Extraordinary Results of his Decision
The decision of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) produced extraordinary results. Whilst mentioning this, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) states:
“Despite the contrary view held by the companions, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) sent Hazrat Usamah bin Zaid (ra) along with his army to Mu‘tah. Subsequently, this army fulfilled its mission and after 40 days, returned to Medina victorious. Everyone witnessed the succour of God and victory with their own eyes. After this, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) turned his attention to the matter of the false claimants of prophets, and dealt with them in such a manner that he completely crushed this dissension and not a trace remained. Later, the same was the outcome for those who had become apostates. Even the opinions of the pre-eminent companions were contrary to that of Abu Bakr’s (ra); they said that how could he raise the sword against the people who professed the oneness of God and accepted the prophethood of the Holy Prophet (sa), but only refused to pay the Zakat. However, showing the utmost bravery and courage, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) said, ‘If, today, permission is granted to abstain from paying the Zakat, then slowly, people will abandon the prayer and fasting and only the mere name of Islam would remain.’ Thus, under such circumstances, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) waged war against those who refused to pay the Zakat. The result was the same, in that God Almighty granted Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) victory and succour. All those who had strayed off the right path returned.”
(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 10, p. 478)