What are "The Four Books" in the context of Shia Islam?

The Four Books, known in Arabic as al-Kutub al-Arba'ah, are the four canonical hadith collections recognized by Shia Islam. This designation is primarily used by Twelver Shias, who consider these collections to be foundational texts for understanding the traditions and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the Imams.

What is the Arabic name for "The Four Books" and its romanization?

The Arabic name for "The Four Books" is al-Kutub al-Arba'ah, romanized as al-Kutub al-Arba'a. This term signifies their status as the principal compendia of hadith within Shia Islam.

Who is credited with compiling the hadith collection known as Kitab al-Kafi?

The hadith collection titled Kitab al-Kafi was compiled by Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni al-Razi. He completed this work in the year 329 AH (After Hijra), making it one of the earliest and most comprehensive Shia hadith collections.

Who compiled the hadith collection Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih?

Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih was compiled by Muhammad ibn Babawayh, also known as Al-Shaykh al-Saduq. This collection is another cornerstone of Shia hadith literature.

Which individual is responsible for compiling the hadith collections Tahdhib al-Ahkam and Al-Istibsar?

Shaykh Muhammad Tusi compiled both the Tahdhib al-Ahkam and Al-Istibsar. He was a prominent Shia scholar whose works are highly regarded.

Approximately how many hadith are contained within the Kitab al-Kafi?

The Kitab al-Kafi contains approximately 16,199 hadith. This extensive collection covers a wide range of topics related to Islamic jurisprudence, beliefs, and practices.

What is the approximate number of hadith found in Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih?

Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih includes approximately 9,044 hadith. This collection is known for its focus on legal and jurisprudential matters.

How many hadith are estimated to be in the Tahdhib al-Ahkam collection?

The Tahdhib al-Ahkam collection is estimated to contain around 13,590 hadith. This work is significant for its detailed examination and explanation of hadith.

What is the approximate hadith count for Al-Istibsar?

Al-Istibsar is estimated to contain approximately 5,511 hadith. It is one of the four major Shia hadith collections compiled by Shaykh Muhammad Tusi.

What is the total approximate number of hadith across the four canonical Shia collections?

The total number of hadith across the four canonical Shia collections, known as The Four Books, is approximately 44,344. This figure represents the combined count from Kitab al-Kafi, Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih, Tahdhib al-Ahkam, and Al-Istibsar.

Why do Shia Muslims utilize different hadith collections compared to Sunni Muslims?

Shia Muslims use different hadith collections than Sunni Muslims primarily because they consider many of the transmitters cited in Sunni collections to be unreliable. This distrust stems from historical political allegiances and perceived opposition to the family of the Prophet Muhammad (Ahlul Bayt).

What historical factors contribute to Shia distrust of many Sunni hadith transmitters?

Shia Muslims often view many Sunni transmitters of hadith as unreliable because numerous transmitters sided with figures like Abu Bakr, Umar, and Uthman, rather than exclusively with Ali and the Prophet Muhammad's family. Furthermore, many were narrated through individuals who fought against Ahlul Bayt or supported their adversaries, such as Aisha, who fought Ali at the Battle of Jamal, or Muawiya, who fought Ali at Siffin.

Whose traditions do Shia Muslims generally trust for hadith transmission?

Shia Muslims place their trust in traditions transmitted through the Imams, who are considered the descendants of Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima Zahra. They believe these Imams are the rightful spiritual and political successors to the Prophet.

How does the content of Shia hadith collections compare to Sunni collections like the Kutub al-Sittah?

The content of many hadith found in Shia Islam's "Four Books" is similar to that found in the Sunni "Six Books" (Kutub al-Sittah). The primary difference often lies in the chain of transmission (isnad), with Shia Muslims prioritizing narrations passed down through the Imams.

What are the Kutub al-Sittah?

The Kutub al-Sittah, meaning "The Six Books," are the six major hadith collections highly regarded by Sunni Muslims. These collections are considered authoritative sources of the Prophet Muhammad's traditions within Sunni Islam.

Who are referred to as The Fourteen Infallibles in Twelver Shi'ism?

In Twelver Shi'ism, The Fourteen Infallibles are considered to be the Prophet Muhammad, his daughter Fatimah, and the Twelve Imams. They are believed to be divinely protected from sin and error.

