The connection and contributions of Caliph Abū Bakr to the first Muslim liberation of Islamicjerusalem

The first Muslim liberation of Islamicjerusalem in the seventh century is a remarkable triumph in history. This historical event raised the credibility of Islam between two superpowers, the Byzantines and the Persians. Because the event occurred in the era of 'Umar Ibn al-Khaṭṭāb, most people attribute this liberation to him. Consequently, previous research typically investigated only the role of the second Caliph as the leader of the liberation, and numerous literatures are dedicated to reflecting on his efforts and achievements regarding this significant event. On the other hand, there is limited published literature on the Muslims' leader before 'Umar Ibn al-Khaṭṭāb, which is Abū Bakr as the first Caliph. Abū Bakr's role in the liberation of Islamicjerusalem was not widely discussed and therefore required specific research on this matter, which became the main aim of this study. This research proposed the argument that after the death of the Prophet, Abū Bakr has contributed many things not just to strengthen the foundation of the Islamic State in Madinah but also for the liberation of Islamicjerusalem. As one of the three main cities in Islam, Islamicjerusalem's significance and sacredness are vital, and hence, the efforts to liberate this land became the priority for Prophet Muhammad and his companions. The investigation and analysis show the previous argument that among the Prophet's companions, no one knows better than Abū Bakr about the Prophet's plan to liberate Islamicjerusalem has been proven, based on primary resources and historical records. Abū Bakr's connection in spiritual, religious, and political aspects with Islamicjerusalem in the Makkan and Madinah periods is crucial to his achievement. His solid connection with the Holy Land developed further into significant contributions during his reign as the Caliph to pave the way for the liberation of Islamicjerusalem. Ultimately, with Abū Bakr's connection and contributions to the liberation of Islamicjerusalem, the first Muslim liberation of the Holy Land could be achieved in a short period after his death. Finally, it illustrates that the vision towards Islamicjerusalem is a legacy relayed over the generations of the Muslim ummah, as demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad, Abū Bakr, and 'Umar Ibn al-Khaṭṭāb. Further research could benefit this study by analyzing every aspect of Abū Bakr's connection and contributions in a contemporary context.