Shu'ba reported this hadith with the same chain of transmitters, but he made no mention that Shu'ba was in doubt and what follows subsequently.
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Author: Sahih Muslim | Hadith Reference: Sahih Muslim 762 c
Textual Analysis
This narration from Shu'ba through the same chain of transmitters indicates a variation in transmission. While the core content remains consistent, Shu'ba omitted certain elements of doubt and subsequent details present in other versions.
Scholarly Commentary
In the science of hadith ('ilm al-ḥadīth), such variations between transmissions are known as "ikhtilāf al-riwāyah" (differences in narration). Scholars of hadith meticulously document these differences to determine the most authentic version.
The omission of elements of doubt suggests Shu'ba's transmission represents a more decisive version, possibly reflecting his precision in relating only what he was certain of from his sources.
Legal Implications
When a reliable transmitter like Shu'ba omits certain qualifiers, jurists may give preference to his version as representing a clearer legal ruling. This principle follows the maxim that certainty is not overruled by doubt.
The consistent chain of transmission (isnād) across versions strengthens the overall authenticity of the hadith, while variations in wording provide insight into the meticulous preservation process.