Hadith Collections

Hadith collections, topics, narrators, and chapters in Shia Journey.

The Dictations
al-Āmālī (lit. ‘the dictations’) is a transcription of 42 assemblies held by Shaykh al-Mufīd wherein he dictated narrations to his students. The topics mentioned in these narrations attributed to the Prophet (s) and the Ahl al-Bayt (a) covered various topics such as the Prophet's (s) conduct, supplications and guidance, and the virtues and merits of the Ahl al-Bayt (a). The content encompasses historical, ethical, and doctrinal aspects. In total, the book possesses 387 narrations.
The Dictations
al-Āmālī (lit. ‘the dictations’) is a transcription of 97 assemblies held by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq wherein he dictated narrations to his students. The topics mentioned in these narrations attributed to the Prophet (s) and the Ahl al-Bayt (a) covered various topics such as the Prophet's (s) conduct, the Isrāʾ and Miʿrāj (Night Journey and Ascension), supplications and guidance, and the virtues and merits of the Ahl al-Bayt (a). The content encompasses historical, ethical, and doctrinal aspects. In total, the book possesses 1082 narrations.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Sufficient
al-Kāfī, compiled by Shaykh al-Kulaynī, is a monumental work belonging to a number of books belonging to the Shīʿī Ḥadīth literature. It comprises of eight volumes and took twenty years to compile, making it an extensive collection of wisdom and guidance for adherents of the faith. The eight volumes are divided into three main parts: al-Uṣūl (Roots), al-Furūʿ (Branches), and al-Rawḍa (the Garden). Part 1 (Volumes 1 & 2): al-Uṣūl (Roots) This portion delves into the principles of beliefs, containing eight books that discuss topics such as the intellect and ignorance, the virtues of knowledge, Divine Unity, Divine Authority, Belief and Disbelief, Suppications, the Virtues of the Holy Qurʾān, in addition to Ethics and Morals. Part 2 (Volumes 3 to 7): al-Furūʿ (Branches) This portion comprises of Ḥadīths related to Islamic jurisprudence, including acts of worship, business transactions, and judicial laws. It covers a vast array of topics in 26 books, ranging from the laws of cleanliness and menstruation to those of wills, inheritance, and legal penalties. Part 3 (Volume 8): al-Rawḍa (the Garden) al-Rawḍa encompasses a collection of miscellaneous Ḥadīths, which cover topics that had already been glazed over in prior two portions of the book. Many a time, long Ḥadīths will be included from written letters, wills of the Imams and historical narrations that didn’t necessarily fit in chapter headings that were made in the first seven volumes. The Ḥadīths are not organised in a specific way, but its diversity adds depth to the understanding of the faith.
The Book of Characteristics
al-Khiṣāl is a unique work in the realm of Shīʿī Ḥadīths. Authored by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq, the book focuses on exploring traditions by categorising them on the basis of the numbers mentioned in the traditions, which is similar to what can be found in the book al-Maḥāsin for al-Barqī. Each section of the book is dedicated to a specific number, starting from one and extending up to one million. In the course of gathering these Ḥadīths, one will find traditions dealing with history, doctrine, ethics, jurisprudence and a large variety of genres.
The Book of Divine Unity
al-Tawḥīd is an esteemed work authored by the revered early Shīʿī scholar Shaykh al-Ṣadūq. This work explores an array of theological themes concerning God's nature and the relationship between God and the Creation. Rather than crafting a dialectic theological or Kalām text, Shaykh al-Ṣadūq has uniquely drawn from the Ḥadīths— the reported sayings of the Prophet (s) and the Imams (as)— to grapple with profound subjects such as God's Oneness, the conundrum of free will versus predestination, the nature of the Qurʾān, the nature of God’s attributes and the impact of revelation. This approach underscores the notable, yet often overlooked, role that the Ḥadīths of the Imams have played in shaping early Muslim theology.
Virtues of the Shia
Faḍaʾil al-Shīʿa (lit. The Virtues of the Shīʿa) is a short compilation penned by the distinguished Shi'a scholar al-Shaykh al-Saduq. The book presents a collection of 45 selected hadiths from the Imams, articulating the standing of the Shīʿa community and affirming their position as the only followers who faithfully adhere to the Prophet's path of truth. These chosen sayings underscore the unique role of the Shīʿa in perpetuating the Prophet's teachings and serve as a guide for moral conduct and understanding.
