A Review of the Compilation and Authenticity of Hadith (Part Five)
The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) as a Role Model
It is clear that accepting what the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) has stated as an explanation and interpretation of the Quran, as well as embracing the “wisdom” revealed to him, is obligatory for every Muslim. In addition to these two aspects, the third obligation emphasized by the Holy Quran is to follow the example of the Islamic and religious life of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), which is reflected in his noble character. As stated in Surah Al-Ahzab: «لَقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِي رَسُولِ اللَّه أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِمَنْ كَانَ يَرْجُو اللَّهَ وَالْيَومَ الآخر وَذَكَرَ اللَّهَ كَثِيراً» Translation: “Indeed, you have in the Messenger of Allah an excellent example for whoever hopes in Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much.”
In this verse, Allah Almighty commands us to emulate the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) in all aspects of life, not just during times of war and hardship. This includes remembering his patience and resilience and striving to follow his example in all circumstances. Unfortunately, some individuals misunderstand this verse, arguing that it is illogical to follow the Prophet during times of war but not during peace. They might claim, for example, that while the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is an admirable example in matters of jihad, his personality is not necessary to emulate in relation to prayer and Hajj.
Furthermore, it is emphasized elsewhere that those who claim to love Allah must show complete and unwavering obedience to the Holy Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him). The Quran states: «قُلْ إِنْ كُنتُمْ تُحِبُّوْنَ اللَّهَ فَاتَّبِعُونِي يُحْبِبْكُمُ اللَّهُ» “Say, if you love Allah, then follow me (the Prophet); Allah will love you.”
Here, the criterion for love of Allah is absolute obedience to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). If the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is not considered a role model, and the community of the Quran is not obliged to follow him, then why does Allah command the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to call people to follow him? It is unreasonable to interpret “follow me” as merely listening to what he communicates from the Quran.
From the above, it is evident to seekers of truth that the community of believers was not directed to act arbitrarily regarding the Quran or to interpret it based on their personal thoughts and ideas. Instead, they are commanded to accept the “wisdom” that has been revealed alongside the Quran and to regard the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as their practical role model. They should understand and comprehend the Holy Quran solely through his teachings, explanations, and interpretations.
Once this principle is established, it is important to recognize that the explanations and interpretations provided by the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) for the Quran, the revealed wisdom, and the comprehensive plan of his life as conveyed by his esteemed Sahaba (may Allah be pleased with them) are referred to as “Hadith and Sunnah.” According to the texts of the Divine Book, all three—Quran, Hadith, and Sunnah—are obligatory to accept. In other words, the Holy Quran mandates the acceptance and adherence to “Hadith and Sunnah.”
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