The Common Proverb and Its Use in Criticizing Narrators: (The Words Aḥad al-ḥdyn and Nsʼl Allāh al-Salāmah as Examples)

Abstract

Objectives: The current study aims to explore an aspect of the innovations in hadith scholarship and the capabilities of hadith scholars in the field of hadith criticism. Specifically, it examines how scholars effectively use common proverbs to criticize narrators, either by amending or condemning them.

Methods: The study adopts an inductive approach to trace the names of narrators described using the phrases "one of the two" (Aḥad al-ḥdyn) and "we ask God for safety" (Nsʼl Allāh al-Salāmah) in sources related to narrators. This is followed by a comparative analytical method, analyzing the statements of hadith critics regarding these narrators and comparing them to assess whether these narrators truly deserve the descriptions given to them.

Results: The study reaches the following conclusions:

• Second: The phrase “one of the two” is considered one of the highest and most significant forms of modification, indicating that the person is unique or without equal. It is similar to the popular proverb "So-and-so is unparalleled."
• Third: The phrase “We ask God for safety” is a severe form of criticism. It is typically used only when referring to someone who fabricates hadith, narrates erroneous or reprehensible material, or belongs to a group associated with heresy and innovations. This phrase aligns with the popular proverb: “Thank you, and may you be safe and sound,” or “May you be safe and healthy”.
• Conclusion: The study recommends giving greater attention to words of criticism and modification, particularly those expressed in the form of a common proverb. This should involve conducting comparative studies, monitoring the narrators to whom these expressions are attributed, and identifying corresponding proverbs and their meanings.