Understanding Mutawatir Hadith

Abstract

The views of scholars differ regarding the division of hadith based on the number of narrators. M. Anwar BC. HK divides hadith into two, namely mutawatir and ahad. Mutawatir hadiths are divided into three: mutawatir lafdzi, mutawatir 'amali, and mutawatir ma'nawi. The definition of mutawatir hadith is a hadith narrated by several narrators who cannot possibly agree to lie. Scholars differ in opinion about the number of narrators, the minimum is 10 according to al-Ishtikhari. The division of mutawatir hadith involves four criteria, including responses from the five senses and the same number of sanad at each level. Some scholars propose a minimum number of narrators, such as four, five, or 20 people. The mutawatir lafdzi hadith has the same lafazh, for example, the threat against lying in the name of the Prophet. The mutawatir ma'nawi hadith concerns mutawatir meanings without having to have the same pronunciation. The mutawatir 'amali hadith involves the actions of the Prophet which were witnessed and imitated by many people. Mutawatir hadith have a high position in Islamic teachings, providing certain and urgent knowledge that comes from the Prophet. Its position is higher than the hadith ahad, and rejecting it is the same as rejecting the position of the Prophet Muhammad as the messenger of Allah.