ḤADĪTH OF SELF-KNOWING BETWEEN SUFIS AND ḤADĪTH SCHOLARS

Abstract

This paper examines the "Ḥadīth of Self-knowing," often quoted as “Whoever knows himself, knows his Lord,” a saying that has profoundly influenced Islamic thought, particularly within Sufi and Ḥadīth scholarship. Tracing its origins through Takhrīj methodology, the study evaluates its authenticity, revealing a divergence between Sufi mystics and Ḥadīth scholars. While Sufis authenticate the narration through kashf (spiritual disclosure), dreams, and ilhām (divine inspiration), Ḥadīth scholars challenge its legitimacy based on classical methodologies. Despite these differences, both groups recognize the spiritual and ethical significance of the saying. The research also deals the interpretative approaches, highlighting Sufis' metaphysical and mystical readings that emphasize self-awareness as a pathway to Allah, contrasted with Ḥadīth scholars’ focus on practical applications for broader Muslim society. This comparative analysis underscores the distinct methodologies and epistemologies shaping Islamic perspectives on self-knowledge and divine understanding.