Authentic Dream Interpretations The Quran and the Hadith are two pivotal sources that lead the direction to life based on Muslim ideology. Though the Quran itself is the word of Allah, Hadith includes words, sayings, acts, and deeds accepted by Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Both work hand-in-glove for complete Islamic directions in respect to life’s affairs. However, some people are questioning whether Hadith is necessary because they seem to be unrelated to the Qur’an. This blog will answer the concerns above by explaining how these two sources are interdependent and what role Hadith plays, why the perceived relationship between them is a misconception.
Relationship Between the Qur’an and Hadith
The Qur’an lays down the core principles of faith and guidance. However, it often presents general commands without elaborating on specific details. This is where the Hadith becomes indispensable—it provides context, explanations, and practical applications of the Qur’anic teachings.
Qur’an as the Ultimate Source of Guidance
The Qur’an states:
“Indeed, this Qur’an guides to that which is most suitable.” (Qur’an 17:9)
While the Qur’an is a universal and eternal guide, its commandments sometimes need clarification. For instance, the Qur’an instructs Muslims to pray but does not say how many times they are supposed to pray in a day or how they should pray. The Hadith explains these details.
Hadith as the Practical Implementation of the Qur’an
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was not only a messenger but also a model for people to follow. According to the Qur’an:
“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day.”. Qur’an 33:21
The Hadith will therefore ensure proper understanding and implementation of the Quran, hence the impossibility of differentiating between them.
The Necessity of Hadith in Understanding Islam
1. Explanation of Qur’anic Verses
Most verses in the Qur’an are very brief and thus require more explanation. For example, the Qur’an advises Muslims to pay zakah but does not give any rates or who should receive it. Hadith is essential in providing such details so that the process is properly implemented.
2. Clarification of Ambiguities
Without the explanatory role of Hadith, some Qur’anic commandments may seem ambiguous. For instance, the prohibition of consuming “intoxicants” (Qur’an 5:90) is clarified in the Hadith to include alcohol and drugs.
3. Legal and Ethical Guidance
Shari’ah, Islamic law, originates from both the Qur’an and Hadith. The Hadith provides significant value in establishing marriage, inheritance, business transactions, and social ethics laws; these have been established with the motive of justice and harmony in society.
4. Preservation of Sunnah (Prophetic Practices)
The Hadith preserves the Sunnah of the Prophet, comprising his actions, decisions, and life. This is a guide for Muslims, giving examples of how to live according to the Qur’an.
Dispelling the Misconception of Disconnection
The charge of disconnection between the Qur’an and Hadith often originates from a misunderstanding or selective reading of Islamic sources.
1. Misinterpretation of Qur’anic Verses
Some claim that the Qur’an is complete and, as proof, quote verses such as:
“We have not neglected in the Book a thing.” (Qur’an 6:38)
But that verse speaks of the Qur’an’s completeness in relation to the fundamental principles of guidance. The role of Hadith is to complement those principles by providing practical details.
2. Selective Rejection of Hadith
A minority of people, often called “Qur’anists,” reject the Hadith entirely, claiming it is unnecessary. This view contradicts the Qur’an itself, which commands obedience to the Prophet:
“And whatever the Messenger has given you—take it; and what he has forbidden you—refrain from it.” (Qur’an 59:7)
Rejecting the Hadith undermines the authority of the Prophet and the completeness of Islam.
The Role of Authenticity in the Acceptance of Hadith
1. Compilation and Preservation
Scholars meticulously collected and preserved the Hadith through rigorous methodologies. The science of Hadith classification ensures that only authentic narrations are accepted as reliable sources of guidance.
2. Categories of Hadith
Hadith is classified into authentic (Sahih), good (Hasan), and weak (Da’if) categories based on the chain of narrators and content. This system safeguards the integrity of Islamic teachings.
Practical Examples Highlighting the Necessity of Hadith
Prayer (Salah)
The Qur’an commands Muslims to establish prayer but does not describe its method. On the other hand, the Hadith gives specific details about performing Salah: when to do it, postures during its performance, and recitations.
Fasting (Sawm)
The Qur’an points out the obligation of fasting but does not provide details about specific matters, such as the Suhoor and the action that negates fasting. These details come from the Hadith.
Hajj (Pilgrimage)
The Qur’an stresses the performance of Hajj but does not elucidate the rites. The Prophet’s Hadith shows the steps to be followed, such as Tawaf (circumambulation), Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah), and standing at Arafat.
How to Approach the Qur’an and Hadith Together
For complete benefit from Islamic teachings, Muslims must approach the Qur’an and Hadith together as complementary sources.
1. Learn from Reliable Scholars
Seek knowledge from scholars knowledgeable in both the Qur’an and Hadith to make an accurate understanding.
2. Read Genuine Sources
Read authentic collections of Hadith, including Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, along with the Qur’an.
3. Adopt a Comprehensive Perspective
Realize that the Qur’an and Hadith cannot be separated in the life of any Muslim, guiding the religious, moral, and social life of a Muslim individual.
Conclusion: The Quran and Hadith are inextricable pillars of Islam.
The Qur’an and Hadith are not against each other; they complement and supplement each other. While the Qur’an gives divine commands, the Hadith elaborates and applies those commandments.
Read more: Fasting And I’tikaf
