After the demise of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), Hadhrat Bilaal was overwhelmed by grief and sorrow. He resolved never again to recite the Athaan. He was the special Muath-thin of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

Many years thereafter, in Jerusalem, Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) who had arrived to take possession of the city, requested Hadhrat Bilaal (radhiyallahu anhu) to call the Athaan. Hadhrat Bilaal (radhiyallahu anhu) mentioned that he had resolved never to call the Athaan for anyone after the demise of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Nevertheless, he agreed to make an exception in obedience to Ameerul Mu'mineen, Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu).

When he began the Athaan, memories of Ra­sulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) wafted through the minds of the Sahaabah. When he recited the name of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), the hearts of many strong Sahaabah melted and they all sobbed profusely. Hadhrat Abu Ubaidah and Muaaz Bin Jabal (radhiyallahu anhuma) wept disconsolately. Ameerul Mu'mineen lapsed into a fit of sobs.