Hadith Text & Transmission

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: Allah will raise for this community at the end of every hundred years the one who will renovate its religion for it.

Abu Dawud said: 'Abd al-Rahman bin Shuriah al-Iskandarani has also transmitted this tradition, but he did not exceed Shrahil.

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud 4291 in Battles (Kitab Al-Malahim) establishes the divine promise of religious renewal. The term "mujaddid" (renovator) refers to a scholar whom Allah appoints to revive the authentic understanding of Islam, purify it from innovations, and guide the ummah back to the Prophetic way.

Classical scholars like Imam al-Suyuti explained that the mujaddid emerges at each century's conclusion to strengthen the religion through knowledge, practice, and teaching. This renewal encompasses clarifying correct belief, reviving neglected sunnahs, refuting heresies, and guiding Muslims to proper worship and conduct.

The transmission note indicates Abu Dawud's meticulous verification methodology, distinguishing between complete and incomplete chains. This demonstrates the scholarly rigor applied to preserving Prophetic traditions and ensuring their authenticity for future generations.

Historical Context & Significance

This prophecy manifests throughout Islamic history with renowned scholars recognized as mujaddids of their centuries, including Imam al-Shafi'i, Imam al-Ghazali, and Ibn Taymiyyah. Their works revived Islamic sciences and countered deviations while maintaining continuity with orthodox tradition.

The renewal process ensures Islam's perpetual relevance while preserving its fundamental principles, allowing the religion to address contemporary challenges without compromising its essential teachings.