K͟habar Mutawātir (خبر متواتر)
Definition
K͟habar Mutawātir (Arabic: خبر متواتر) refers to a narration or tradition that has been transmitted through numerous independent chains of narrators, such that its authenticity is beyond any reasonable doubt. This type of hadith is considered highly reliable in Islamic scholarship. The concept ensures the utmost credibility of certain traditions by making use of a vast network of narrators who corroborate the same account.
Etymology
K͟habar (Arabic: خبر) means “news” or “report,” and Mutawātir (Arabic: متواتر) derives from the root ت و ر which signifies “continuous” or “successive.” Hence, K͟habar Mutawātir translates to “successive report” or “continuous testimony.”
Turkish Translation
In Turkish, K͟habar Mutawātir is referred to as “Mütevatir Haber”.
Significance and Criteria
K͟habar Mutawātir plays a critical role in preserving Islamic teachings and legal rulings. To classify a hadith as Mutawātir, the following criteria must be met:
- Multiplicity of Chains: The narration must come from so many individuals that it would be impossible for all of them to conspire to produce a false report.
- Reliability and Continuity: The chains of narration must be uninterrupted and consistent.
- Widespread Acceptance: The tradition must be accepted unanimously by scholars and communities over various periods.
Classical and Contemporary Views
Syed Ahmad Khan notes that all learned Muslims throughout history have unequivocally declared the Qur’an as the only K͟habar Mutawātir. However, he acknowledges that some scholars have also classified a handful of ahadith as Mutawātir, although the number often cited does not exceed five.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Studies in Hadith Methodology and Literature” by Muhammad Mustafa Azmi
- “An Introduction to the Sciences of Hadith” by Suhaib Hasan
- “Hadith: Muhammad’s Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World” by Jonathan A.C. Brown
Key Takeaways
- K͟habar Mutawātir signifies a highly credible and widely accepted narration in Islamic tradition.
- It underscores the steadfast transmission of certain Islamic teachings and legal references.
- The term emphasizes a rigorous validation process featuring multiple independent chains of narration.
Conclusion
The concept of K͟habar Mutawātir is fundamental in Islamic scholarship, ensuring that essential teachings and traditions are reliably and authentically preserved. Its stringent criteria serve to uphold the integrity of crucial texts and narratives within the Islamic faith.
References
1. Syed Ahmad Khan, “Essay on the Traditions,” p. 15
