Ahadith

Ahadith are the recorded sayings, actions, and approvals of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. They form a crucial secondary source of Islamic theology and law, supplementing the Quran. The collection and authentication of hadith were a significant undertaking by Muslim scholars, particularly in the centuries following Muhammad's death. They are categorized based on their chain of transmission, known as the isnad, and the content, known as the matn.

The reliability of a hadith is assessed through rigorous criteria applied to the isnad, examining the character and memory of each narrator in the chain. If the chain is deemed unbroken and the narrators trustworthy, the hadith is considered authentic (sahih). Other classifications include hasan (good), da'if (weak), and mawdu' (fabricated). Major compilations of hadith include Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, considered the most authentic collections by Sunni Muslims.

Ahadith are used to explain and elaborate on the Quranic verses, provide guidance on various aspects of daily life, and establish legal rulings. They offer insights into the practical application of Islamic principles as demonstrated by Muhammad's example. The study of hadith, known as hadith studies or 'ulum al-hadith, is a specialized field within Islamic scholarship, focusing on textual criticism, historical context, and jurisprudence. Different branches of Islam, such as Sunni and Shia, have their own distinct collections and methodologies for evaluating hadith.