He addressed the people and said, "People were sometimes judged by the revealing of a Divine Revelation during the lifetime of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ), but now the Divine Revelation has been discontinued [i.e. there is no longer any new revelation coming]. Now we judge you by the deeds you practice publicly."[Reported by al-Bukhari].
Hadith Commentary: The Transition from Divine Revelation to Public Practice
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari, also referenced in Bulugh al-Maram 1418, marks a pivotal moment in Islamic judicial history. The speaker, likely Caliph Abu Bakr al-Siddiq or another early leader, addresses the fundamental shift in judgment methodology following the Prophet's demise.
Historical Context of Divine Revelation in Judgments
During the Prophet's lifetime, complex legal matters were occasionally resolved through direct divine intervention (wahy). This supernatural guidance provided absolute certainty in verdicts, transcending human limitations of evidence and reasoning.
The cessation of revelation with the Prophet's death represents the completion of divine legislation. As stated in the Quran (5:3): "This day I have perfected for you your religion." This perfection necessitates that the comprehensive Shariah now serves all future needs.
The Principle of Apparent Deeds in Islamic Jurisprudence
Judges are instructed to rule based on zahir (apparent evidence and observable actions) rather than attempting to discern hidden intentions. This establishes objectivity in judicial proceedings and prevents speculation about matters known only to Allah.
The emphasis on public practice aligns with the Islamic legal maxim: "The ruling is based upon apparent matters, while the hidden realities are left to Allah." This protects both the rights of individuals and the integrity of the judicial system.
Practical Implications for Islamic Governance
This transition necessitated the development of sophisticated legal methodologies, including qiyas (analogical reasoning), ijma (consensus), and comprehensive principles of evidence law to address new circumstances.
The statement establishes that Islamic law operates within human capabilities, utilizing witness testimony, documents, and observable evidence rather than supernatural means unavailable to later generations.
Scholarly Reflections from Bulugh al-Maram
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, in his commentary on Bulugh al-Maram, emphasizes that this hadith demonstrates the completeness of Islamic legislation and the responsibility of qualified jurists to derive rulings from established sources through legitimate ijtihad.
This teaching reinforces that while divine guidance established the foundation, the Muslim community bears responsibility for implementing justice through the established mechanisms of Islamic law until the Day of Judgment.