Meaning of the term ‘Munkarul Hadith’

Question

What does it mean when it is said that a narrator is ‘Munkarul Hadith’?

Answer

This term is used to portray weakness in a narrator. It is generally a level between extremely weak and slightly weak.

(Refer: Fathul Mughith, vol. 2 pg. 292, Tadribur Rawi, vol. 4 pg. 194)

Note:

1) Imam Bukhari (rahimahullah) has his own definition of this term, by which he actually refers to extreme weakness in the narrator.

2) Similarly, certain earlier Muhaddithun (mutaqaddimun) have other usages for this term.

3) The above is merely an answer to the question provided. One who is unqualified, should not seek to apply this and/or draw conclusions on related issues independently.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar