Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) came out during the days of his final illness with a band tied around his head and appeared on the pulpit. He praised and glorified Allah Almighty and then said: Among my life and wealth, no one has been a greater benefactor to me than Abu Bakr bin Abi Quhafa. If I were to take anyone from among the people as my close friend (khalil), I would have taken Abu Bakr as my khalil. However, Islamic brotherhood and relationship is the most virtuous of all. Close every door and path leading to this mosque except the path of Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him); let that remain open.