The Term "ʿArḍ" Between Descriptive and Critical Discourse: An Inductive-Analytical Study

Abstract

Abstract:

Objectives:This study seeks to shed light on a significant conceptual term within the critical framework established by early hadith scholars: “ʿarḍ” (presentation). While it has been conventionally defined as a mode of transmission and narration, the research questions whether its use by critics was limited to this technical definition. It further explores the relationship between ʿarḍ and hadith criticism and examines its main critical applications.

Methods: The study employs a descriptive approach to trace the term, an inductive method to collect its various usages, and an analytical approach to interpret its critical meanings.

Results: The term ʿarḍ was used by hadith critics in broader contexts than merely transmission, including in evaluative and critical functions. Limiting its meaning to its technical definition reduces its conceptual scope. The study warns against confining scholarly interpretations of this term to narrow definitions.

Conclusion: The term ʿarḍ had diverse uses in classical hadith criticism and should be understood in light of its contextual usage.

Keywords: ʿarḍ, transmission and narration, criticism, terminology.