Abstract:
The present article analyzes critical thinking in Abaqat al-Anwar, the prominent work of the late Mir Hamed Hussain, and examines his scientific critiques and arguments against opposing views, particularly those of Dehlavi. This research emphasizes the importance of adhering to research principles and scientific debate, especially in the critique of religious traditions. Specifically, a comparison of the research and argumentative methods in Abaqat al-Anwar and Dehlavi’s critiques regarding traditions such as Hadith al-Thaqalayn and Hadith al-Nur reveals fundamental differences in adherence to scientific rules and fair principles in analysis and critique. In writing Abaqat al-Anwar, Mir Hamed Hussain, through the use of reliable sources, emphasis on precision and scientific clarity, and acceptance of truth in both affirmation and refutation, presents an example of critical thinking based on scientific fairness and impartiality. In contrast, Dehlavi, in his critiques, often examines traditions selectively and one-sidedly, avoiding a thorough and precise examination of Shia arguments. This article ultimately highlights the importance of employing critical thinking in religious research and critiques, emphasizing the necessity of precision and respect for reliable sources and comprehensive analyses.
Keywords: Mir Hamed Hussain, Abaqat al-Anwar, critical thinking, scientific critique, Dehlavi, Hadith al-Thaqalayn, Hadith al-Nur.
Introduction:
In the world of science and research, adhering to the principles of scholarly debate and academic ethics is of paramount importance for every researcher and scholar. These principles not only ensure fairness in discussions and critiques but also contribute to scientific progress and positive influence within the academic community. Alongside these principles, integrity in citing sources, respect for diverse perspectives, and a commitment to truth are fundamental pillars of scientific research. Observing these principles not only enhances an individual’s scholarly standing but also fosters a healthy and constructive environment for the exchange of ideas and thoughts.
Mir Hamed Hussain, the esteemed author of Abaqat al-Anwar, is one such figure who meticulously adhered to these principles in his works. In his scholarly debates
and critiques, he consistently maintained decorum and respect for his opponents, never crossing the boundaries of fairness and ethics. With a deep commitment to truth, he never distorted any statement or viewpoint and always paid careful attention to accuracy and integrity in citing sources. These qualities not only elevate the scholarly and ethical value of his work but also reflect his intellectual and cultural character, making him a model for researchers and scholars in the realm of religious debates and discussions. In this article, we will examine some of the principles that Mir Hamed Hussain adhered to in his methods of argumentation and reasoning.
Adherence to the Etiquette of Debate and Research Principles
Adherence to Scholarly Etiquette in Abaqat al-Anwar
Mir Hamed Hussain, in his book Abaqat al-Anwar, not only meticulously critiqued the arguments and contentions of his opponents but also upheld this precision and
integrity in the process of scholarly debates. This characteristic holds significant importance in academic works, as the accurate citation of sources and maintaining integrity in presenting information form the foundation of any credible scientific research. In religious debates, which are often accompanied by particular sensitivities, if the outcomes of critiques are based on incorrect or distorted information, the scholarly credibility of the research is called into question, and the work’s validity is diminished
a) Why is this characteristic one of the most important scientific principles?
Accurate citation and maintaining integrity in critique are fundamental principles in the study of science. If a researcher or debater resorts to distorting information or using incorrect data to prove their point, even if done indirectly, the scientific and ethical credibility of their research is lost. In religious sciences, where precision is especially crucial when critiquing the views and arguments of opponents, this characteristic becomes even more significant. For example, in the book ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, Mir Hamid Husayn meticulously cites each argument from the Sunni tradition, providing complete references and details. In critiquing each narration, in addition to fully quoting the content, he also pays attention to its etymology and authenticity, clearly highlighting any scientific weaknesses in the sources if they exist.
b) The Scientific and Ethical Importance of This Characteristic
The first aspect that makes this characteristic a scientific principle is that maintaining integrity in citing sources ensures that discussions and exchanges of ideas in the academic sphere are conducted correctly and based on facts. Without precision in quoting sources and providing accurate documentation, scientific debates can devolve into distortion and misguidance. This not only diminishes public trust in scientific sources but also leads to many conclusions and inferences being based on incorrect information.
