Al-Imam Al-Bukhari’s Position Concerning Al-Sahabah (Prophet’s Companions)

Abstract

The topic of this paper deals with Al-Imam Al-Bukhari’s position concerning the Prophet’s companions, evident in his works and what is written about him. The significance of determining Al-Bukhari’s position is seen in the following aspects: knowing Al-SaHaba’s and their status in Islam, using Al-SaHaba’s understanding of the Quran, and Al-Bukhari’s position concerning the tension and positions among Al-SaHaba. The method used in the study is inductive, descriptive and analytical.

The findings can be summarized as follows:

1- Al-Bukhari has greatly expanded on mentioning Al-SaHaba laudably illustrating their being uniquely characterized by Allah. He devoted two books in his anthology about them: FaDael Al-SaHaba’s (Companion Tributes) and Manaqeb Al-Ansar ( Al-SaHaba’s Good Qualities).

2- Al-Bukhari defined Al-SaHabi as “A Muslim who accompanied or saw Prophet Muhammad”.

3- He employed Al-SaHaba’s understanding of Shari’a evidence and transmission of ijma’, to conclude that they must be followed.

4- In cases of disagreement among Al-SaHaba, the opinion of the one who is more enlightened by the Qur'an and the one who is more knowledgeable is accepted. In cases where Al-SaHaba are mistaken, then evidence from the Qur'an would  be the decisive position to be accepted and respected.

5- Al-Bukhari showed that it is impermissible to swear against Al-SaHaba, and reported earlier scholarly ‘ijma’not to vindicate them.

6- He reported that Ali hated to disagree with his predecessors, and his preference of Abu Bakr and Omar, while mentioning Othman only for his good deeds.

7- Al-Bukhari briefly mentioned the fighting and disputes (fitnah) among Al-SaHaba without expanding on these topics, adding a description of high tributes of the Prophet companions who participated in those wars.