The Semantic Relationship Between the Qur’an and Hadith: Classical Islamic Approaches

Abstract

The relationship between the Qur’an and Hadith has remained one of the most significant subjects in classical Islamic scholarship. The Qur’an is regarded as the primary revealed source of Islamic guidance, while Hadith, particularly the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), serves as an explanatory and practical manifestation of Qur’anic teachings. Classical Islamic scholars developed sophisticated interpretive methodologies to explain how Hadith relates semantically and legally to Qur’anic revelation. This article examines the semantic relationship between the Qur’an and Hadith through classical Islamic approaches, focusing primarily on Qur’anic verses and narrations from Sahih alBukhari. Using a qualitative textual analysis based on the IMRAD structure, the study explores how Hadith clarifies general Qur’anic commands, specifies universal rulings, restricts broad injunctions, and functions as an independent normative authority. Findings indicate that classical scholars consistently understood Hadith not as secondary commentary alone but as an essential interpretive source inseparable from Qur’anic understanding. The study demonstrates that the semantic interaction between the Qur’an and Hadith forms a foundational epistemological structure in Islamic thought.