Caliph·Rashidun
Abu Bakr Becomes First Caliph
- Date
- June 632 CE12 Rabi' al-Awwal 11 AH1,394 years ago
- Place
- Medina
- People
- Abu Bakr, Umar ibn al-Khattab, Ali ibn Abi Talib
After the Prophet's death, leaders of the Helpers (Ansar) and the Emigrants (Muhajirun) met at the Saqifah of Banu Sa'idah in Medina. They chose Abu Bakr, a close companion of the Prophet, to lead the community. Umar ibn al-Khattab gave him the first pledge, and a public pledge followed the next day. Some companions, including Ali and members of Banu Hashim, delayed their pledge. The title caliph means successor or deputy.
Why it matters
The choice set the pattern for the early caliphs and began the debate over leadership that later divided the Muslim community.