Can you list the Twelve Imams recognized in Twelver Shi'ism?

The Twelve Imams recognized in Twelver Shi'ism are: Ali, Hasan, Husayn, al-Sajjad, al-Baqir, al-Sadiq, al-Kazim, ar-Rida, al-Taqi, al-Naqi, al-Askari, and al-Mahdi. They are considered the spiritual and political successors to the Prophet Muhammad.

What are the five core principles of Twelver Shi'ism mentioned in the text?

The five core principles of Twelver Shi'ism, as mentioned in the text, are Tawhid (Monotheism), Adalah (Justice), Nubuwwah (Prophethood), Imamah (Imamate), and Yawm al-Qiyamah (Judgement Day). These principles form the theological foundation of the Twelver doctrine.

What are some of the 'Other beliefs' associated with Twelver Shi'ism listed?

Other beliefs associated with Twelver Shi'ism include the Imamate of the Family, belief in Angels, the practice of Mourning of Muharram, the concept of Intercession (Tawassul), the Occultation of the Mahdi, Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist), Usul al-fiqh (Principles of Islamic jurisprudence), Ijtihad (independent legal reasoning), Taqlid (following a mujtahid), and Irfan (Gnosticism).

What are the primary practices (Ancillaries of the Faith) within Twelver Shi'ism?

The primary practices, often referred to as the Ancillaries of the Faith, within Twelver Shi'ism include Salat (Prayer), Sawm (Fasting), Hajj (Pilgrimage), Zakat (Charity), Khums (a specific religious tax), Jihad (Striving), Amr bi-l ma'ruf (Commanding what is just), Nahy ani l-Munkar (Forbidding what is evil), Tawalli (Love for the Ahlul Bayt), and Tabarri (Distancing from the enemies of the Ahlul Bayt).

Which cities are considered holy sites within Twelver Shi'ism?

The holy cities within Twelver Shi'ism include Mecca, Medina, Najaf, Karbala, Mashhad, Jerusalem, Samarra, Kadhimiya, and Qom. These cities are significant due to their association with the Prophet Muhammad, the Imams, and important historical events.

What are the main groups within the Ja'fari school of Shia Islam mentioned?

The main groups within the Ja'fari school of Shia Islam mentioned are Usuli, Akhbari, and Shaykhi. These represent different approaches to jurisprudence and the interpretation of hadith.

What are some of the 'Other related sects and groups' mentioned in relation to Shia Islam?

Other related sects and groups mentioned include Alawites, Alevism, Qizilbash, Safaviyya, Bektashism, Malamatiyya, Qalandariyya, Hurufism, Bektashi Order, Galibi, and Ni'matullāhī. These groups often have historical or theological connections to Shia Islam but may differ in specific doctrines or practices.

What are the key elements of Shia jurisprudence and scholarship mentioned?

Key elements of Shia jurisprudence and scholarship mentioned include the Ja'fari school of law, the concept of Marja' (a high-ranking cleric), the Hawza (seminary), titles like Ayatollah, Allamah, Seghatoleslam, and Hojatoleslam, and the principles of Ijtihad (independent legal reasoning).

Besides The Four Books, what other Shia hadith collections are listed?

Other Shia hadith collections listed include The Book of Sulaym ibn Qays, Bihar al-Anwar, Wasā'il al-Shī'a, Reality of Certainty, Nahj al-Balagha, Mafatih al-Jinan, Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, and Al-Amali (of Shaykh Saduq). These collections supplement the Four Books in Shia tradition.

What are the primary sources for ijtihad and jurisprudence in Shia Islam?

The primary sources for ijtihad and jurisprudence in Shia Islam are the Qur'an, the Hadiths of The Infallibles (transmitted through collections like The Four Books), Ijma' (Consensus), and 'Aql (Reason). These sources guide the process of deriving Islamic rulings.

What is the significance of the sidebar navigation boxes in the article?

The sidebar navigation boxes provide structured overviews of related topics within Shia Islam and Hadith literature. They help readers navigate and understand the broader context, including key figures, beliefs, practices, and important texts.

What does the 'See also' section suggest for further reading?

The 'See also' section suggests further reading on the List of Shi'a books and Kutub al-Sittah. These links provide additional resources for exploring Shia literature and the major Sunni hadith collections.

