How did Abu Bakr die? What the historical reports tell us

The death of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA), the first Caliph of Islam, is described in several historical reports, with some differences over what caused his final illness.

The most detailed account says that Abu Bakr developed a severe fever after bathing on a particularly cold day. He remained ill for about 15 days, during which he was unable to leave his home to lead the prayers. Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) led the people in prayer in his place.

A report attributed to Aisha (RA), preserved by al-Hakim in al-Mustadrak, states that Abu Bakr’s illness began after he bathed on a cold day and that he subsequently suffered a fever for 15 nights.

There is also another historical report that attributes his death to poisoning. According to accounts cited by al-Tabari and Ibn Sa’d, Abu Bakr and the physician al-Harith ibn Kalada ate food that was said to have been poisoned, with the poison allegedly taking effect about a year later.

ABU BAKR’S FINAL ILLNESS

As his illness became more serious, Abu Bakr remained at home and Umar led the congregational prayers.

During his final illness, Abu Bakr also spoke with Aisha about the death and burial of the Prophet Muhammad.

In an authentic narration recorded by al-Bukhari, Abu Bakr asked Aisha how the Prophet had been shrouded. She told him that he had been shrouded in three white pieces of cloth, without a shirt or turban.

He then asked her on which day the Prophet had died. When she told him that it was Monday, he asked what day it was. On learning that it was also Monday, Abu Bakr expressed hope that he would die that day.

He then instructed that the garment he was wearing during his illness be washed and used as part of his shroud, together with two other pieces of cloth.

His words reflected his closeness to the Prophet and his desire to follow the Prophet’s example even in death.

ABU BAKR PREPARES FOR HIS DEATH

As Abu Bakr’s illness progressed, he began making arrangements for what would happen after his death.

One of his most important decisions was the appointment of Umar ibn al-Khattab as his successor. Abu Bakr consulted leading Companions before making the decision and instructed Uthman ibn Affan (RA) to write the document appointing Umar.

The decision was not without concern among some Muslims, who questioned whether Umar’s stern character made him suitable to lead them. Abu Bakr nevertheless defended his choice.

His decision was significant because it sought to ensure a clear succession and avoid a leadership dispute after his death.

HIS FINAL HOURS

Abu Bakr’s final moments were marked by concern for his faith, his community and the legacy of the Prophet.

Aisha reported that Abu Bakr died on Monday night, after an illness lasting about 15 days. The same report states that he was 63 years old.

The commonly given date of his death is 22 Jumada al-Akhirah, 13 AH, corresponding to August 634 CE.

Abu Bakr had served as Caliph for just over two years.

Before his death, he also remained conscious of his responsibility over public property. He instructed Aisha to return what remained of the belongings entrusted to him from the Muslims’ treasury.

ABU BAKR IS BURIED BESIDE THE PROPHET

After Abu Bakr died, Umar ibn al-Khattab led the funeral prayer.

He was then buried beside the Prophet Muhammad, in the room of Aisha, where the Prophet himself had been buried.

His burial place reflected the extraordinary relationship between the two men. Abu Bakr had been the Prophet’s closest companion during some of the most difficult years of the early Muslim community and had been at his side during the Prophet’s final illness.

The authentic reports about Abu Bakr’s final illness therefore give us a clear picture of a man who knew that death was approaching and spent his final days preparing for it.