Riba in various hadith compilations : a critical analysi

Abstract

This study attempts to collate the narrations pertaining to riba from the wider ÍadÊth literature by categorizing them thematically in an effort to differentiate the authentic from unauthentic ones. It is undertaken in the present context wherein ribÉ has been discussed repeatedly in connection with contemporary debates on Islamic Banking and Finance. Since the Qur’Én does not elaborate the definition and further details of riba, this thorough study of narrations record in vast ÍadÊth compilations that shed light into the real import of ribÉ. The study also analyses each narration and the opinion of early and later scholars with regard to them. It reveals that some misunderstanding still prevail in respect to definition, classification and severity of ribÉ due to the lack of a proper understanding and analysis of the entire narrations through examining their respective authenticity and reliability. Therefore, this study highlights the weak and unreliable narrations which lead to such misconceptions. Moreover, it exposes the great dearth for reclassifying ribÉ in order to eliminate the perennial confusions prevailing in this respect.