore, and rebellion will increase. There is
no good for anyone in this. This matter of caliphate will remain among the Quraysh
as long as they obey Allah and they remain steadfast on His commands. This
Hadith has reached you or you have heard it from Rasulullah Lyckaill .: 'Do not
differ, or else you will become cowardly and your power will dissolve. Remain
patient for Allah is with the patient ones.' So we shall be the leaders and you the
ministers. You are our brothers in Islam and our helpers and supporters in it."
'Umar Meals said: "How sad! Can there be two swords in one sheath !? Can a
woman have two husbands !? " In other words, one country cannot have two rulers.
'Umar's Medby reply was a rational reply while that of Abu Bakr Meals was a
traditional reply - he quoted a clear statement of Rasulullah Leafs. Basheer
ibn Sa'd Ansaari said: "I have also heard this Hadith from Resulullah Jugateauf."
Other Ansaar and Muhaajireen also affirmed this Hadith. Khabbaab ibnul-Mundhir
Meals and other Ansaar who were persistent on having a caliph from the Ansaar
also changed their opinions after hearing this Hadith. The noise and clamour with
regard to the matter of caliphate all subsided and everyone remained silent.
Zaid ibn Saabit ◌ُرضي اللَّهُ عَنْه ,the scribe of Rasulullah ◌َصَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم , said: "Rasulullah
Ustal. was from the Muhaajireen. His caliph should therefore be from the
Muhaajireen. Just as we had been the helpers and supporters of Rasulullah
صَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ we shall remain the helpers and supporters of Rasulullah's, صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ
deputy." He then held the hand of Abu Bakr Meals and said: "This is your caliph,
pledge allegiance to him."
Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah's meals acknowledgement
Abu Bakr Meals and 'Umar Meals went to (the Saqeefah Bani Saa'idah) and spoke
to the Ansaar. Abu Bakr Medis addressed them and enumerated all the virtues and
merits of the Ansaar. He said to them: 'You know that Rasulullah Leaf said
that if the people were to choose to travel through a particular valley while the
Ansaar chose another valley, he would travel through the valley chosen by the
Ansaar. And you know very well, O Sa'd, that on one occasion you were sitting in
the assembly of Rasulullah Uckaf when he said: 'The Quraysh should be in
charge of this matter of caliphate. The good among them follow the good people
while the evil ones among them follow the evil people.' Sa'd said to him: 'You have
spoken the truth. We are the ministers while you are the leaders."

590
صَلَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Seeratul Mustafa
This narration explicitly states that Abu Bakr Meals addressed Sa'd ibn
'Ubaadah Meals by taking an oath in the name of Allah Ta'ala that he was present
when Rasulullah Uckaf said that the Quraysh should be in charge of this
matter. Sa'd deal replied by saying: "You have spoken the truth." It is for this
reason that Ibn Katheer aldus has a special chapter titled: "Sa'd ibn 'Ubaadah's
testimony to the authenticity of what Abu Bakr Medke said at the meeting in the
Saqeefah."
'Abdullah ibn Mas'ood deals narrates that when the Ansaar proposed that
there should be one leader from them and one from the Muhaajireen, 'Umar deale
said: "O group of Ansaar! You know that Rasulullah Leaf ordered that Abu
Bakr deals should lead the people in Salaah. Now who among you would like to
go ahead of Abu Bakr &dl?" The Ansaar replied: "We seek refuge in Allah from
trying to go ahead of Abu Bakr české."
What he meant by this is that Rasulullah Leaf specifically emphasised
and insisted that Abu Bakr Medkg should lead the people in Salaah and to take his
place. This was a clear proof that Rasulullah leaf considered Abu Bakr deals
to be the most preferable for nomination as Khalifah.
A Hadith of Shamaa'il Tirmizi states that when the Ansaar suggested that
there should be one leader from them and one from the Muhaajireen, 'Umar deals
enumerated three qualities of Abu Bakr Meals and asked the assembly if anyone
else possessed these three qualities:
. Allah Ta'ala referred to Abu Bakr Meals as one of the two (Abu Bakr kedikse
(ثانى اثنين إذ هما فى الغار) .who were in the cave (صَلَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ and Rasulullah
. Allah Ta'ala referred to Abu Bakr Maks as being the close companion of
(إذ يقول لصاحبه لا تحزن). صَلَّاللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Rasulullah
. Allah Ta'ala referred to His being with them (Rasulullah La and Abu
(إن الله معنا). (رَضِ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Bakr
It should be borne in mind that Allah's companionship and knowledge is with
everyone and encompasses everyone. Yet, He specifically mentions His presence in
the above verse.
These three qualities of Abu Bakr Medulss are established from the Qur-aan.
This demonstrates his pre-eminence and that he alone is eligible for the caliphate.
Abu Bakr Meals then addressed the assembly and said to the people: "'Umar
and Abu 'Ubaydah are both present here. Choose whichever of the two you want
as your leader." 'Umar Meals and Abu 'Ubaydah deaths both said: "We take an
oath by Allah that it is impossible for us to take the reigns of caliphate in your