On the other hand, in religious debates, which often occur among different groups with varying perspectives, accuracy in citing sources and arguments not only enhances the credibility of the work but also strengthens the legitimacy and ethics of the debate. When a researcher or debater adheres to scientific principles in their critiques, it demonstrates that their goal is solely to uncover the truth, rather than distorting facts to win the debate.
Commitment to scholarly etiquette, especially when critiquing and analyzing opposing arguments, is a characteristic prominently observed in the book ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’. This characteristic not only increases the scientific credibility of the work but also holds significant ethical importance in religious debates. By adhering to these principles, Mir Hamid Husayn effectively and substantively critiques opposing views while remaining committed to the ethical standards of debate.
The Ethical Characteristics of the Author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’
The author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ possessed immense forbearance, patience, and self-control. He responded to insults with politeness, reacted to transgressions with gentleness, and confronted oppression with justice and fairness.
The principles to which Mir Hamid Husayn adhered.
First Principle: Accurate Citation and Integrity in Research
The Necessity of Accurately Quoting the Opponent’s Statements
One of the principles of research is that the researcher must accurately and faithfully quote the opponent’s statements regarding the issue under discussion, without any additions or omissions. After a complete and accurate citation of the opponent’s words, the researcher should present their response in the best possible manner, highlighting weaknesses and points worthy of critique.
The Approach of the Author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ in Quoting and Critiquing
Shia scholars have also employed this method in their research, and the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ follows the same approach. At the beginning of his discussion in the introduction of the book, he provides a complete quote from Dehlawi, the author of ‘Al-Tuhfa al-Ithna Ashariyya’, without omitting or cutting any part of it. Moreover, he references the explanations and additions Dehlawi included in the margins of his work, whether they are arguments, evidence, or elaborations.
Utilizing Methods of Refutation and Constructive Responses
Then, Mir Hamid Husayn (may Allah have mercy on him) employs various methods, such as refutation, opposition, or constructive responses, to invalidate and counter the arguments. However, the Sunni scholars did not adhere to this principle.
Second Principle: Using the Opponent’s Reliable Sources
The Failure of Sunni Scholars to Adhere to Research Principles
In critiquing the Hadith of Thaqalayn, Dehlawi attempts to respond to the Shia argument regarding the hadith in which the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) said: “I am leaving among you two precious things: the Book of Allah and my progeny, my Ahl al-Bayt. If you hold fast to them, you will never go astray.” However, he not only disregards the Shia’s method of reasoning from this hadith but also completely neglects a thorough examination of the hadith’s meaning. The Shia, based on this hadith, emphasize the necessity of holding fast to the Ahl al-Bayt alongside the Quran, considering it evidence for the authority and special status of the Ahl al-Bayt in the eyes of Allah and the Prophet.
Nevertheless, Dehlawi, in his critique of this hadith, makes no reference to this Shia argument. This indicates that he does not follow the proper and fair principles of scholarly research. In fact, selectively using the hadith and ignoring the opponent’s arguments not only undermines academic integrity but also calls into question the credibility and validity of the critique. Such an approach strays far from the fundamental principles of scientific and religious debate, as it seeks to advance specific agendas without considering the facts and reasoning of the opposing side.
This behavior reflects a disregard for the principles of scholarly debate and involves an implicit distortion of content. In reality, such critiques often fail to advance scientific discourse and instead lead to endless conflicts, polluting the academic environment rather than fostering intellectual growth and refinement.
Failure to Address the Shia Argument in the Hadith of Light
In the Hadith of Light, the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) said: “I and Ali were created from one light.” In critiquing this hadith, Dehlawi states: “This hadith does not provide evidence for what the Imamiyyah (Shia) claim.” However, what is overlooked here is that Dehlawi makes no reference to how the Shia derive their argument from this hadith. The Shia consider this hadith as evidence for the special wilayah (authority) of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) and his unique spiritual connection with the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family), viewing it as proof of the elevated status of the Ahl al-Bayt.
