The Authority of Hadith: A Comparative Study of Traditionalist and Modernist Perspectives

Abstract

This study explores the authority of Hadith as a foundational source of Islamic law and guidance, second only to the Qur’an, by examining the contrasting perspectives of traditionalist and modernist scholars. Traditionalist scholars uphold Hadith as a divinely inspired, indispensable source for interpreting the Qur’an and formulating Islamic law, emphasizing the classical sciences of isnād (chain of transmission) and matn (content analysis) as safeguards of authenticity. In contrast, modernist thinkers, influenced by rationalism, historicism, and Western intellectual currents, challenge the absolute authority of Hadith, arguing for its contextual, selective, or symbolic application in light of reason and changing circumstances. Through a comparative analysis, the paper highlights the epistemological foundations, methodological approaches, and practical implications of both positions. The findings reveal that while the traditionalist stance ensures continuity and preservation of Islamic legal and ethical frameworks, the modernist critique seeks to reconcile faith with modern intellectual trends, often at the risk of fragmenting consensus. This study underscores the enduring significance of the debate on Hadith authority for contemporary Islamic thought and its implications for jurisprudence, theology, and the lived experience of Muslims.