Allah has created mankind with such an intellect which equips him to differentiate between right and wrong. Mankind also goes through phrases known as ghaflah or heedlessness, which clouds his natural corrective vision. As a result, he often agrees to many evils, falling blind to its harms. However, the ultimate creator is fully aware of this downfall of man and as a result has prepared guidance for him even before his existence. The form of this guidance varies throughout time. For some nations, it existed in the form of miracles of prophets or books full of commands and instructions. However, Allah intended a unique and supreme form of guidance for this unique Ummah. Allah blessed the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with two forms of guidance which eliminate its followers in their own unique style.

“I leave behind me two things, the Quran and the Sunnah, and if you follow these you will never go astray”

Although Allah sent many books to previous nations, they failed to remain in their original state and were quickly changed by corrupt man to suit their own whims and desires. However, Allah himself took the responsibility to preserve this book in its original state.

“Surely, we have revealed this reminder, and surely we are its guardian and protector”

Due to the complexity of the Quran, the prophet explained its verses to his companions through his actions and sayings. When asked by one of his companions regarding the prophet’s code of conduct, his wife, Aysha (rd) replied ‘his manners were the Quran.’ Implying that his actions were a manifestation of the teachings of the Quran. As a result, Allah also preserved the sayings and actions of the holy prophet (SAW) what we know as Hadeeth today.
The Hadeeth is defined in the books of theology as the Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) sayings, actions or occasions involving the Prophet (SAW).
There have been many compilations of Hadeeth in various eras which have helped preserve the tradition of the prophet (SAW). One of the earliest is the book of Hammam bin Munabbih. However, there a have been many other compilations that have become very popular and accepted amongst the majority of Muslims, such as the sihaa-sitta or the six authentic compilations. The Hadeeth compiled in these books consist of two parts. The first part is known as the Sanad or chain of narration. The author of the book states the name of the individual who he heard the Hadeeth from and he narrates the Hadeeth from his teacher and so forth, till the Sahabi and finally to the Prophet (SAW). To ensure the authenticity of these sacred Hadeeth, those that narrate the Hadeeth are observed and examined deeply to ensure they have no past history of impiousness or lying. Only those Hadeeth which are narrated from dependable relaters are accepted to be authentic. This scrutinizeation ensures authenticity of the Hadeeth which exists in no other religion than Islam. One of the most authentic compilation of Hadeeth is known as Saheeh al Bukhari written by Imam Muhammed ibn Ismail al Bukhari (204-261H). His dedication to Hadeeth was very high which resulted to his book –often known as the most authentic book after the holy Quran- being accepted throughout the Muslim world. There have also been many other great personalities that have dedicated there entire lives to the service of Hadeeth. Most recently is the great sheikh of Saharanpur, India, Shekul Hadeeth Hazret Moulana Muhammed Zakariyya (N.M) who amongst writing many great commentaries on Hadeeth, taught Sahheh Bukhari for over forty years.
After studying the Hadeeth, an individual may recognize the lifestyle of the Prophet (SAW). For Allah has sent the Prophet (SAW) as a epitome and sublime example for mankind and he has ordered us to follow in his footsteps. This can be achieved primary through the study and practice of Hadeeth.
Amongst the many benefits of studying and teaching Hadeeth, the most great is the connection a devotee reaches with Allah and the Prophet (SAW) through its study. The love of the Prophet (SAW) penetrates the heart which is a prime factor in eternal success.

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