Can Probable Knowledge Be Part of Religion? A Critical Examination

❖ Introduction​

The assertion that probable knowledge (ظن) cannot be part of religion has been a point of contention among certain groups. This article critically examines this claim, highlighting the role of probable knowledge in Islamic jurisprudence and daily religious practices.

❖ Understanding Probable Knowledge (ظن) in Islamic Context​

Definition and Linguistic Perspective
In the Arabic language, "ظن" encompasses meanings ranging from conjecture to strong belief. Its interpretation depends on context and accompanying indicators.

Probable Knowledge in the Quran
The Quran employs "ظن" in various contexts, sometimes denoting certainty and at other times indicating doubt. For instance, in certain verses, "ظن" reflects a strong conviction about meeting the Lord, while in others, it portrays baseless assumptions.

❖ The Role of Hadith and Probable Knowledge​

Compilation and Transmission of Hadith
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged the documentation and dissemination of his sayings and actions. While the Quran was compiled under divine guidance, the Hadith were preserved through meticulous efforts by the companions and subsequent scholars.

Classification of Hadith

Islamic scholars categorized Hadith based on the reliability and number of narrators:

• Mutawatir: Narrated by numerous trustworthy individuals, leading to certainty.
• Ahad: Reported by a few narrators, resulting in probable knowledge.

Despite the varying degrees of certainty, both categories have been integral to Islamic jurisprudence.

❖ Probable Knowledge in Islamic Jurisprudence​

Judicial Decisions Based on Probable Knowledge

Islamic courts often rely on witness testimonies and circumstantial evidence, which inherently involve probable knowledge. These decisions are considered valid and binding within the framework of Shariah.

Daily Religious Practices
In daily worship, such as prayer, individuals may rely on probable knowledge to determine the number of units performed, rectifying uncertainties through prescribed methods like prostration of forgetfulness.

❖ Addressing the Objections​

Objection: Only certain knowledge should constitute religion.

Response: While the Quran provides certain knowledge, the Sunnah, preserved through Hadith, complements it by offering practical applications. The integration of both ensures a comprehensive understanding of Islamic teachings.

Objection: Hadith are based on probable knowledge and thus cannot be part of religion.

Response: The meticulous methodologies employed by Hadith scholars, including authentication processes and classification systems, have ensured the reliability of these narrations. Their acceptance across generations underscores their significance in Islamic tradition.

❖ Conclusion​

Probable knowledge, when derived through rigorous scholarly methods, holds a legitimate place in Islam. The harmonious coexistence of the Quran and Hadith, encompassing both certain and probable knowledge, forms the bedrock of Islamic faith and practice.