Instead, Dehlawi simply dismisses the hadith without addressing how the Shia rely on it. This approach is not only unscientific but also represents a form of oversimplification and outright rejection, lacking any effort to understand or thoroughly examine the opponent’s reasoning.
The failure to address the Shia argument in the Hadith of Light demonstrates that in religious and scholarly debates, superficial and one-sided engagement with the subject matter can lead to misunderstandings and incorrect preconceptions. Critiques that do not delve into the depth of the issue and only view it from a single perspective cannot contribute to scientific or religious progress; instead, they only lead to further misguidance.
The Necessity of Using Sources Accepted by the Opponent
One of the fundamental principles in research and scholarly debate is the use of sources accepted by the opponent. This means that a researcher, when examining the authenticity of a subject or a hadith, must rely on sources that the opponent themselves consider reliable, rather than arbitrarily selecting sources that suit their own preferences. In religious debates between Shia and Sunni Muslims, this principle holds particular importance because using the opponent’s accepted sources ensures that critiques are fair and accurate.
For example, if Sunni scholars cite a specific hadith, Shia scholars should use the same sources and base their analysis on those texts. This approach not only lends greater credibility to Shia critiques but also prevents accusations of distortion or selective use of sources.
Using sources emphasized by the opponent fosters an atmosphere of respect and fairness in scientific and religious discussions. In fact, this method demonstrates respect for the principles of research and scientific thinking, which in turn enhances the quality of debates and religious discussions. Ignoring this principle can lead to greater division and a loss of trust between the parties, as well as missed opportunities for mutual understanding and collaboration.
Third Principle: Stating the Truth and Accepting It in Both Argumentation and Critique
Accepting the Truth in Both Proof and Refutation
In the book ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, the author strives with scientific precision and clarity to present the truth in all its various dimensions. This approach is not only important when engaging with opponents but also in examining different texts and narrations. When presenting arguments to the opposing side, the author never hesitates to fully and accurately cite narrations, always detailing them meticulously. This transparency and commitment to truth through the precise citation of various sources and references demonstrate respect for scientific principles and reflect the author’s dedication to seeking the truth. Conversely, when the opposing side presents a hadith, the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ follows the same approach, citing the hadith in its entirety along with its references. This method not only holds scientific credibility but also enables readers to easily examine the sources and gain a more accurate understanding of the subject.
The precise and well-documented critiques of the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ have established him as one of the most prominent commentators and critics of hadith. This approach reflects a deep scientific mindset and a lack of bias, allowing readers to analyze and evaluate narrations from a comprehensive and fair perspective, understanding them from various angles.
Acknowledging Hadith Sources from Sunni Scholars
One of the prominent characteristics of the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ is that he never overlooks facts during the critique process. He does not shy away from citing the authentic chains of narrations that Sunni scholars rely on. Particularly when critiquing the arguments of opponents, such as when addressing Dehlawi’s citation of the hadith “Follow the two after me: Abu Bakr and Umar,” he never ignores or distorts the hadith. Instead, he meticulously and respectfully presents the entire chain of narrators, introducing it as being narrated by five reputable companions. This approach demonstrates honesty and transparency in dealing with sources. In fact, through this practice, the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ exemplifies scientific fairness and professionalism. In the academic and research world, such an approach can be regarded as a standard for critiquing and evaluating religious texts, as scholarship must be based on truth and available evidence, avoiding negligence or unscientific alterations. Thus, he not only emphasizes his own integrity but also enhances the knowledge and understanding of readers by clarifying the sources and narrators of the hadith.
