Al-Madkhal ila Ulum al-Hadith al-Sharif

Al-Madkhal ila Ulum al-Hadith al-Sharif (المدخل إلى علوم الحديث الشريف) is a book written by Muhammad Abdul Malek that serves as an introductory guide to the science of Hadith. The title can be translated as "An Introduction to the Sciences of the Noble Hadith." First published in 1998, the book has gained recognition and widespread use in educational institutions, including being included in the syllabus of Al Jamia Al Islamia Patiya.

Background
It was first printed in 1998 by Habib al-Rahman Khan, the owner of Ashrafia Library in Bangabazar. Subsequently, it was printed by the Publication and Distribution Department of Markazud Dawah Al-Islamia in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and by Dar al-Riyahin in Oman, Jordan.

Structure
The book comprises a total of 215 pages, with the main content spanning pages 1 to 177. Authored by Muhammad Abdul Malek, it commences with an introductory section that addresses the present state of the science of Hadith and the neglect of its significant branches. The author emphasizes the importance of considering five aspects of a Hadith: determining the correct names of narrators, ascertaining their status, understanding the accurate wording of the text, knowing the grading of Hadith for authenticity and weakness, and recognizing the jurisprudential content and legal implications within Hadith.

Abdul Malek also tackles a common inquiry concerning the necessity of specializing in the science of Hadith despite the existence of extensive works by scholars on the subject. He explains that specialization is crucial in all fields of Islamic knowledge and underscores the significance of studying the nomenclature and principles of scholars to truly benefit from their contributions.

Subsequently, the book explores various methods for locating Hadith, including categorization by subject matter, identification by the Sahabi who narrated it, reference to books containing information about narrators, understanding the initial portion of the Hadith, utilization of indexes, and the use of computer programs. The author emphasizes the need for caution when dismissing the existence of a Hadith and discusses overlooked issues related to citing Hadith, such as prioritizing the mention of the most authentic sources.

The author dedicates a section to the acquisition of biographical information about Hadith narrators, offering valuable insights and guidance. Another segment focuses on grading Hadith and the concept of al-jarh wa al-ta‘dīl (narrator criticism and appraisal), addressing crucial points and underscoring that the classification of a Hadith as authentic or weak is a matter of ijtihad, thereby allowing for valid differences of opinion.

Additionally, as an addendum, Abdul Malek includes an article by al-Kawthari titled "What is the method of reviving the disciplines of Hadith and Sunnah." Originally known as "Reviving the disciplines of Sunan in al-Azhar," this article provides further insights into revitalizing the study of Hadith and Sunnah.

Objectives
The main objective of the book is to provide students of knowledge with a foundational understanding of Hadith literature and the methodology of studying Hadith. It covers various aspects of the science of Hadith, such as Takhrij (extraction) principles, the study of narrators' profiles, types of Hadith books, critical analysis of narrators (al-Jarh wa at-Ta'dil), distinguishing authentic Hadith from inauthentic ones, and the importance of studying the Usul (methodology) and Mustalah (terminology) of Hadith. It also addresses contemporary issues related to the science of Hadith and encourages students to explore relevant books and engage with the rich heritage of scholars who specialized in Hadith studies.

Reception
Abdul Rashid Numani expressed his satisfaction with the author's book in a letter, highlighting its potential benefits to attentive readers. Saeed Ahmad Palanpuri, the former head of the Department of Hadith at Darul Uloom Deoband, offered a positive assessment, expressing his genuine pleasure and admiration for the work. He also noted the book's relevance, particularly for students in non-Arabic-speaking areas. Additionally, contemporary Arab scholar Muhammad Awwamah shared his admiration for the book following a comprehensive review.