Hadith on Religious Renewal

"At the beginning of every century God will send one who will renew its religion for this people."

Reference: Mishkat al-Masabih 247

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith establishes the divine promise of religious renewal for the Muslim ummah at the commencement of each century. The term "mujaddid" (renewer) refers to a scholar of high standing whom Allah appoints to revive the authentic understanding and practice of Islam.

The renewal encompasses clarifying orthodox beliefs, removing innovations, reviving neglected sunnahs, and providing contemporary guidance while maintaining fidelity to revealed texts. This is not abrogation of religion but restoration of its pristine form.

Scholars note that mujaddids may appear in various lands simultaneously, specializing in different Islamic sciences - some in hadith, others in jurisprudence, theology, or spirituality. Their collective work ensures the preservation of din.

Historical Context

Throughout Islamic history, recognized renewers include Imam Abu Hanifa (1st century), Imam al-Shafi'i (2nd century), Imam al-Ash'ari (4th century), Imam al-Ghazali (5th century), and Ibn Taymiyyah (7th century). Their works addressed the specific challenges of their eras while grounding solutions in Quran and Sunnah.

Significance for Contemporary Muslims

This prophecy provides hope that Islam will never be without qualified guidance. It encourages seeking knowledge from authentic scholars and distinguishes true renewal from mere modernism or rigid traditionalism lacking scholarly basis.