Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (RA), the foremost Companion of the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him), the first amongst the adult men who embraced Islam at the hands of the Last Messenger of Allah (PBUH), and the first Caliph of Islam who took over the reins after the demise of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), is regarded the most virtuous figure in the history of Islam and amongst all the Companions of the Prophet (RA). 
    A Verse from the Holy Quran mentions him, without naming Abu Bakr (RA): He was with the Prophet (PBUH) when he left Makkah to migrate to Madinah, and Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) took him to the Cave of Thawr, so to hide him from the infidels who were constantly chasing them with a nefarious motive to kill them. In the cave, Hazrat Abu Bakr was fearful of the safety of the Prophet (PBUH) and here the Revelation from God descended, according to which, the Prophet told Abu Bakr: “Don’t be sad, Allah is with both of us.” (Surah Al-Tauba, Verse 40)
    This Verse shows the biggest status and stature of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) who was greatly revered for his selfless friendship and sacrifice for the Prophet (PBUH), and for his patience, wisdom, sagacity, integrity, unwavering faith and support, height of honesty, selfless devotion, matchless truthfulness and exceptional leadership. These qualities actually shaped the very foundation of Islam.
Early Life and Embracing Islam
Abu Bakr’s actual name was Abdullah son of Abu Quhafah Usman. He was born to a noble family of Quraish; his tribe’s name was Al Taymi. He got an upright environment to grow. At the age of 18, he joined the family’s cloth business and earned good reputation. He was so honest, upright, straightforward and truthful that he earned the title of “Siddique” from none else but the Prophet (PBUH) himself. The people of Makkah regarded him as the man of utmost integrity and the man of strongest character. He was close friend of Muhammad much before the announcement of Islam. When the Prophet (PBUH) received his first Revelation as the Messenger of Allah, Abu Bakr was the first amongst adult men to accept and embrace Islam, becoming the Prophet’s foremost and loyal Companion. 
    At that time in Makkah, the small Muslim community was subjected to hardships and intense oppression. He patiently endured the coercive tactics and oppressive treatment by the infidel leadership of Makkah together with the Prophet (PBUH); his immediate acceptance of Islam was an outcome of the great courage and conviction that set the example for others to follow the Prophet’s message wholeheartedly.
Faith and Dedication
It was Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique’s firm and unshakable faith and generosity that made him one of the Prophet’s closest Companions and confidants. He dedicated his whole life for Allah and his Messenger by offering his time, wealth and strengths. His love for the Prophet and his untiring commitment to the Islamic principles set an exceptional example for all Muslims throughout history. 
Compilation of the Quran
The compilation and preservation of the Quran is one of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique’s noteworthy contributions. He recognized the need to compile the revelations into a unified book. He appointed a committee headed by Zaid bin Sabit to compile the Verses. This monumental task resulted in the compilation of Quran in a standardized form, ensuring the preservation of Divine message for generations to come. Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) was a paramount of guidance and wisdom for the early Muslim community due to his profound understanding of the Quran and adherence to its teachings.
Migration to Madina
During the migration from Makkah to Madina, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) accompanied the Prophet (PBUH). This historic event led to the establishment of the first Muslim state, with Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique playing an eminent role. His sacrifices during the migration in terms of financial aid and provision of valuable guidance to the early Muslims would always be remembered.
Caliphate and Challenges
Following the passing away of the Prophet (PBUH), Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) was chosen as the First Caliph. He faced numerous challenges including internal dissensions and external threats like battles against the apostate tribes and strategic expeditions to defend the state. His wise leadership and timely decision making helped in stabilizing the Muslim community and preserving their unity. The conquests during his caliphate laid the groundwork for the subsequent expansion of Islam. Being the First Caliph, his tenure was marked by exceptional statesmanship and commitment to justice. His tenure lasted for two years, three months and 11 days.
Leadership and Legacy
In the critical times, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) played a key role in consolidating the Muslim community, maintaining their unity and spreading the message beyond the Arabian Peninsula. His exemplary life of piousness, humility, and sacrifice continues to inspire Muslims across generations. His leadership qualities and commitment to justice serves as a timeless lesson in governance and ethical leadership for all the Muslims.
Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) in the Eyes of Iqbal
Allama Iqbal viewed Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) as the best Companion of the Prophet (PBUH) because of his loyalty, outstanding leadership, wisdom and devotion to the principles of Islam. In his poem “Siddique”, he regarded Abu Bakr as a true follower who stood by the Prophet through all difficult times and a prime example of extraordinary selflessness and dedication to the cause of Islam. The companionship between Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) and the Prophet (PBUH) exemplified the bond of brotherhood and mutual respect. 
    Iqbal appreciated Abu Bakr’s skills in governance and capability to maintain the unity of Muslim community in a critical time. According to Iqbal, Abu Bakr’s leadership, foresight, piety, humility, fairness and generosity had actually established the strong foundation of state, and played a key role in its successes. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique’s contributions to Islam are endless. He was one of the guards of the Prophet in the Battle of Badr. Even in the Battle of Uhud, he was amongst those few who never let the Prophet (PBUH) be alone. In many battles he successfully led the Muslims. Abu Bakr (RA) set many slaves free including Bilal bin Ribah (RA) who happened to be one of the most loyal and trusted Companions of the Prophet (PBUH).