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Contrary to popular opinion, the bulk of Islamic law does not come from the Qur’an but rather from hadith, first-hand reports of the prophet Muhammad’s words and deeds, passed from generation to generation. However, with varying accounts often only committed to paper a century after the death of Muhammad, Islamic scholars, past and present, have been faced with complex questions of historical authenticity.

Informative and accessible, this wide-ranging introduction provides a detailed exploration of the collection and criticism of hadith and examines the controversy surrounding its role in modern Islam. Complete with a glossary, extensive bibliography, and helpful diagrams, Hadith: An Introduction is perfectly suited to students, scholars, and the general reader interested in this critical element of Islam.

Jonathan A.C. Brown is Assistant Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Washington, Seattle. He is the author of Muhammad: A Very Short Introduction.

"A comprehensive study of the scholarship throughout Islamic history dealing with the Traditions of the Prophet. A synthesis of critical analysis and informed understanding that presents a significant new perspective on a much-debated subject." John Voll, Professor of Islamic History, Georgetown University

"A must read and a great read. The combination of impeccable, critical scholarship with a story teller's style has produced an introductory volume that is both substantive and remarkably engaging." John L. Esposito, Founding Director of the Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding at Georgetown University, and Editor of The Oxford Dictionary of Islam