مختلف فیہ رواۃکی مرویات کا حکم علمِ جرح وتعدیل کی روشنی میں

The determination of contradictory narrators' narrations In the light of the science of jarh o tadeel

Abstract

              In accepting or rejecting a hadith, examining its Sanad (chain of transmission) is fundamental. Since the Sanad relies on narrators, a student of hadith must understand their ranks according to Jarh & Taadil (narrator criticism and evaluation). Knowing the ranks of controversial narrators is particularly delicate and challenging due to differences of opinion among the imams of Jarh & Taadil. These conflicts of opinions can arise for various reasons, and understanding them is crucial before passing judgment on a controversial narrator. Additionally, recognizing evidence of preference among conflicting opinions is vital.

By analyzing the opinions of the imams of Jarh & Taadil on certain controversial narrators, the following insights emerged:

• Reconciliation or prioritization of conflicting opinions through evidence would be attempted.
• A controversial narrator's narration may be considered hassan li-zatihi (good in itself) under certain conditions, as mentioned by Ibn-ul-Qattan al-Fasi, Ibn-ul-Salah, and Imam al-Dhahabi, among others.
• The weakness of controversial narrators often stems from memory issues. However, if a narration is corroborated by multiple paths (tadaddud Asnad), it may reach the rank of sahih li-ghayrihi (authentic due to supporting narrations).
• If a controversial narrator is subjected to explained criticism (jarh mufassir), their narration is generally considered weak (daif).