What information is provided in the 'Notes' section regarding Kitab al-Kafi?

The 'Notes' section clarifies that Kitab al-Kafi is divided into three parts: Usul al-Kafi, Furu al-Kafi, and Rawdat al-Kafi. It also mentions that Zaidi Shi'a, unlike other Shia branches, hold Sunni hadith collections in high esteem.

What is the purpose of the 'References' section?

The 'References' section provides citations for the information presented in the article, indicating the sources from which the data was drawn. These references include academic works and scholarly articles, such as those by Moojan Momen and Seyyed Hossein Nasr.

What does the 'Authority control' section indicate?

The 'Authority control' section indicates that the article's subject, The Four Books, is cataloged in external databases, specifically mentioning the Islam Ansiklopedisi. This helps in identifying and linking related information across different knowledge systems.

What does the stub notice at the end of the article signify?

The stub notice signifies that the article is considered incomplete and requires further expansion. It invites readers to contribute by adding more information to enhance the article's content, particularly concerning Islamic studies and book-related topics.

What are the main categories of hadith collections presented in the sidebar navigation?

The sidebar navigation presents hadith collections categorized under Sunni Islam (including the Kutub Al-Sittah and others), Shia Islam (Al-Kutub Al-Arb'ah and others), and Ibadi Islam (Jami Sahih and Tartib al-Musnad). This structure helps differentiate the canonical collections used by various Islamic branches.

What is the significance of the Arabic script text within the article?

The Arabic script text within the article, such as for the names of the books and terms like al-Kutub al-Arba'ah, provides the original language context and authenticity. It is often accompanied by romanized versions for broader accessibility.

How do the Shia collections differ from Sunni collections in terms of transmitter reliability?

Shia collections differ from Sunni collections in their assessment of transmitter reliability. Twelver Shias often deem many Sunni transmitters unreliable due to their perceived political allegiances during early Islamic history, particularly their stance towards Ali ibn Abi Talib and his family, contrasting with Shia emphasis on narrations from the Imams.

What role do the Imams play in the transmission of hadith for Shia Muslims?

For Shia Muslims, the Imams, descendants of Prophet Muhammad through Fatima Zahra, are considered the authoritative interpreters and transmitters of hadith. Traditions passed down through the Imams are generally trusted over those transmitted by individuals outside this lineage.

What is the meaning of the term 'hadith' in the context of Islamic texts?

Hadith refers to traditions or sayings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad, his actions, and his tacit approvals. These narratives are a crucial source of Islamic guidance alongside the Qur'an, and their authenticity is rigorously studied.

What is the distinction between Usul al-Kafi, Furu al-Kafi, and Rawdat al-Kafi?

Usul al-Kafi, Furu al-Kafi, and Rawdat al-Kafi are the three divisions within the larger Kitab al-Kafi collection. Usul typically deals with foundational principles and beliefs, Furu covers jurisprudence and practical laws, and Rawdat contains miscellaneous traditions and narratives.

What does the term 'romanized' refer to in the context of Arabic names?

The term 'romanized' refers to the process of representing Arabic words and names using the Latin alphabet, which is commonly used in English and other Western languages. This allows for easier pronunciation and reading for those unfamiliar with the Arabic script.

What is the significance of the year 329 AH mentioned for Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni?

The year 329 AH (Anno Hegirae, or the Islamic calendar year) indicates the approximate time of death for Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni, the compiler of Kitab al-Kafi. This date places the compilation of this major Shia hadith collection in the early 10th century CE.

What does the term 'canonical' imply when referring to the Four Books?

The term 'canonical' signifies that The Four Books are officially recognized and accepted as authoritative within Shia Islam, particularly Twelver Shi'ism. They are considered the most reliable and comprehensive collections of hadith.

What is the role of 'Ijtihad' in Shia jurisprudence?

Ijtihad is the principle of independent legal reasoning employed by qualified Islamic scholars (mujtahids) to derive rulings from primary sources like the Qur'an and hadith. It is a key component of Shia jurisprudence, allowing for adaptation to new circumstances.

What is 'Taqlid' in the context of Shia Islam?

Taqlid refers to the practice of a Shia Muslim following the legal opinions and interpretations of a living Marja' (a highly ranked cleric) whom they consider qualified to provide such guidance. It represents the practical application of Ijtihad for the general populace.