The Perfection of the Religion
Kamāl al-Dīn wa Tamām al-Niʿma (The Perfection of Religion and the End of Divine Favor), compiled by the great Shīʿī scholar al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq (d. 381 AH/991 CE), is a seminal theological and historical work written during the formative period following the Major Occultation (al-Ghayba al-Kubrā) of the Twelfth Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi (a). Its primary subject is a systematic and comprehensive defense of the doctrine of occultation and the imamate of the Hidden Imam, making it the oldest and most authoritative Ḥadīth reference on this central tenet of Twelver Shīʿī belief.
The Complete Pilgrimage Guide
Kāmil al-Ziyārāt is a significant work by the esteemed scholar Ibn Qūlawayh al-Qummī. This book offers an invaluable collection of narrations centred around Ziyāra, the practice of visiting the sacred sites of the Shīʿa. The structure of Kāmil al-Ziyārāt is reader-friendly, beginning with an exploration of Ziyārāt and its various purposes and benefits. It then delves into the Ziyārāt of specific holy personalities and related themes. The book details the rewards associated with visitations, the proper rituals to perform, the designated recitations, and much more, as prescribed by the Ahl al-Bayt (as). The majority of this expansive 680-page work concentrates on the Ziyāra of Imam Husayn (as). Kāmil al-Ziyārāt is not merely a practical guide to take on a Ziyārāt trip. Instead, it transcends being a logistical guidebook to offer spiritual enrichment, insightful historical context, and a profound understanding of the purpose and merits of these sacred journeys. Whether one is planning a Ziyārā, yearning for one, or simply interested in comprehending its essence, this book offers meaningful and engaging content. Renowned in the world of Shia for being a trusted reference for Ḥadīths and supplications, Kāmil al-Ziyārāt is an essential reading for those eager to gain an in-depth understanding of Ziyāra and the rich traditions that envelop it. Its relevance extends beyond personal spiritual growth, making it a valuable resource for religious research.
The Weakened Ones
al-Ḍuʿafāʾ (also known as "Rijāl Ibn al-Ghaḍāʾirī") by Aḥmad b. al-Ḥusayn b. ʿUbaydullah al-Ghaḍāʾirī, a prominent scholar in the field of Rijāl, is an important work within the Shīʿī tradition of Rijāl. The book, meaning "The Weakened Ones" in Arabic, is a comprehensive biographical work focused on biographical information and information regarding the credibility of Shīʿī transmitters of Ḥadīths. Initially, there was no trace of the existence of this work between the 5th/11th and the 7th/13th centuries. Its first mention be first found by al-Sayyid Jamāl al-Dīn Ibn Ṭāwūs in the 7th/13th century. This led to controversies among scholars regarding the book's true authorship. What can definitely be said about the work though, based on the comments of individuals like al-Sayyid al-Zanjānī and al-Sayyid Muḥammad Riḍā al-Sīstānī is that the author is a Shīʿī who has access to the works of the Imāmī school and has great knowledge about the narrators of the sect. The book is alphabetically organised, providing a comprehensive perspective on numerous Shīʿī transmitters of Ḥadīths. Thus the book is a valuable source for those studying the history of Shīʿī narrators and the complex scholarly debates surrounding the reliability of Ḥadīth transmitters.
The Book of Occultation
Kitāb al-Ghayba, written by al-Shaykh Muḥammad b. Ibrāhīm al-Nuʿmānī is a vital work regarding the occultation of the 12th Imam (a). This is for a variety of reasons, the first of which is considering the early authorship of this work— which seems to have been penned very shortly after the end of the minor occultation. Additionally, al-Nuʿmānī had the privilege of acquiring Ḥadīth from the great scholar al-Shaykh al-Kulaynī. The work itself consists of approximately 478 narrations which are spread across twenty-six chapters. The narrations themselves span a variety of topics, from discussions on the Imamate, the hardships and trials of the Shīʿa, signs of the Imam’s reappearance, and matters that speak of the nature of the governance of the Imam post-occultation. The traditions are chaptered in an excellent manner, making it easy for the reader to navigate— yet unlike other works written in this genre, the author rarely comments on the traditions within and allow them to speak for themselves.
