When Allâh's Messenger (ﷺ) fell sick with his fatal illness and when the time of As-Salât (the prayer) became due and Adhân was pronounced, he said, "Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in (prayer)." He was told that Bakr was a soft-hearted man and would not be able to lead the (prayer) in his place. The Prophet (ﷺ) gave the same order again but he was given the same reply. He gave the order for the third time and said, "You (women) are the companions of Yûsuf (Joseph). Tell Abu Bakr to lead the Salât (prayer)." So Abu Bakr came out to lead the (prayer). In the meantime the condition of the Prophet (ﷺ) improved a bit and he came out with the help of two men one on each side. As if I was observing his legs dragging on the ground owing to the disease. Abu Bakr wanted to retreat but the Prophet (ﷺ) beckoned him to. remain at his place and the Prophet (ﷺ) was brought till he sat beside Abu Bakr. The Prophet (ﷺ) was praying and Bakr was following him, and the people were following Abu Bakr in that (prayer). In another (Mu'awiya) said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) was sitting on the left side of Abu Bakr who was praying while standing." [1:633-O.B.]