DefinePK

Abstract

The term "فِيهِ نَظَرٌ" (“there is some consideration regarding him/it”) is a technical expression frequently used by Imām Bukhārī (d. 256 AH) and other eminent hadith scholars when evaluating the reliability of a narrator or narration. Scholars differ regarding the exact implication of this phrase. According to one prevalent view, "فِيهِ نَظَرٌ" signifies a strong criticism and a severe form of weakening, indicating that the narrator does not meet the standards of trustworthiness and, thus, his narration is generally deemed unacceptable. This interpretation reflects the usage of Imām Bukhārī and his contemporaries, where the phrase signals serious deficiencies, effectively closing the door to the acceptance of the narrator. On the other hand, some scholars argue that "فِيهِ نَظَرٌ" may sometimes point to only a mild or secondary weakness, and does not necessarily imply complete unreliability. According to this opinion, the expression may not always indicate severe criticism but could simply highlight a minor flaw, leaving open the possibility of accepting the narration under certain conditions. Thus, there exist two main perspectives among hadith scholars regarding the severity and implications of this concise yet impactful phrase. This paper discusses both viewpoints in detail.
Keywords:        Imam al-Bukhari, Jarh wa Taʿdil, Fīhi Nazar, Sakatu ʿAnhu, Hadith criticism, Narrator reliability