Accepting Realities and Refuting Arguments
The author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ accepts realities and employs a scientific and precise method to analyze and refute the arguments of opponents. After acknowledging the authentic chains of narrations, he proceeds to evaluate them in greater detail. For example, when critiquing a hadith cited by Sunni scholars, he relies on their authoritative sources such as Al-Musannaf by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Al-Musnad by Ahmad, Sahih al-Tirmidhi, and Al-Mustadrak by al-Hakim. These are among the most reliable and primary hadith sources of Sunni Islam, which the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ uses to meticulously analyze the chain and text of the hadith. This approach not only lends credibility to his critiques but also allows readers to become aware of the authenticity of the sources and the care taken in selecting them.
Thus, the refutation of arguments and the analysis of chains of narrators conducted by the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ are not only based on scientific principles but also supported by the most reliable sources. This fosters a precise and scholarly perspective among readers. Such a meticulous and professional approach ensures that the truth remains the focal point while preventing distortions or grave errors in critiques.
Critiquing Sunni Arguments and Their Lack of Adherence to Research Principles
In critiquing Sunni arguments, the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ observes that some of them fail to adhere to the principles and rules of research. For example, Dehlawi, in his critique of the Hadith of Thaqalayn, cites only a portion of the hadith and neglects to mention the number of its narrators, clearly violating research principles. While he references a brief phrase from the hadith, he avoids mentioning that this hadith has been narrated by more than twenty companions. Such disregard for authentic chains and narrators prevents the true essence of the hadith from being properly understood and distorts its genuine meaning. In the science of hadith, it is essential to accept and analyze all aspects of a hadith, including the number of narrators and the reliability of its chains. Therefore, it appears that Dehlawi, in this critique, was unable to adhere to scientific and research principles. This point, when compared to the scientific and meticulous approach of the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, who transparently presents all chains and details, clearly highlights the differences in methodology and the adherence to research principles in both approaches.
Individuals Who Narrated the Hadith of Thaqalayn
The authenticity and reliability of the Hadith of Thaqalyn are evident through its numerous narrations by various companions. Among these companions are prominent figures such as Amir al-Mu’minin Ali (peace be upon him), Jabir ibn Abdullah al-Ansari, Zayd ibn Arqam, Abu Sa’id al-Khudri, Hudhayfah ibn Usayd, Khuzaymah ibn Thabit, and other great personalities. The number of narrators is so significant that it reaches the level of tawatur (mass transmission), not only among Shia scholars but also among Sunni scholars. In fact, when such a large number of narrators report a hadith, it is no longer considered a personal narration but is recognized as a definitive truth due to its tawatur. This point should have been seriously considered in Sunni critiques, but it is often overlooked. The author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, relying on such evidence and citing the names of reliable narrators, demonstrates that the Hadith of Thaqalyn is widely transmitted (mutawatir) in various Sunni sources, leaving no room for doubt regarding its authenticity.
Textual Distortions in Sunni Narrations
One of the key points in the critiques presented by the author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ is his attention to potential distortions in Sunni narrations. Dehlawi, when citing the Hadith of Thaqalyn from certain sources, intentionally or mistakenly omitted a portion of the text. While in reliable Sunni sources such as Sahih al-Tirmidhi and Musnad Ahmad, the hadith is recorded in its entirety, including an additional phrase that specifically states: “My Ahl al-Bayt, and these two will never separate until they meet me at the Hawd (Pool).” The omission of this crucial part of the hadith not only appears to be a textual distortion but also diminishes the precise meaning of the hadith and alters its core concepts. The author of ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, through his scholarly precision and meticulous analysis of such distortions, ensures that readers become aware of the issues in textual narrations and can gain an accurate understanding of the narrations. This highlights the importance of accuracy and integrity in narrating hadith and analyzing texts.
