"The Prophet (ﷺ) became sick and when his disease became aggravated, he said, "Tell Abu Bakr to leadthe prayer." `Aisha said, "He is a softhearted man and would not be able to lead the prayer in yourplace." The Prophet (ﷺ) said again, "Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer." She repeated the samereply but he said, "Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer. You are the companions of Joseph." Sothe messenger went to Abu Bakr (with that order) and he led the people in prayer in the lifetime of theProphet.