What is the nature of Abu Bakrra? This is not the occasion for a detailed discussion and discourse on this subject, as much time would be required for such an exposition. To be brief, I shall narrate an incident. When the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, made his claim to prophethood, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq, may Allah be pleased with him, had travelled to Syria. On his return, he was still en route when he happened to meet someone. Hazrat Abu Bakrra inquired of him as to the circumstances in Mecca and asked him if there was any current news. It is commonly observed that when a person returns from a journey, they will ask their fellow countrymen about the circumstances of their homeland. The individual responded: ‘What is new is that your friend (Muhammadsa) has made a claim to prophethood.’ As soon as Hazrat Abu Bakrra heard this, he responded: ‘If he has made such a claim, then he is truthful indeed.’ This shows the degree to which Hazrat Abu Bakrra thought well of the Holy Prophetsa. He felt no need to ask for a miracle. In actuality, only such a one who is uninformed of a claimant’s circumstances, or who is unrelated to them, will ask to be shown a miracle for their heart’s satisfaction. But as for the one who has no objection, what need has he for a miracle? In short, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra affirmed his belief in the Holy Prophetsa even before he had returned home. When he arrived in Mecca, he presented himself before the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and inquired: ‘Have you claimed to be a Prophet?’ The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: ‘Yes, this is correct.’ At this, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra said: ‘Bear witness that I am the first of those who have affirmed your truthfulness.’ However, these were not mere words; in fact, Hazrat Abu Bakrra demonstrated that his actions accorded with his words. This was to such an extent that he fulfilled his oath until his very last breath, and did not leave the Holy Prophetsa even after death.
(Malfuzat [English], Vol. 2, pp. 87-88)