Critical Thinking in ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’: Lessons from Scholarly Critique and Mir Hamid’s Arguments Against Dehlawi
Text Analysis Based on Critical Thinking
Critical thinking refers to the precise, fair, and unbiased analysis of information and sources. This type of thinking plays a key role in the critique and analysis of hadiths and religious texts, as it enables the researcher to examine various aspects of a subject without prejudice and avoid fragmenting or distorting information. In this text, two different approaches to critiquing hadiths and scholarly research are examined: one by the late Mir Hamid in ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’ and the other by Dehlawi. Each of these approaches, in its own way, demonstrates the value and importance of critical thinking or the lack thereof.
The Scientific and Precise Method of the Late Mir Hamid
In authoring ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, the late Mir Hamid, following critical thinking, consistently used reliable sources with precision and transparency. He never feared accepting the truth and always provided complete and accurate citations of chains of narrators and hadiths. He transparently introduces all sources to the audience so that individuals can arrive at more precise analyses themselves.
In critical thinking, one of the fundamental principles is that an individual must utilize all available sources and evidence and analyze them meticulously. In other words, the primary goal of critical thinking is to arrive at the truth without acting on preconceptions or biases. The late Mir Hamid, by presenting all sources and his scholarly analyses, not only distances himself from distortion and inaccuracy but also enables the audience to examine the subjects more carefully and reach their own conclusions.
Dehlawi’s Approach and the Neglect of Critical Thinking Principles
In contrast, Dehlawi, in his critique of the Hadith of Thaqalyn and other hadiths from Sunni sources, clearly does not adhere to the principles of research and critical thinking. In some cases, by selectively quoting hadiths and ignoring the arguments of the opposing side, his critiques lack depth and scholarly precision. For example, in his critique of the Hadith of Thaqalyn, he avoids mentioning the numerous narrators of the hadith, even though it has been narrated by more than twenty companions, which significantly enhances its credibility. Failing to address such details not only weakens the critique but also casts doubt on the validity of Dehlawi’s arguments.
In critical thinking, neglecting reliable sources or distorting information not only undermines the credibility of the critique but also misleads the audience and creates further gaps in understanding the truth. Such behavior contradicts scientific and research principles, as critical thinking requires all evidence and sources to be meticulously examined, with no important information overlooked.
Examining the Importance of Sources Accepted by the Opponent
Another key principle in critical thinking is the use of reliable and accepted sources from the opposing side. In scholarly and religious critiques, a thorough examination of primary sources and references that the opponent also considers valid demonstrates fairness and precision in analysis. The late Mir Hamid, in ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, respects Sunni sources and bases his critiques on their reliable references, whereas Dehlawi completely disregards these principles, relying only on sources that align with his own views.
This highlights the importance of impartiality and fairness in analysis. In critical thinking, one must be able to utilize all available sources and present critiques based
on documented and reliable evidence. This approach fosters scientific progress and prevents bias and one-sided perspectives.
Conclusion
Based on the above analysis, it can be said that critical thinking, as a scientific and rational approach, is of great importance in analyzing hadiths and religious texts. A school or method grounded in the principles of critical thinking is trustworthy and worthy of study and research. In contrast, a school based on distortion, selectivity, and deception will naturally face fundamental problems in scientific thought and critique. In this context, the late Mir Hamid, in ‘Abaqat al-Anwar’, by adhering to the principles of critical thinking and applying scholarly precision in critiquing hadiths and sources, has provided accurate and transparent analyses that contribute to the advancement of scientific and religious understanding. On the other hand, Dehlawi, by neglecting many principles of research and scientific critique, fails to properly analyze hadiths, and his critiques lack credibility and scholarly precision.
The Support of Amir al-Mu’minin: A Call to Share the Truth
If this writing serves to enlighten and support Amir al-Mu’minin Ali (peace be upon him), then sharing and disseminating it is also a form of supporting him. We kindly ask our dear readers to share this article with others and respectfully express their opinions in the comments. We also invite our esteemed opponents to share their perspectives so that we can engage in a constructive and scholarly dialogue that helps clarify the truth. Please stay tuned for the upcoming parts.
*Inspired by the noble book *Nafahat al-Azhar* by Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Milani*
Author: Hamed Sarem
