How many years did the Caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) last?

The Caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA), the first Rightly Guided Caliph of Islam, lasted for approximately two years, from 11 Hijri to 13 Hijri (632 AD to 634 AD). Although his rule was brief, it was one of the most critical and transformative periods in Islamic history. Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) assumed leadership immediately after the passing of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, at a time when the Muslim community was facing severe internal and external challenges.

One of the greatest trials during his caliphate was the Wars of Apostasy (Ridda Wars). After the death of the Prophet ﷺ, several tribes refused to pay Zakat or declared false prophets. Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) showed exceptional firmness and leadership by decisively confronting these rebellions. His stance preserved the unity of the Muslim Ummah and reinforced the authority of the Islamic state. This decisive action ensured that Islam remained strong and united rather than fragmenting into tribal divisions.

Another major achievement of Hazrat Abu Bakr’s (RA) caliphate was the compilation of the Holy Qur’an into a single written manuscript. Following the Battle of Yamama, where many memorizers of the Qur’an were martyred, Hazrat Umar (RA) advised compiling the Qur’an to protect it from loss. Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) approved this historic task, which was carried out under the supervision of Zaid bin Thabit (RA). This step laid the foundation for preserving the Qur’an in its original form for future generations.

Despite ruling for only two years, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) also initiated early military expeditions beyond Arabia, paving the way for later Islamic conquests during the caliphates of Hazrat Umar (RA) and others. His humility, justice, and unwavering faith set a model of Islamic leadership that continues to inspire Muslims worldwide.