The Book of Occultation
Kitāb al-Ghayba, authored by the renowned Islamic scholar al-Shaykh al-Ṭūsī, is an indispensable resource on the concept of occultation in Shīʿa Islam, with a specific focus on Imam al-Mahdi (a). This narrative text revolves around Mahdawiyya, offering an in-depth exploration of the 12th Imam's occultation. The work was written around thirteen years before al-Ṭūsī’s death, it incorporates powerful dialectical arguments and Ḥadīths vindicating the doctrine of the occultation of the son of al-Ḥasan al-ʿAskārī (as), in addition to responding to other proto-Shīʿī sects such as the Wāqifa and detailing the prophesied signs of his advent. The book is meticulously structured into eight chapters. The book refutes claims about Imam al-Mahdī’s death and advent times and sheds light on his characteristics, attributes, and conduct. Kitāb al-Ghayba's historical and theological importance is well-recognized due to its thorough examination of Imam al-Mahdi's occultation. al-Shaykh al-Ṭūsī’s access to first-hand accounts and his profound understanding of Ḥadīths significantly enhance the book's credibility. Its comprehensive treatment of Mahdism and occultation makes it a reference point for anyone seeking to write on these subjects. It also critically evaluates the claims of individuals asserting to be deputies of Imam al-Mahdi, enhancing its relevance in the discourse around the topic.
The Book of the Believer
Kitab al-Muʾmin authored by the distinguished 3rd century Shīʿī scholar and narrator, al-Ḥusayn b. Saʿīd al-Ahwāzī, is an influential text within Shīʿī literature. Comprising 201 traditions, this book offers detailed insights into the nature of Belief (Īmān) and the Believers (Muʾminūn), drawing upon the teachings and traditions of the Ahl al-Bayt (as). The most significant feature of this work is its earliness, considering the fact that al-Ḥusayn b. Saʿīd was from amongst the companions of the Imams al-Riḍā, al-Jawād and al-Hādī (as). The central themes the book explores include the understanding of the afflictions a believer endures, the unique honours that Allah bestows upon the believers, and the special bond that exists among the faithful. Furthermore, it discusses the rights that believers hold over each other and the spiritual rewards that accompany acts of kindness towards fellow believers. It also emphasises the importance of social interaction among believers, such as paying visits during illness or in a social context, and the virtues of helping a believer in need, be it by providing food, clothing, or assistance with debts. In summary, Kitab al-Muʾmin is a vital resource for understanding the principles of Iman, the characteristics of a believer (Muʾmin), and the intricacies of interactions within the Muslim community based on the traditions of the Ahl al-Bayt (as).
The Book of Asceticism
Kitāb al-Zuhd, is penned by the reputable 3rd century Shīʿī scholar and narrator, al-Ḥusayn b. Saʿīd al-Ahwāzī. It is a beautiful work in Islamic literature that examines ethics and character within the context of spiritual self-discipline and asceticism (Zuhd). Focusing on the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (as), the book underscores the significance of good character and etiquette as fundamental to the life of a devout Muslim. Comprising nearly three hundred narrations, this text furnishes practical advice to believers aiming to elevate their moral and ethical conduct. The narrations provide insights that transcend temporal bounds, retaining their relevance and applicability to the modern world, and serve as a guide to enhancing a believer's life in both the worldly and spiritual realms. Kitab al-Zuhd offers a valuable wellspring of ethical teachings, guiding believers towards higher stations of moral and spiritual excellence as inspired by the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (as).
