The Serious and Honest Pursuit of Truth
Author: Dr Mohammed Akram Nadwi
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Research is the serious and honest endeavour to attain truth and correctness. It is precisely this quality that distinguishes the human being from other creatures and becomes the very evidence of his dignity and nobility. Every person ought to adopt the path of research in every affair of his life. To speak or make a claim without investigation is a sign of baseness and a deficiency of character. Those who shirk the duty of research not only go astray themselves, but they also mislead others into error.
The straight path of research lies in understanding the delicate and profound relationship between claim and proof. It is not necessary that a person must know the answer to every question, but it is essential that whoever makes a claim be prepared to provide evidence for it. Depending on the nature of the claim, different types of proofs are required. Those who remain ignorant of this subtle relationship between claim and proof are the most susceptible to misguidance and, in turn, they mislead others.
For the sake of ease in understanding and cultivating a proper awareness of claims and their proofs, claims may be divided into three categories. The first is the general claim, in which no scholarly issue is under discussion, nor is there any preference given in a matter of dispute, nor is any accusation levelled against an individual. For instance: dates of birth, place of birth, date of death, or details of travels and education. For such claims, a direct or nearly direct reference suffices. However, if disagreement arises even in a general claim, it then enters the second category.
The second is the scholarly claim, in which an explanation is given of an academic matter, a preference is expressed in a disputed issue, or the authenticity of a report is debated. If a scholarly claim pertains to transmitted (naqlī) matters, it is necessary to present an authentic chain of transmission (isnād), and the valid principle for authenticating or weakening such a chain is that which was established by the experts of ḥadīth. If a scholarly claim pertains to intellectual (ʿaqlī) matters, its proof must be rational. Here, rationality does not refer merely to Greek logic but to the broader methodology encompassing all forms of sound reasoning.
The third and most delicate category is the accusatory claim, in which a claim is made against an individual or a group that, if proven, would affect life, property, or honour. The adjudication of such claims lies beyond the reach of the general public and even ordinary scholars; it is the prerogative of courts of law. Outside the courts, discussing such matters amounts not only to backbiting and slander but can sometimes exceed the gravity of major sins like fornication or theft. Protecting oneself from such conversations and preventing others from indulging in them is the duty of every conscious and conscientious person. Remember that when you engage in backbiting, the greatest harm befalls yourself, not the one you speak ill of.
In summary, every human being will be answerable for his hearing, sight, and heart, as the Lord of the Worlds has declared: “Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart—each of these will be questioned about.” Speaking without investigation is not only foolish but destructive for both religion and worldly life. Understanding the relationship between claim and proof is indispensable. Every individual must refrain from making claims without clear evidence, and if someone presents a proof that contradicts one’s own claim, accepting it is the mark of a person of sound nature. Submitting to evidence is the clearest sign of a person’s nobility, honesty, and wisdom.
Disclaimer: This article was translated by AI. Original post: https://t.me/DrAkramNadwi/6357
