The Passing of the Prophet (PBUH) and the Beginning of the Caliphate

The passing of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was one of the most significant and emotional moments in the history of Islam. It marked the end of divine revelation and the beginning of a new era where the Muslim community had to continue without direct guidance from their beloved leader. Despite the sorrow, the transition to the Caliphate was a testament to the strong foundation the Prophet (PBUH) had laid for Islam.

Passing of the Prophet Muhammad ( PBUH )

The Prophet’s Final Days

In the year 632 CE, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) fell seriously ill. His health began to decline after he returned from his Farewell Pilgrimage, where he had delivered his final sermon, reminding the Muslims of their responsibilities and the essence of Islamic teachings.

During his illness, the Prophet (PBUH) moved to the house of his beloved wife, Aisha (RA), where he spent his final days. Despite his weakness, he continued to lead prayers until he could no longer stand. He instructed Abu Bakr (RA) to lead the congregation, subtly indicating his preference for Abu Bakr (RA) as his successor.

On 12th Rabi’ al-Awwal, in the 11th year of Hijra (June 8, 632 CE), Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away in the arms of Aisha (RA). The entire city of Madinah was engulfed in grief, as the news spread among the companions and the Muslim community.

The Muslim Community in Shock

The death of the Prophet (PBUH) was devastating. Many companions found it difficult to accept. Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), out of immense sorrow, drew his sword and declared that anyone who said the Prophet (PBUH) had died would be punished. He could not believe that their beloved leader was no more.

At this moment, Abu Bakr (RA) entered the Prophet’s (PBUH) room, kissed his forehead, and confirmed his passing. He then went out to the people and recited a powerful verse from the Qur’an:

"Muhammad is not but a messenger. [Other] messengers have passed away before him. So if he was to die or be killed, would you turn back on your heels?" (Qur’an 3:144)

These words calmed the crowd and brought them back to reality.

The Selection of the First Caliph

After the Prophet’s (PBUH) passing, a crucial question arose—who would lead the Muslim Ummah? The leadership needed to be established quickly to ensure stability. The Ansar (local Muslims of Madinah) and the Muhajirun (migrants from Makkah) gathered at Saqifah Banu Sa’ida to discuss the matter.

The Ansar initially proposed a leader from among themselves, but the Muhajirun, including Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA), emphasized that leadership should be from the Quraysh, as was the tradition. Abu Bakr (RA) then suggested Umar (RA) or Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah (RA) as suitable leaders. However, Umar (RA), recognizing Abu Bakr’s (RA) wisdom and close companionship with the Prophet (PBUH), took his hand and pledged allegiance to him, followed by the rest of the companions.

Thus, Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA) became the first Caliph of Islam, beginning the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs.

The Burial of the Prophet (PBUH)

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was buried in the room of Aisha (RA), the very place where he passed away. His burial was done in the simplest manner, following the teachings he had preached—humility and simplicity. His companions performed the funeral prayer in small groups, as there was no formal leader to lead a single congregational prayer.

The Beginning of the Caliphate

Abu Bakr (RA) faced immense challenges as the new leader of the Muslim Ummah. Many Arab tribes saw the Prophet’s (PBUH) passing as an opportunity to break away from Islam. False prophets emerged, and some groups refused to pay Zakat (charity tax).

Despite these challenges, Abu Bakr (RA) stood firm. His leadership ensured that Islam remained united and strong. Under his rule, he launched the Ridda Wars (Wars of Apostasy), successfully bringing rebellious tribes back into the fold of Islam.

The Legacy of the Prophet (PBUH)

Even though the Prophet (PBUH) was no longer physically present, his teachings, the Qur’an, and Sunnah, remained as a guiding light for all Muslims. The structure he had built, based on justice, equality, and faith in Allah, allowed Islam to continue flourishing under the leadership of the Caliphs.

His passing was not the end—it was the beginning of an era where his followers carried forward his mission, spreading Islam across the world.

Related Topics for Further Study

To understand the full journey of Islam, explore these significant events:

• The History of Islam – A complete timeline of Islamic history.

• The Battles of Islam – Important wars fought for the survival and expansion of Islam.

• The Early Teachings and Challenges of Islam – How the message of Islam was spread and the obstacles faced.

• The Migration to Madinah – A turning point in Islamic history that led to the establishment of the first Islamic state.

• The Conquest of Mecca – The final and peaceful takeover of Makkah by the Muslims.

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Conclusion

The passing of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a heartbreaking moment, but it marked the beginning of a strong leadership system under the Caliphs. The selection of Abu Bakr (RA) as the first Caliph ensured the stability and unity of the Muslim community, setting the foundation for the expansion of Islam.

His life, teachings, and legacy continue to inspire millions, reminding us of the responsibility we carry as Muslims—to uphold truth, justice, and faith in Allah.