The Role of Hadith in Tafsir

The Hadiths plays an important role in Explaining Quran (Tafsir).  The Quran is the words of Allah, revealed as a guide for humanity. Since the Prophet was the best teacher of the Quran, his explanations provide the most authentic understanding of its verses. 

Here is how in simple terms:

Clarifying Quranic Meanings:

 The Quran sometimes uses general and brief words. Hadiths helps explain these words clearly. Example: The Quran says, “Give Zakat” but does not specify amounts. Hadith (Sahih Bukhari) explains the rate of Zakat.

Defining Unclear Words:

 Some Quran words are rare and have multiple meanings. Hadiths clarifies them. Example: “Khamr” (intoxicants) is forbidden. Hadiths explains that "every intoxicant is forbidden" including drugs not known in the Prophet's time.

Revealing the Occasion of Revelation (Asbab al-Nuzul):

  Many verses were revealed due to specific events. Hadith shares these stories. Example: Surah Al-Lahab curses Abu Lahab. Hadith tells us he was the Prophet's uncle who openly opposed Islam.

Explaining Parables and Metaphors:

 The Quran uses parables; Hadith makes them clear. Example: The Quran warns of “a Fire whose fuel is men and stones”. Hadith explains that “stones” refers to idols worshipped besides Allah.

Giving Practical Examples:

 The Prophet lives the Quran, so his life (Sunnah) is like a real-life Tafsir. Example: The Quran speaks of Honesty; Hadith shows how the Prophet was Always Honest.

Important Rule:

Not every Hadith is used in Tafsir. Scholars prioritize:

1. Sahih  (Authentic)  Hadith
2. Hasan  (Good)  Hadith if no Sahih Exist
3. Weak  (Daeef)  Hadith only for encouraging good deeds, not for rulings.

Hadith is essential for proper Quranic understanding. Without it, Muslims risk misinterpretation, incomplete knowledge, or even deviation.

As the Prophet said:

I leave behind two things- the Quran and my Sunnah (Hadith)- If you hold to them, you will never go astray.

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