The Book of Cutting off the Hand of the Thief - Sunan an-Nasa'i

A similar report was narrated from 'Aishah from the Messenger of Allah.

Scholarly Commentary

This concise narration indicates that the ruling concerning theft and its prescribed punishment (hadd) was consistently established through multiple chains of transmission, including from the Mother of the Believers, 'Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her).

The mention of a "similar report" demonstrates the meticulous preservation of Prophetic traditions, where scholars would note parallel narrations to strengthen authenticity and eliminate doubt regarding legal rulings.

'Aishah's narration carries particular weight given her close proximity to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and her renowned expertise in transmitting hadith, especially concerning matters of jurisprudence and household affairs.

Legal Implications

The consistency in reports about theft punishments emphasizes the gravity of this crime in Islamic law and the careful conditions required for implementation, including the nisab (minimum value) and secure storage conditions.

Multiple narrations from different companions provide stronger evidence (qat'i) for the ruling, leaving no room for speculation about the authenticity of this fundamental Islamic punishment.