Strengthening the Ummah

The Prophet (ﷺ) went out to affect a reconciliation between the tribes of Bani `Amr bin `Auf and the time
of the prayer became due; Bilal went to Abu Bakr and said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) is detained. Will you lead
the people in the prayer?" Abu Bakr replied, "Yes, if you wish." So Bilal pronounced the Iqama and
Abu Bakr led the prayer. In the meantime the Prophet (ﷺ) came crossing the rows (of the praying people)
till he stood in the first row and the people started clapping. Abu Bakr never looked hither and thither
during the prayer but when the people clapped too much, he looked back and saw the Prophet (ﷺ) in the
(first) row. The Prophet (ﷺ) waved him to remain at his place, but Abu Bakr raised both his hands and
sent praises to Allah and then retreated and the Prophet (ﷺ) went forward and led the prayer. (See Hadith
No. 295 & 296)