What does 'Ahlul Bayt' refer to in Shia Islam?

Ahlul Bayt refers to the household of the Prophet Muhammad, specifically including Ali, Fatimah, Hasan, and Husayn, and the subsequent Imams. Shia Muslims believe they are the rightful successors and spiritual guides after the Prophet.

What historical event is mentioned in relation to Muawiya and Ali?

The text mentions that Muawiya waged war against Ali at the Battle of Siffin. This conflict is significant in early Islamic history and contributes to the historical context of Shia views on certain transmitters.

What is the significance of the Battle of Karbala mentioned in the text?

The Battle of Karbala is mentioned as the event where Husayn, the grandson of Muhammad and son of Ali ibn Abi Talib, was martyred. This event is a central tragedy in Shia Islam, deeply commemorated during Muharram.

What is the 'Imamate' in Twelver Shi'a doctrine?

The Imamate in Twelver Shi'a doctrine refers to the belief in the divinely appointed leadership of the Twelve Imams, who are considered the spiritual and political successors to the Prophet Muhammad. They are seen as infallible guides for the Muslim community.

What is 'Wilayat al-Faqih'?

Wilayat al-Faqih, or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist, is a concept in Twelver Shi'ism asserting that qualified jurists should hold political authority in the absence of the Hidden Imam. This principle has significant implications for governance in Shia communities.

What are the 'Six Books' revered by Sunni Muslims?

The 'Six Books' revered by Sunni Muslims are the Kutub al-Sittah, which are considered the most authoritative collections of hadith in Sunni Islam. They include Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Sunan Abi Dawud, Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Sunan al-Nasa'i, and Sunan ibn Majah.

What is the 'Mourning of Muharram' practice?

The Mourning of Muharram is a significant practice in Shia Islam, particularly among Twelvers, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Husayn and his companions at the Battle of Karbala. It involves intense periods of grief, remembrance, and religious gatherings.

The Four Books Wiki: Foundations of Faith: A Scholarly Exposition of the Four Books of Shia Hadith

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Introduction

Canonical Texts of Shia Islam

The Four Books, known in Arabic as Al-Kutub Al-Arb'ah (الكتب الأربعة), represent the foundational canonical collections of hadith (sayings and traditions) within Twelver Shia Islam. These texts are indispensable for understanding Shia jurisprudence, theology, and practice, serving as primary sources for religious rulings and guidance derived from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and his divinely appointed successors, the Imams.

Distinguishing Shia Tradition

While Sunni Muslims rely on collections such as the Kutub al-Sittah (The Six Books), Shia Muslims place particular emphasis on traditions transmitted through the Ahlul Bayt (the Prophet Muhammad's household). This distinction arises from the Shia belief in the Imamate, asserting that leadership and authoritative interpretation of Islam were divinely entrusted to Ali ibn Abi Talib and his descendants. Consequently, Shia scholars prioritize hadith narrated through these infallible Imams, often viewing transmitters associated with opposing political factions with caution.

The Role of Hadith

Hadith literature is crucial in Islam as it complements the Quran, providing detailed explanations, legal interpretations, and practical examples of the Prophet's life and teachings. The Four Books are meticulously compiled works that aim to preserve these authentic traditions, ensuring their accurate transmission across generations. Their study is essential for any serious scholar of Islamic tradition.

The Four Canonical Collections

Overview of the Books

The Four Books are the result of extensive scholarly efforts to compile authentic traditions. Each collection has its unique methodology, scope, and number of hadith, yet together they form the bedrock of Shia hadith scholarship.

Collection	Collector	Approximate Number of Hadith
Kitab al-Kafi	Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni al-Razi (d. 329 AH)	16,199
Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih	Muhammad ibn Babawayh (Al-Shaykh al-Saduq)	9,044
Tahdhib al-Ahkam	Shaykh Muhammad Tusi	13,590
Al-Istibsar	Shaykh Muhammad Tusi	5,511
Total		44,344

Historical and Theological Context

Transmission and Reliability

Shia Muslims adhere to a rigorous methodology for evaluating the authenticity and reliability of hadith. They prioritize chains of transmission (isnad) that lead back to the Prophet Muhammad through the Imams of his household. This approach contrasts with Sunni methodologies, which may include transmitters who historically opposed the Ahlul Bayt. The compilers of the Four Books were meticulous in selecting traditions they deemed sound, based on the trustworthiness of the narrators and their adherence to the principles of Shia doctrine.

