صحابی کی تفہیم: اصولیین اور محدثین کے نقطہ نظر کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

The concept of a "Sahabi" (Companion) holds significant importance in Islamic scholarship, particularly among the scholars (Uṣūliyyīn) and traditionists (Muḥaddithīn). This study examines the definitions and interpretations provided by both groups, drawing from the work of Allama Syed Shah Hussain Gardezi in his book Tafazaniya. Gardezi emphasizes that there is no definitive scriptural definition of "Sahabi" in the Quran or Hadith. Instead, the definitions emerged in the third century Hijri and are inherently interpretative, leading to inevitable disagreements among scholars based on their preferences, aspirations, and intellectual frameworks. While Gardezi upholds the Uṣūliyyīn's definition as more robust due to its inclusion of specific conditions that delineate the status of companionship, he also acknowledges the perspectives of the Muḥaddithīn. Despite this, he critiques their views for lacking substantial evidence. The study further explores the implications of these differing definitions, noting that strict adherence to certain criteria can exclude numerous companions from the esteemed status of "Sahabi." Ultimately, this research seeks to elucidate the complexities surrounding the definition of a Sahabi within Islamic scholarly discourse, highlighting the interplay between different interpretative frameworks.