The Meanings of Reports
Maʿānī al-Akhbār, meaning "The Meanings of Reports," is an essential compilation by the eminent Shīʿī scholar al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq, renowned for his profound knowledge of Ḥadīth and jurisprudence. This scholarly work, completed in the fourth/tenth century, collects and elucidates approximately 500 terms from the Qurʾān, Ḥadīths, theology, jurisprudence, and other Islamic sciences, leveraging narratives from Prophet Muhammad (s) and the Ahl al-Bayt (a). Maʿānī al-Akhbār provides rich insights into various aspects of Islam, organised into five primary categories: Ḥadīths on Qurʾānic exegesis, jurisprudential Ḥadīths, theological, ethical, and historical Ḥadīths. The book comprises 809 Ḥadīths, arranged into 429 diverse sections, each shedding light on particular terminologies or concepts, ranging from widely recognized phrases to in-depth theological principles. Distinctive features of Maʿānī al-Akhbār include the author's rigorous scholarly approach to narrations, noting the time and location of some Hadith's transmission, and reference to lexicological experts' opinions. al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq also articulates his theological arguments, referencing other sources, and often clarifying the true meaning of famous Sunnī Ḥadīths through Shīʿī chains of transmission. The book's unique focus on explaining ambiguities and problems within Ḥadīths, using the explanations provided from the Ahl al-Bayt's (as), is what sets it apart from other works. Maʿānī al-Akhbār is praised for its distinctive subject matter and methodology, offering unrivalled insight into understanding and interpreting key terms and concepts in Islamic sciences.
He who is without Jurist
Man Lā Yaḥḍuruhū al-Faqīh, compiled by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq (Ibn Baḅawayh, d. 381 AH), is the second of the Four Main Shīʿī Ḥadīth collections and was expressly assembled as a practical handbook for any believer “who has no access to a jurist.” Unlike larger compendia, it presents each tradition succinctly—often omitting full chains of transmission—to focus squarely on the legal rulings and devotional practices essential to daily life. In its classical form it is a single work; modern printed editions typically span four volumes, comprising just under a thousand chapters arranged by topic.
He who is without Jurist
Man Lā Yaḥḍuruhū al-Faqīh, compiled by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq (Ibn Baḅawayh, d. 381 AH), is the second of the Four Main Shīʿī Ḥadīth collections and was expressly assembled as a practical handbook for any believer “who has no access to a jurist.” Unlike larger compendia, it presents each tradition succinctly—often omitting full chains of transmission—to focus squarely on the legal rulings and devotional practices essential to daily life. In its classical form it is a single work; modern printed editions typically span four volumes, comprising just under a thousand chapters arranged by topic.
He who is without Jurist
Man Lā Yaḥḍuruhū al-Faqīh, compiled by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq (Ibn Baḅawayh, d. 381 AH), is the second of the Four Main Shīʿī Ḥadīth collections and was expressly assembled as a practical handbook for any believer “who has no access to a jurist.” Unlike larger compendia, it presents each tradition succinctly—often omitting full chains of transmission—to focus squarely on the legal rulings and devotional practices essential to daily life. In its classical form it is a single work; modern printed editions typically span four volumes, comprising just under a thousand chapters arranged by topic.
He who is without Jurist
Man Lā Yaḥḍuruhū al-Faqīh, compiled by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq (Ibn Baḅawayh, d. 381 AH), is the second of the Four Main Shīʿī Ḥadīth collections and was expressly assembled as a practical handbook for any believer “who has no access to a jurist.” Unlike larger compendia, it presents each tradition succinctly—often omitting full chains of transmission—to focus squarely on the legal rulings and devotional practices essential to daily life. In its classical form it is a single work; modern printed editions typically span four volumes, comprising just under a thousand chapters arranged by topic.
He who is without Jurist
Man Lā Yaḥḍuruhū al-Faqīh, compiled by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq (Ibn Baḅawayh, d. 381 AH), is the second of the Four Main Shīʿī Ḥadīth collections and was expressly assembled as a practical handbook for any believer “who has no access to a jurist.” Unlike larger compendia, it presents each tradition succinctly—often omitting full chains of transmission—to focus squarely on the legal rulings and devotional practices essential to daily life. In its classical form it is a single work; modern printed editions typically span four volumes, comprising just under a thousand chapters arranged by topic.
