Sectarian fanaticism in the science of men: a historical study، jurisprudential implications، and reform mechanisms

Abstract

This study، using a descriptive and analytical approach، examines the phenomenon of sectarian fanaticism in the science of hadith narrators (rijal) as one of the fundamental challenges facing hadith studies. The results demonstrate that sectarian bias in the authentication or weakening of narrators—particularly in the sources of both groups (Imami and Sunni)—has led to the distortion of hadith rulings، the fragmentation of authentic chains of transmission، and the weakening of the scientific credibility of this discipline. By analyzing applied models (such as the differences in the authentication of narrators such as Ziyad ibn al-Mundhir and Ikrimah al-Barbari) and critiquing the influence of political and social factors on hadith rulings، the study proposes a practical mechanism for establishing a non-sectarian digital platform for evaluating narrators based on neutral criteria (truthfulness and accuracy of narration). This project utilizes digital technology، in partnership with leading academic institutions (such as Al-Azhar، Qom، and Najaf)، to revive the true role of the science of hadith in refining the Islamic hadith heritage.

This research has demonstrated that sectarian bias can distort the science of hadith transmitters from its original purpose—which is "the objective evaluation of narrators based on truthfulness and accuracy"—turning it into a tool for consolidating sectarian hegemony. The analysis of applied examples, such as the stark differences in the assessments of narrators like Ziyad ibn al-Mundhir (exaggerated/trustworthy) and Ikrimah al-Barbari (trustworthy/weak), clearly illustrates the destructive impact of sectarian biases and political interference (such as the Abbasid government's pressure to discredit Shi'a narrators).