The Chapters On Judgements From The Messenger of Allah - Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Hadith Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1342

Textual Analysis

This hadith establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic judiciary procedure wherein when a plaintiff brings a claim but lacks sufficient evidence, the defendant is required to take an oath denying the allegation.

Legal Principle (Al-Qā'idah al-Fiqhiyyah)

"Al-Bayyinatu 'alal mudda'ī wal-yamīnu 'alā man ankar" - The burden of proof lies upon the claimant and the oath is upon who denies.

This principle protects individuals from unsubstantiated claims while maintaining the sanctity of judicial process through sworn testimony.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan sahih (good and authentic). The majority of jurists from Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i and Hanbali schools apply this ruling in civil disputes.

The oath serves as both a spiritual deterrent against falsehood and a practical judicial tool when evidence is lacking. A defendant's refusal to take the oath may result in judgment against them.

Practical Application

This procedure applies in monetary disputes, property claims, and civil matters where direct evidence is unavailable. The oath must be taken in Allah's name with full awareness of its gravity.

Exceptions include criminal cases involving hudud punishments where stricter evidence requirements apply to protect the accused from false allegations.