In the vast tapestry of Islam, the Sunnah holds a unique and vital position. It serves as a companion to the Quran, the revealed word of God, by providing guidance and understanding through the traditions and practices of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Understanding the Sunnah is crucial for Muslims seeking to live a life aligned with Islamic principles and values.
The Sunnah, literally meaning “the way,” encapsulates the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) that were authentically transmitted and practiced by his companions. It encompasses his teachings, behaviors, and silent approvals on various aspects of life, from religious rituals and etiquette to social interactions and political leadership.
The this authenticated hadith emphasizes the importance of following the Prophet’s (ﷺ) example:
It was narrated on the authority of Abu Najih al-Irbad bin Sariyah (ra) who said:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) delivered an admonition that made our hearts fearful and our eyes tearful. We said, "O Messenger of Allah, it is as if this were a farewell sermon, so advise us." He said,": I enjoin you to have Taqwa of Allah and that you listen and obey, even if a slave is made a ruler over you. He among you who lives long enough will see many differences. So for you is to observe my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly-principled and rightly-guided successors, holding on to them with your molar teeth. Beware of newly-introduced matters, for every innovation (bid'ah) is an error.
By following the Sunnah, Muslims gain practical guidance on how to fulfill their core obligations to God. It serves as a detailed interpretation of the Quran's principles, demonstrating their application in everyday life. The Sunnah also provides insights into the Prophet's (ﷺ) personal character and ethical values, offering a role model for Muslims to strive towards.
عَنْ أَبِي نَجِيحٍ الْعِرْبَاضِ بْنِ سَارِيَةَ رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ قَالَ: "وَعَظَنَا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم مَوْعِظَةً وَجِلَتْ مِنْهَا الْقُلُوبُ، وَذَرَفَتْ مِنْهَا الْعُيُونُ، فَقُلْنَا: يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ! كَأَنَّهَا مَوْعِظَةُ مُوَدِّعٍ فَأَوْصِنَا، قَالَ: أُوصِيكُمْ بِتَقْوَى اللَّهِ، وَالسَّمْعِ وَالطَّاعَةِ وَإِنْ تَأَمَّرَ عَلَيْكُمْ عَبْدٌ، فَإِنَّهُ مَنْ يَعِشْ مِنْكُمْ فَسَيَرَى اخْتِلَافًا كَثِيرًا، فَعَلَيْكُمْ بِسُنَّتِي وَسُنَّةِ الْخُلَفَاءِ الرَّاشِدِينَ الْمَهْدِيينَ، عَضُّوا عَلَيْهَا بِالنَّوَاجِذِ، وَإِيَّاكُمْ وَمُحْدَثَاتِ الْأُمُورِ؛ فَإِنَّ كُلَّ بِدْعَةٍ ضَلَالَةٌ". [رَوَاهُ أَبُو دَاوُدَ]، وَاَلتِّرْمِذِيُّ [رقم:266] وَقَالَ: حَدِيثٌ حَسَنٌ صَحِيحٌ.
The Sunnah encompasses various categories, each with its own level of authority and impact:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Qawli | Sayings of the Prophet (ﷺ) transmitted through reliable chains of narrators. |
| Fi’li | Actions and practices demonstrated by the Prophet (ﷺ) and followed by his companions. |
| Taqriri | Silent approvals of the Prophet (ﷺ) towards the actions of others, indicating their permissibility. |