Truth and Probability: New Scientific Approaches

A scientific seminar on the topic “The Significance of Ahad Hadith as Evidence in Aqeedah” was held at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center. During the seminar, the renowned Turkish scholar, Professor Dr. Hamza Bakri from Istanbul University, delivered a lecture to the staff of the Center and the Imam Maturidi International Scientific Research Center, participants of the Imam Bukhari International Scholarship Program, students of the Hadith Institute and researchers of Islamic sciences.

The focus of the seminar was on analyzing the importance of “Khabarul Ahad” – that is, a narration conveyed by a single person or a minority – and its role in matters of faith and logic. Professor Bakri provided a deep analysis of the scientific discussions surrounding this topic, shedding light on both its historical and theoretical aspects.

– There is consensus among scholars regarding the practical application of Ahad narrations as evidence. However, its use in doctrinal matters remains a contentious issue – stated the scholar.

The complexity of the scientific debates on this topic is linked to the varying definitions of the terms “evidence” and “faith” in different contexts, as well as the differences between the views that classify Ahad narrations as “categorical” or “probabilistic” (based on assumption or estimation).

One of the key points emphasized by Professor Bakri was that the scientific method in aqeedah should be based on caution, thoroughness, and consistency. The lecturer stressed the importance of evaluating each piece of information in aqeedah based on its scholarly weight and evidence, without rejecting all information in aqeedah simply due to the rejection of Ahad narrations.

According to the professor, in aqeedah, Ahad narrations can be used in certain cases, specifically when they reach a “probabilistic” level of certainty. This requires not only faith but also belief based on knowledge and research.

The event provided an opportunity for scholars and students to familiarize themselves with new perspectives and scientific approaches on the topic. The analysis and conclusions of the scholar, who possesses vast experience in Islamic philosophy and theology (aqeedah), were highly beneficial.