Part 1 The Importance of Understanding Key Terminologies

In general, this article series aims to discuss why the two matters mentioned in the Hadith of Tsaqalain are so significant and why it is essential to understand them in depth. Thus, each key terminology contained in this hadith will be explained thoroughly.

Why Must We Deeply Understand Every Word in the Hadith of Tsaqalain?

Understanding the true meaning of each word in this hadith is crucial because each term holds profound significance. If not correctly understood, the original meanings could become distorted, causing us to miss the actual message intended by Rasulullah SAW.

My intention is not to claim that my views represent the absolute truth. Instead, I wish to share a deeper perspective on the real meanings behind terms such as Kitabullah and Itrati Ahlul Baiti, based on my understanding.

I hope, after reading this article, you can independently evaluate whether our current understanding aligns with the true meaning of the Hadith of Tsaqalain.

Differences in the Usage of Terminology

For example, in the Hadith of Tsaqalain, the phrase used is "Itrati Ahlul Baiti". However, we commonly use "Itrah Ahlul Bait" or simply "Ahlul Bait" in everyday conversation. Although they seem similar, there is a significant difference between these expressions.

When the phrase "Itrah Ahlul Bait" is translated into Malay, it is usually done without referring to the precise terminology mentioned in the hadith, namely "Itrati Ahlul Baiti". In my view, these two terms carry significantly different meanings and implications.

The Hadith of Tsaqalain as a Primary Reference

As a primary reference for this discussion, here is the text of the Hadith of Tsaqalain:

Hadith Narrated by at-Tirmidhi 3786

عَنْ جَابِرِ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ،
From Jabir bin Abdullah

قَالَ رَأَيْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم فِي حَجَّتِهِ يَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ وَهُوَ عَلَى نَاقَتِهِ الْقَصْوَاءِ يَخْطُبُ فَسَمِعْتُهُ يَقُولُ
He said: "I saw Rasulullah SAW during his pilgrimage on the Day of Arafah. He was sitting on his camel named Al-Qaswa', delivering a sermon, and I heard him say:

يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ إِنِّي قَدْ تَرَكْتُ فِيكُمْ مَا إِنْ أَخَذْتُمْ بِهِ لَنْ تَضِلُّوا كِتَابَ اللَّهِ وَعِتْرَتِي أَهْلَ بَيْتِي‏
"O people! Indeed, I have left among you something which, if you firmly hold onto it, you will never go astray; Allah's Book and my Itrah, my Ahlul Bait."

Gred: Sahih (Darussalam)
Rujukan: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3786
Rujukan dalam kitab: Book 49, Hadith 185
Terjemahan Inggeris: Vol. 1, Book 46, Hadith 3786

Key Terminologies to be Discussed

In the next section, Insha’Allah, I will elaborate specifically on several key terminologies found within the Hadith of Tsaqalain. Among these terms are:

1. Tsaqalain (the two heavy matters as the essence of the hadith)
2. Khutbah Wida' (the Prophet’s farewell sermon during Hajj Wida’)
3. Al-Qaswa' (القصواء) (the Prophet's camel during the sermon)
4. Wasiyyah (وصية) (the final will or advice from Rasulullah saw)
5. Kitabullah (Al-Quran as the primary guide)
6. Itrah and Itrati (the Prophet’s specific descendants)
7. Bait and Baiti (the house or family of Rasulullah saw)
8. Ahlul Bait and Ahlul Baiti (who exactly are the family members mentioned)
9. Itrati Ahlul Baiti (specific phrase used in the hadith)
10. Itrah vs. Ahl (difference between general family and specific lineage)
11. Zuriat and Nasab (understanding lineage and genealogy of the Prophet saw)
12. Ahlul Kisa' (specific family members purified by Allah swt)
13. Ismah (عصمة) (purity or protection from sin)
14. Tamassuk (تمسُّك) (how to firmly hold onto Tsaqalain)
15. Tadillu (تَضِلُّوا) (actual meaning of going astray mentioned in the hadith)
16. Akhir Zaman (آخر الزمان) (importance of the Hadith of Tsaqalain in facing end-time challenges)

Only after thoroughly understanding these terms can we comprehend how Tsaqalain serves as the ultimate weapon against the great trials and fitnah that will arise in the end times.