The Historical Process of al-Jarh -al-Ta'dil Criticism as Gossip

Abstract

It is important to investigate the narrators for the functionality of the al-jarh-ta'dil system, which has been implemented since the first century, to ascertain the correctness of the adiths in the adith history. However, in adith sources, some information is conveyed stating that the criticism that these scholars gossip has been made against the munakkid (critic) scholars from the beginning of the second century of Hijra when the rijal criticism began systematically. Although it is observed that since the first half of the second century of the Hijra, the most intense criticism of gossip focused on Shu'ba Ibn alajjaj due to his regular jarh-ta'dil activities, several examples of other critic muhaddiths are encountered in the following years. It is seen that the critic muhaddiths have shown different responses to these reactions according to the situation of the interlocutor. The questions asked by those engaged in the adith regarding this topic are provided with answers more in the scope of this work's necessity, and it has been observed that there is an attitude that does not take into consideration the negative critiques of other groups in general. Also, it is necessary to mention that the muhaddiths were taking some precautions to avoid falling into the sin of gossip in the face of criticism directed towards them. This study evaluates the beginning, interlocutors, and effects of these criticisms throughout the adith history.