The Difference Between Qur’an, Sharia, and Hadith: Understanding the Core of Islam

For over twelve centuries, Muslims around the world have relied on man-made Sharia laws based on Riwaaya and so-called ahadith instead of the Qur’an. This article aims to clarify the distinctions between these fundamental concepts in Islam: the Qur’an, the Hadith, and Sharia. By understanding these terms, one can navigate the complex yet essential aspects of Islamic practice and belief.

The Divine Qur'an

The Qur’an is the holy book revealed by Allah to Prophet Muhammad. It is considered the ultimate source for guidance and religious knowledge. The Qur'an contains divine wisdom and guidance, and its authenticity is unchallenged among Muslims. According to the Qur'an itself, it is:

“This is the Book whereof there is no doubt, a guidance to those who are Al-Muttaqoon [the pious].” [al-Baqarah 2:2]

The Qur’an is a confirmation of the previous revelations and a comprehensive guide for mankind, jinn, and all that exists. It provides direction and wisdom to maintain a righteous path:

“It [the Qur’an] guides to that which is most just. And He has made it a guidance and a mercy for the people who believe.” [al-Baqarah 2:185]

Understanding Hadith and its Role

Hadith is the study and compilation of narrations that describe the actions, sayings, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad. Hadiths provide context, detail, and explanation to various aspects of Islamic life and worship. They can include descriptions of actions like prayer, zakat, and Hajj, as well as interpretations of commands that were not explicitly detailed in the Qur'an. For instance:

“Al-Ummuhaat as-Sitt wal-Riwaayaat wal-Ahkaam al-Mumkinah wal-Fqh” (The Six Main Collections of Hadith, Narrations, Legal Rulings, and Jurisprudence).

The six most authentic collections of Hadith, in order of overall authenticity, are:

Distinguishing Sunnah from Hadith

Though often used interchangeably, Sunnah and Hadith have slightly different uses in Islamic scholarship. Sunnah refers to actions deemed exemplary by Muslims, as taught by Prophet Muhammad. However, in scholarly discourse, the term Hadith is preferred when discussing the authenticity and reliability of these reports:

“And by Allah, He asks you to judge between them with that which Allah has revealed, and does not follow their inclinations and whims. And whatever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatever he forbids you, abstain from it. And fear Allah . . .” [al-Ma'idah 5:54]

The leading Islamic scholar Ibn As-Salah articulated the distinction between Sunnah and Hadith as follows:

“In this context, Sunnah is the opposite of bid`ah (innovation). A person may be a scholar of Hadith but still be an innovator. Malik (the founder of Maliki jurisprudence) combined both Sunnahs. He was a scholar of the Sunnah (Hadith) as well as following the Sunnah (the path of true Islam without innovations).”

Sharia: The Legislation of Islam

Sharia refers to the entire legal system and practice of Islam. It encompasses all hudud (prescribed punishments), faraidh (obligatory duties), and tashri` (legislation). Sharia outlines the halaal and haraam (permissible and forbidden) actions for Muslims. Following Sharia is considered a path to spiritual triumph and avoiding Allah’s wrath:

“Then We put you [O Muhammad ] on an ordained way concerning the matter [of religion] so follow it and do not follow the inclinations of those who do not know.” [al-Jathiyah 45:18]

The scholars of the Permanent Committee further explain:

“Shari’ah is that with which Allah sent down His Books and sent His messengers to people so that they would put it into practice by way of worshipping Allah and seeking to draw close to Him according to what the messengers enjoined.”

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between the Qur’an, Hadith, and Sharia is crucial for any Muslim seeking to follow the path of true Islam. The Qur’an provides the foundational revelations, Hadith offers context and detail, and Sharia codifies the legal system and practice. By studying and adhering to these principles, Muslims can fulfill the religious duties ordained by Allah and seek peace and prosperity in both the hereafter and in this life.

For further reading, we recommend consulting original sources and scholarly resources for a deeper understanding of these vital concepts.