When the Prophet (ﷺ) fell ill, he said, "Order Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer." `Aisha said, "Abu
Bakr is a soft-hearted person. The Prophet (ﷺ) gave the same order again and she again gave the same
reply. He again said, "Order Abu Bakr (to lead the prayer)! You are (like) the female companions of
Joseph." Consequently Abu Bakr led the people in prayer in the life-time of the Prophet.
Sahih al-Bukhari Book 60, Hadith 59