المستخلص: |
This research paper explores the question of whether the authority of a hadith is based on the number of its narrators. - It also explores whether a hadith whose number of narrators is greater than another is considered more authoritative in the event they conflict when: (i) both reports are equally valid as evidence; and (ii) the number of narrators of both reports do not meet the number required for mass transmission. - There are three scholarly opinions on the matter: 1- The report transmitted by the greatest number of narrators takes precedence over the report transmitted by fewer narrators. 2- Preponderance is not contingent upon the multiplicity of narrators. 3- Preponderance depends on the mujtahid's assumption. - This research paper gives precedence to reports having the greater number of narrators over those with less numbers. - The practical effects of this matter are manifest in certain juristic branches based on conflicting reports, some of which are given preponderance over others because of the multiplicity of narrators.
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