Innovation in Islam (A Brief Reading in Hadith and History) Muawiyah and His Followers as a Model

Abstract

This scientific research aims to clearly identify what has been mentioned in the noble hadiths regarding the issue and concept of "innovation in religion" (Ihdath). This is achieved by inductively examining relevant hadiths, followed by a descriptive and analytical reading, akin to a simple interpretation of various religious texts and noble hadiths that address the issue of innovation in religion. Innovation here refers to altering and changing the religion, establishing new matters that are not part of it, and attributing them to it. The research begins by discussing the concept of innovation and its rejection in religion, as well as its relationship with concepts such as fitnah (strife) and bid'ah (heresy). It then moves on to review texts that highlight the status of the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet, peace be upon them) and the importance of their role in embodying true Islam. The research also examines examples of innovations attributed to Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan according to hadith and historical texts. Finally, the research discusses the hadiths of the Hawd (the Basin) and their relationship to the issue of innovation.

The research concludes that innovation is a problem that arises from within the Islamic community and that the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) fortified religion and society by emphasizing adherence to the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt. The hadiths of the Hawd, in general, refer to a group of Muslims who committed innovation in religion.

Among the recommendations of the research is that the concept of innovation still requires further refinement and a broader explanation of its details. Additionally, there is a need to address hadiths related to creed (aqidah) with the same objectivity as hadiths related to jurisprudence (fiqh)