Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaybah

Hazrat Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrates that during the illness of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) which led to his passing, Hazrat Bilal came to inform him about the prayer. The Prophet said, "Tell Abu Bakr to lead the prayer." We said, "O Messenger of Allah! Abu Bakr is a soft-hearted and tender-hearted man; if he stands in your place, he will not be able to bear it and will start weeping. It would be better if you instruct Umar to lead the prayer." The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer. You are like the women who were present with Yusuf." So Abu Bakr was sent the message, and he led the people in prayer. After a while, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) felt some relief in his blessed body, so he went for the prayer supported by two men. At that time, both of his feet were dragging on the ground. When Abu Bakr sensed the arrival of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), he began to step back. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) gestured to him to remain in his place. Hazrat Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrates that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) sat beside Abu Bakr, Abu Bakr followed the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and the people followed Abu Bakr.