Question

Is there any proof in the Hadith for tashkil (formalising of jamats) and writing names of brothers to go in the path of Allah Ta’ala (Like is the practice of the brothers of Tabligh)?

Answer

While studying Sahih Bukhari under my esteemed Teacher; Al-Muhaddith Shaykh Fadlur Rahman Al-A’zami (may Allah protect him) he pointed out the following Hadith as support for your query:
Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah Ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) reports that a Sahabi  once asked Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) in a gathering:

“My name has been written in a particular army, but My wife has [intended to] set out for Hajj.”

Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) replied:

“Go and join your wife for Hajj.”

(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 3006)

This Hadith indeed does show that the Sahabah would arrange the armies/jamats in an orderly manner, as well as write the names of the individuals that are in one army/Jamat.

It also supports the habit of checking the suitability (tafaqqud) of those who intend going out in Allah’s path.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,

Answered by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar