The Eras of the Chain of Hadith and its impact on discrediting the narrator or confirming his reliability: A theoretical study

Abstract

To establish any ruling in Islam, it is crucial to provide a connected chain for it, be it related to a juristic ruling or rulings related to creed. Sunnah being the second source of Shariah, Any prophetic tradition, whether its his speech, action, or a ruling is not accepted without a connected chain. The statement of Imam Abdullah bin Mubarark “Isnaad is from the Deen” has been taken by the Muhaddithin to refer to the above importance related to Isaand. Henceforth, it is crucial to keep this in mind when attacking or critiquing any Muslim. It is not permissible to criticize a Muslim until and unless it’s proven through a connected chain and verified from all angles. The rubric set out by the Muhaddithin for verifying Sanad and Matn is also used to verify the statements of Jarh (criticism), hence this article will expand on some of those rulings set out by the Muhaddithin in details.