Compilation of Authenticated Narrations
"Muʿjam al-Aḥādīth al-Muʿtabara" by Shaykh Muḥammad Āṣif Muḥsinī is a monumental work which fills a significant gap in the realm of the works of Ḥadīth. The aim of this comprehensive compilation is to provide people with a dependable resource, countering the long-standing misconception about the perceived insufficiencies in the body of Ḥadīth possessed by the Shīʿa. As such, this project marks a pivotal contribution to the field, providing someone with access to reliable, authentic material. The book showcases Shaykh Muḥsinī’s ambition to assemble a collection of Muʿtabar (reliable) Ḥadīth, thus facilitating the work of jurists, researchers, lecturers, and any layperson interested in gaining knowledge. Despite his busy schedule, Shaykh Muḥsinī committed himself to this colossal task, motivated by a desire to preserve and make accessible the authentic teachings of the Shīʿī faith. In creating this work, Shaykh Muḥsinī was guided by a set of principles. First, the Ḥadīth should have a reliable chain and not contradict the Qurʾān, the established Sunnah, or the intellect. Second, while the book aims to be comprehensive, it may not include every narration with a reliable chain, since the Shaykh had mentioned that he may have accidentally overlooked some narrations. However, it does provide an overwhelming majority of reliable traditions. Shaykh Muḥsinī’s stringent criteria and rigorous application make this work an invaluable resource in Ḥadīth. While some scholars may differ with his judgments, the work aims to provide a universally acceptable core of irreproachable narrations, with the potential to serve as a basis for consensus among scholars and researchers. In summary, "Muʿjam al-Aḥādīth al-Muʿtabara" is a milestone in Ḥadīth studies, providing a reliable reference point for those interested in authentic Shia narrations. Its meticulous assembly and rigorous criteria set it apart as a work of significant value and authority.
The Peak of Eloquence
Written by al-Sharīf al-Raḍī, Nahj al-Balāgha is an extraordinary anthology that chronicles the wisdom and eloquence of one of Islam's most revered figures, the Commander of the Faithful, ʿAlī b. Abī Ṭālib (as). By means of transmitting various sermons, letters, and maxims, this book provides profound insight into the spiritual, ethical, rational and societal dimensions of the Islamic faith. al-Raḍī, one of the scholars having descended from the lineage of ʿAlī himself, meticulously collected these valuable pieces of literature. He divided the book into three main sections— sermons, letters, and maxims. These divisions allow for comprehensive coverage of ʿAlī’s teachings and make it easy to navigate the book's extensive content. In the sermons, readers will encounter profound reflections on topics as varied as the creation of the universe, human nature, good and oppressive governments. The teachings are not confined to religious philosophy only, but also extend to the natural sciences and provide historical information regarding early Islamic society and the political disputes that had arisen after the passing of the Apostle (as). Despite the careful curation, al-Raḍī humbly acknowledges that the collection may not cover all of ʿAlī’s teachings. Yet, he aspires that the book will serve as an open door to the world of eloquence, quenching the thirst for spiritual wisdom and providing a cure for the maladies of disbelief and doubt.
Treatise of Rights
The famed "Treatise of Rights" (Risālat al-Ḥuqūq) by Imam Zayn al-ʿĀbidīn (as) is an important work in regards to how man should conduct himself. As its name suggests, the book focuses on the rights that is incumbent upon man to fulfill, which includes his rights to his Lord, his society, his family and his own body. It has been transmitted by the great trustworthy companion, Abū Ḥamza al-Thumālī, Thābit ibn Dīnār. The sources of this treatise can be found in al-Khiṣāl & al-Amālī by al-Saduq. He also records 2 more distinct chains of the treatise in his Man lā Yaḥḍuruhu al-Faqīh. Shaykh al-Kulaynī also had recorded this tradition in his Rasāʾil al- ʾAʾimmah, which despite being a lost work today, it has been mentioned in Ibn Shu'ba al-Harrani's Tuḥaf al-ʿuqūl, as well as in Ibn Ṭāwūs' Falāh al-Sa'īl.
Attributes of the Shia
Ṣifāt al-Shīʿa by Shaykh al-Ṣadūq explores the ethical and behavioural attributes that Shīʿī individuals should embody through the lens of narrations attributed to the Ahl al-Bayt (as). This book comprises 71 Ḥadīths and covers a range of topics such as: Characteristics of the Shīʿa, Submission to the Imams' commands, Attributes of the Pious, Attributes of the Believer, Guidelines for Social Interaction, Strength in Religion, Allying with Others for the sake of God, Dissociation for the sake of God, Nobility of Character. These topics are not only emphasised within, but the manner in which they can be manifested are explained from time to time.
