Comprehensive Definition
K͟HABAR MUTAWĀTIR (خبر متواتر) refers to a specific category of Islamic narration within Hadith literature. It designates traditions that have been transmitted through a multiplicity of independently corroborating chains (isnāds) of reliable narrators, to the extent that the authenticity of the report is beyond doubt and skepticism.
Etymology
The term “K͟HABAR” means “news” or “report,” while “MUTAWĀTIR” derives from the root word “ṭ-w-r”, indicating something that occurs repetitively in sequence, translating to “consecutive” or “frequently recurrent.”
Background
The principle of Khabar Mutawatir plays a vital role in Islamic jurisprudence and scholarship, ensuring the veracity and cementing the reliability of certain religious narrations. It signifies reports handed down through multiple, diverse vehicles so widely accepted that there is no reasonable doubt regarding their authenticity.
Hadith Classification
In Islamic paradigm, Ahadith (singular Hadith) are typically classified into various categories based on their chain of transmission. Khabar Mutawatir stands as the highest form of confirmed narrations due to its multitude of paths.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities
- Verification: Different cultures and religions employ rigorous verification methods to affirm historical or religious narratives.
- Multiple Sources: Assuring the accuracy of information via numerous sources is a practice shared by historical sciences and traditions everywhere.
- Universality: Most religions have a concept akin to Mutawatir to emphasize effectively indisputable traditions (e.g., Buddhas’ Teachings).
Differences
- Scale of Narrators: Islamic tradition uniquely stresses the multiplicity of independent narrators to an extent often unmatched by other religions.
- Influence on Law: In Islam, the Mutawatir classification has a direct impact on legal and theological discourse — not merely scholarly reference.
Synonyms
- Verified Narration
- True Report
- Consecutive Transmission
Antonyms
- Khabar Ahad (Singular Report)
- Mursal Hadith (Uninterrupted Chain)
Related Terms With Definitions
- Hadith: Sayings, actions, and approvals related to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Isnad: Chain of narrators reporting a Hadith.
- Sahih: A category describing highly authenticated Hadiths.
Exciting Facts
- A Hadith must be verified by an unbroken and reliable sequence of narrators to be considered Mutawatir.
- The Qurʾān is considered the ultimate Khabar Mutawatir among Islamic scholars.
- Despite high authenticity, only a handful of Hadiths are explicitly acknowledged as Mutawatir.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Every beam of knowledge transmitted in Islam passes through the prism of verification. The brilliance of Khabar Mutawatir lies in its dazzling transparency.” — Muhammad Al-Ghazali
References
- Khan, Syud Ahmad. “Essay on the Traditions.”
- Al-Bukhari. “Sahih Al-Bukhari”
- Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj. “Sahih Muslim”
Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies
- “The Science of Hadith Classification” by Ibn Hajar Al-Asqalani
- “Hadith Literature: Its Origin, Development, and Special Features” by Muhammad Zubayr Siddiqui
- “Studies in Hadith Methodology and Literature” by Muhammad Mustafa Azami
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
May the quest for knowledge illuminate your path as the sun’s rays blaze through the windows of dawn. Continue to seek, learn, and comprehend the intricate treasures locked within the annals of tradition and humanity.
