Combating Islam

Why Do Islamic Scholars Sometimes Prioritize Hadith Over Qur’anic Verses?

A Deep Dive into the Role of Hadith in Islamic Law and Theology

Islamic scholarship rests firmly on two foundational texts: the Qur’an, the verbatim word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and the Hadith, the recorded sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet. While the Qur’an is the supreme divine authority, it may seem puzzling that scholars sometimes appear to prioritize hadith over Qur’anic verses in certain legal or theological matters.

In this post, we explore why this occurs within the traditional Islamic framework, supported by classical sources, examples, and clear explanations.

The Primacy of the Qur’an and the Essential Role of Hadith

The Qur’an is the highest authority in Islam:

“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”
— Qur’an 2:2

Yet, the Qur’an itself commands obedience to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):

“And obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy.”
— Qur’an 3:132

This command elevates the Prophet’s Sunnah—his words, deeds, and tacit approvals—making it an indispensable source for understanding and practicing Islam.

Why Is Hadith Essential?

1. The Qur’an Commands Following the Prophet’s Example

Many verses instruct believers to follow the Prophet’s example:

“Indeed in the Messenger of Allah (Muhammad) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day...”
— Qur’an 33:21

“Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you love Allah, then follow me, so Allah will love you...'”
— Qur’an 3:31

These commands show that the Prophet’s Sunnah is integral to faith and practice.

2. The Qur’an’s Conciseness Requires Elaboration

The Qur’an often issues general commands without specifying details. For example, it commands prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage but does not explain exact timings or rituals. These details come from hadith:

Prayer: Qur’an commands prayer (2:43, 2:110), but hadith collections like Sahih al-Bukhari detail the number of prayers, timings, and specific postures.

3. Clarification of Ambiguous Verses

Sometimes, the Qur’an’s wording is general or ambiguous. Hadith clarify and specify rulings.

Alcohol: The Qur’an initially warns against alcohol (2:219) but does not outright forbid it. The Prophet’s hadith later make the prohibition explicit:

“Every intoxicant is unlawful.” — Sahih Muslim 2003

When and Why Do Scholars Prioritize Hadith Over Qur’anic Text?

1. When Hadith Provide Specific Guidance to General Qur’anic Commands

If the Qur’an states a general rule and the hadith gives detailed instructions, scholars rely on hadith to understand how to apply the command.

2. When Hadith Define Limits or Conditions for Qur’anic Commands

The Prophet’s teachings may qualify how a general Qur’anic rule applies, providing legal boundaries or exceptions.

3. When Hadith Expand on Obligations Mentioned in the Qur’an

Hadith fill in practical details necessary for proper observance.

Classical Scholarly Views

Ibn al-Qayyim (d. 751 AH) writes:

“The Sunnah is the detailed explanation of the Qur’an, and obedience to it is obedience to Allah and His Messenger.”
— I‘lam al-Muwaqqi‘in

Al-Mawardi states:

“The Prophet’s Sunnah complements and interprets the Qur’an.”
— al-Ahkam al-Sultaniyya

Thus, the Qur’an and Sunnah are inseparable.

Addressing Apparent Contradictions

Critics sometimes point to hadith that appear harsher than Qur’anic verses. Scholars explain this through:

Clarification of ambiguous verses
Exception cases
Principles of abrogation (naskh)

The Qur’an says:

“We do not abrogate a verse or cause it to be forgotten except that We bring forth [one] better than it or similar to it.”
— Qur’an 2:106

Case Study: The Punishment of Stoning (Rajm)

The Qur’an prescribes lashing for adultery (24:2) but does not mention stoning. However, hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim describe the Prophet ordering stoning for married adulterers.

Classical scholars accept this hadith as authoritative and part of Shariah law, seeing it as complementing and specifying Qur’anic punishment.

Conclusion: A Harmonious Relationship

Islamic scholars do not view hadith as superior to the Qur’an but as its vital explanation and application. The Prophet’s Sunnah ensures Muslims follow the Divine will precisely.

When hadith appear to take precedence, they do so by:

Explaining general Qur’anic guidance
Specifying detailed rulings
Clarifying ambiguous verses
Defining scope and limits

The Qur’an and hadith together form the bedrock of Islamic law and theology.

References

Qur’an 2:2, 3:31, 33:21, 2:183, 24:2, 6:151, 2:106
Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim
Ibn al-Qayyim, I‘lam al-Muwaqqi‘in
Al-Mawardi, al-Ahkam al-Sultaniyya
Jonathan A.C. Brown, Hadith: Muhammad’s Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World