22/09/2024
An Example of the Relationship Between the Companions
There was a slight altercation between Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنهما). Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) became upset and walked away. Hazrat Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) felt remorse and, fearing that the matter might escalate, followed Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه), continuously saying, "Umar, please forgive me." Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) did not turn back. Hazrat Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه), regretful, kept following him apologetically. Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) reached home, entered, and shut the door behind him.
Hazrat Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) then went to the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم). The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) saw him coming from afar, noticed that his face had changed color, and said, "Look, your companion seems to be in distress."
Hazrat Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) came closer and sat down quietly. A few moments later, Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه), having realized his mistake, also left his house and headed towards the Prophet's (صلى الله عليه وسلم) gathering. He greeted the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and sat down beside him. He explained how he had ignored Abu Bakr's apology and not accepted it.
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) became angry. When Hazrat Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) saw the signs of anger on the Prophet's (صلى الله عليه وسلم) face, he said, "يا رسول الله, it was my fault; it was my mistake."
Thus, he began defending Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه). The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, "Will you leave my companion alone for my sake? Will you leave my companion alone for my sake? I said, 'O people, I am Allah's Messenger to all of you.' You responded by saying, 'You are lying,' while Abu Bakr said, 'You are telling the truth.'" (Bukhari)
An Islamic society can be established on the basis of this brotherhood, compassion, and humility, where the one at fault seeks forgiveness without hesitation, and the one with the right forgives for the sake of Allah's pleasure.
