On the day of the Battle of Jamal, Sayyiduna Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) said that regarding leadership, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did not give us any specific instruction that we should act upon; rather, it was a matter that we selected for ourselves. First, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) became the caliph—may Allah's mercy descend upon him—he remained steadfast and established (the caliphate). Then Sayyiduna Umar Farooq (may Allah be pleased with him) became the caliph—may Allah's mercy descend upon him as well—he remained steadfast and established (the caliphate) until the religion laid its neck on the ground (i.e., it became firm and strong).