Five conditions
Continuity, integrity, accuracy and freedom from defects
The chain must be connected; transmitters must be upright and precise; the report must not contradict stronger transmission or contain a damaging hidden defect.
Irregularity and hidden defects explain why a list of apparently reliable narrators is not enough.
An accepted level
Hasan is evidence
When a transmitter’s precision is lighter but the other conditions remain, the report can be Hasan and used as evidence in rulings.
Independent routes can strengthen one another when the weakness permits it. Repeated copies of a liar’s report do not make it authentic.
Read carefully
Boundaries of understanding and application
Strength variesAccepted reports have different levels of strength according to routes and supporting evidence.
Authenticity and meaning differJurists may agree on authenticity but differ over interpretation and application.
Grading involves scholarly judgmentSpecialists may differ because they know different routes or assess evidence differently.
Lesson summary
What to remember
- 1Sahih has five conditions.
- 2Hasan is accepted.
- 3Not every weakness can be repaired by more routes.
- 4Attribute a grading to its scholar.
Quick questions
What are the five conditions?+
A connected chain, upright transmitters, precise transmission, no irregularity and no damaging hidden defect.
Can Hasan be used as evidence?+
Yes. It belongs to the accepted categories.