The Rewards & Punishments of Deeds
Thawāb al-Aʿmāl wa ʿIqāb al-Aʿmāl is a remarkable collection of Ḥadīths collected by al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq, a preeminent Shīʿa scholar of the 4th/10th century. Thawāb al-Aʿmāl wa ʿIqāb al-Aʿmāl delineates virtuous and sinful deeds, elucidating their spiritual consequences which lead to either reward or punishment. It has long served as an invaluable resource for both Shīʿa scholars and the general Shīʿa population and is celebrated as one of the most notable Shīʿa Ḥadīth collections. The author's motivation for writing this book was rooted in the prophetic hadith: "The one who leads people to good deeds is as their doer." Shaykh al-Ṣadūq emphasised that his primary goal in authoring the book was to seek the reward and satisfaction of God. The book is structured into two primary parts. The first part, "Thawāb al-Aʿmāl," encompasses 788 Ḥadīths arranged under 389 titles, detailing the spiritual rewards for performing righteous actions. The second part, "ʿIqāb al-Aʿmāl," includes 331 Ḥadīths distributed under 131 titles, focusing on the punitive consequences of committing sinful actions.
The Source of Traditions on Imam al-Riḍā
ʿUyūn Akhbār al-Riḍā, also known as ʿUyūn al-Akhbār is a comprehensive Ḥadīth collection focusing on Imam al-Riḍā (as), which is compiled by the renowned Shīʿī scholar, al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq. The work contains a plethora of Ḥadīths that are either the direct sayings of Imam al-Riḍā (as) or the wisdom he imparted from his forefathers. As one of the references within Shīʿī scholarship, this collection covers an array of subjects, including history, jurisprudence, ethics, and theology. al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq may have written ʿUyūn Akhbār al-Riḍā after the death of Rukn al-Dawla al-Buwayhī in 366 AH. The writing of this work was inspired by a unique exchange. Sāḥib b. ʿAbbād al-Daylamī, a prominent Shīʿī minister and ruler of the time, penned a poem extolling ʿAlī b. Mūsā al-Riḍā (as) and dedicated it to al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq. In response, the work was compiled as a reciprocal gift. al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq stated in his introduction, "I found no other better gift than this book which is about the infinite knowledge of Imam al-Riḍā (as) to send in return to the two odes of Ibn ʿAbbād.” This text provides readers with a deep understanding of the life and teachings of Imam al-Riḍā, illuminating the comprehensive scope of his wisdom and his contributions to Islamic thought and practice.
The Source of Traditions on Imam al-Riḍā
ʿUyūn Akhbār al-Riḍā, also known as ʿUyūn al-Akhbār is a comprehensive Ḥadīth collection focusing on Imam al-Riḍā (as), which is compiled by the renowned Shīʿī scholar, al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq. The work contains a plethora of Ḥadīths that are either the direct sayings of Imam al-Riḍā (as) or the wisdom he imparted from his forefathers. As one of the references within Shīʿī scholarship, this collection covers an array of subjects, including history, jurisprudence, ethics, and theology. al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq may have written ʿUyūn Akhbār al-Riḍā after the death of Rukn al-Dawla al-Buwayhī in 366 AH. The writing of this work was inspired by a unique exchange. Sāḥib b. ʿAbbād al-Daylamī, a prominent Shīʿī minister and ruler of the time, penned a poem extolling ʿAlī b. Mūsā al-Riḍā (as) and dedicated it to al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq. In response, the work was compiled as a reciprocal gift. al-Shaykh al-Ṣadūq stated in his introduction, "I found no other better gift than this book which is about the infinite knowledge of Imam al-Riḍā (as) to send in return to the two odes of Ibn ʿAbbād.” This text provides readers with a deep understanding of the life and teachings of Imam al-Riḍā, illuminating the comprehensive scope of his wisdom and his contributions to Islamic thought and practice.