Significance in Jurisprudence

The Four Books are not merely historical records; they are active sources of Islamic law (fiqh) and theological reasoning. Jurists (fuqaha) derive rulings on matters of worship (ibadah), transactions (mu'amalat), and ethical conduct from the hadith contained within these collections. The detailed nature of these traditions allows for nuanced legal opinions and a comprehensive understanding of Islamic obligations.

Relationship with Sunni Collections

While distinct in their preferred chains of transmission, the content of many hadith in the Four Books overlaps significantly with that found in Sunni collections like the Kutub al-Sittah. The primary divergence lies in the attribution and validation of the narrators. This shared textual basis underscores the common roots of Islamic tradition, while the specific Shia emphasis highlights their unique theological and political perspectives on leadership after the Prophet.

Key Compilers and Their Contributions

Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni

Considered the most authoritative compiler, Al-Kulayni (d. 329 AH) authored Kitab al-Kafi. This monumental work is divided into sections on principles of religion (Usul al-Kafi) and branches of jurisprudence (Furu al-Kafi), along with a section on traditions concerning the afterlife (Rawdat al-Kafi). It is highly regarded for its comprehensive coverage and the perceived reliability of its narrators.

Muhammad ibn Babawayh (Al-Shaykh al-Saduq)

Al-Shaykh al-Saduq (d. 381 AH) compiled Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih (literally, "He Whom the Jurist Does Not Need"). This collection is structured thematically to provide practical guidance for religious practice, omitting chains of transmission for brevity and direct applicability, assuming the authenticity of the included hadith based on his scholarly judgment.

Shaykh Muhammad Tusi

Shaykh Tusi (d. 460 AH) is credited with two major works: Tahdhib al-Ahkam and Al-Istibsar. Tahdhib al-Ahkam is a comprehensive collection that systematically addresses legal issues and resolves apparent contradictions among hadith. Al-Istibsar focuses specifically on hadith that might seem contradictory, aiming to reconcile them and clarify their meanings, making it a more focused work.

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References

Karimov, N.R., 2019. SOME BRIEF INFORMATION ON AL-SIHAH AL-SITTA. Theoretical & Applied Science, (5), pp.611-620.

Momen, Moojan, Introduction to Shi'i Islam, Yale University Press, 1985, p.28-31

Seyyed Hossein Nasr, A young Muslim's guide to the modern world, KAZI Publications, Inc Chicago, IL, 2003, p. 19

A full list of references for this article are available at the The Four Books Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice for Scholars

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. It is intended strictly for academic and informational purposes, providing a scholarly overview of the Four Books of Shia Islam. The content has been refined for clarity and educational value, adhering to the persona of a university professor.

This is not a substitute for primary source study or religious authority. The information presented here is not intended to provide definitive religious rulings or theological guidance. Readers are strongly encouraged to consult original texts, engage with qualified Islamic scholars, and refer to authoritative religious interpretations for a comprehensive and accurate understanding of Shia Islam and its hadith literature.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided. Users should exercise critical academic judgment and consult authoritative sources for religious and scholarly matters.

Foundations of Faith

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Introduction ℹ️

📜 Canonical Texts of Shia Islam

🌍 Distinguishing Shia Tradition

🖋️ The Role of Hadith

The Four Canonical Collections 📚

📖 Overview of the Books

Historical and Theological Context 🕌

⚖️ Transmission and Reliability

💡 Significance in Jurisprudence

🤝 Relationship with Sunni Collections

Key Compilers and Their Contributions 🖋️

👤 Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni

👤 Muhammad ibn Babawayh (Al-Shaykh al-Saduq)

👤 Shaykh Muhammad Tusi

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice for Scholars

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Canonical Texts of Shia Islam

Distinguishing Shia Tradition

The Role of Hadith

The Four Canonical Collections

Overview of the Books

Historical and Theological Context

Transmission and Reliability

Significance in Jurisprudence

Relationship with Sunni Collections

Key Compilers and Their Contributions

Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni

Muhammad ibn Babawayh (Al-Shaykh al-Saduq)

Shaykh Muhammad Tusi

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice for Scholars