Every morning after Fajr, the morning prayer, Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) would leave the mosque and without letting anyone know where he was going, walking far into the desert in the opposite direction of his home. Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) was curious, as one would be, and decided to follow him one day out into the desert to see what he was doing. Where did he go every morning?
At the time of this story Abu Bakr (RA) was the leader of Muslims, following the Prophet Mohammad’s (peace be upon him) passing in 632 CE. He was responsible for making sure that the Muslim Ummah (community) stayed strong in their faith and stayed together. Even with the weight of this responsibility, his humility and dedication to serving the community and pleasing Allah was unmatched.
That morning Umar (RA) followed behind Abu Bakr (RA) quietly as he walked deeper into the desert and further away from his home. Umar (RA) kept a safe distance, so as not to be noticed but keeping Abu Bakr at the tip of his eyeline, not to lose sight of him. At this point they were no longer in the Madinah, but on the outskirts. Abu Bakr (RA) then slipped into a small derelict house where he stayed for a while, and Umar (RA) waited patiently outside for Abu Bakr (RA) to leave. Once he left Umar (RA) knocked on the door and was greeted by the sight of children playing, and an elderly, frail woman.
He said Assalamu Alaikum (peace be upon you) and asked about her life. She replied, “”I’m a blind woman, my kids died, and I have no one to take care of me. I also have these orphans with me.”
Umar (RA) asked, “Who is that visitor who visits you every single day?” The woman replied, “I do not know his name. He has never told me.” “What does he do for you?” Umar pressed.
The woman answered, “May Allah reward him, every morning he cleans my house, washes our clothes, grinds our wheat, bakes our bread, and prepares our breakfast before leaving.”
Overcome with emotion, Umar (RA) realised that this secret benefactor was none other than Abu Bakr (RA), the leader of the Muslims, the first Caliph, the one entrusted with the preservation of Islam had been secretly serving this woman and these orphaned children.
This story beautifully illustrates how volunteering has been a part of Islam. Abu Bakr (RA) sought no praise or recognition, helping solely for the pleasure of his Lord. Volunteering allows us to emulate the example of great leaders like Abu Bakr (RA).
Bringing the Spirit of Abu Bakr’s Service to Today’s World
What small acts of service can you incorporate into your life to bring joy and relief to others?
In a fast-paced world that often prioritises personal achievement, volunteering offers us a chance to reconnect with the values of compassion, humility, and selflessness. Whether it’s helping a neighbour, supporting community initiatives, or dedicating time to a worthy cause, every act of kindness counts.
Volunteering is not just about giving—it’s about growing. It’s an opportunity to strengthen bonds within our communities and align our actions with the teachings of Islam..
Practical Ways to Volunteer
Photo: Open Iftar 2024 at QPR by Lina Geoushy for Ramadan Tent Project
Inspired by Abu Bakr (RA)’s story? Here are some volunteering opportunities for you:
- Join local mosques or community centres offering support to those in need.
- Volunteer with organisations like us at Ramadan Tent Project, where you can makea difference. For Ramadan Festival 2025, we are looking for volunteers to help create meaningful experiences. Apply here to volunteer.
- Support university Islamic societies, student groups, or cultural organisations.
- Assist with food banks, homeless shelters, or refugee support services in your area.
RTP’s Mission: Bringing Communities Together
At RTP, volunteers have been and will continue to be the backbone of our charity. During Ramadan Festival 2025, volunteers make Open Iftar that much sweeter, making sure everyone eats together. Take inspiration from Abu Bakr’s quiet acts of service and bring them to life through your own efforts.
Watch our volunteers in action: RTP volunteers in action | RTP volunteers in action
Let’s embody the characteristics of Abu Bakr (RA) and find a volunteering opportunity to suit us.
Volunteer for RTP here.
