A Research Study on the Harms of the Lack of Knowledge of the Hadith of the Imams of Mosques in the Present Era

عہدِ حاضر میں آئمہِ مساجد کے حدیث پر عدمِ واقفیت کے نقصانات کا تحقیقی جائزہ

Abstract

Hadith, as the second fundamental source of Islamic law after the Qur’an, plays a central role in guiding religious belief and practice. Imams of mosques serve as primary religious leaders, educators, and moral guides for Muslim communities; therefore, their sound knowledge of Hadith is essential. In the present era, however, a noticeable lack of adequate understanding of Hadith sciences among some mosque imams has led to serious religious, intellectual, and social challenges. This research study critically examines the harms resulting from insufficient knowledge of Hadith among contemporary imams, including the misuse of weak and fabricated narrations, the spread of incorrect religious concepts, increased sectarian tensions, and the decline of public trust in religious leadership. The study further highlights the negative impact of this deficiency on Friday sermons, religious guidance, and the intellectual development of Muslim society, particularly among the younger generation. By adopting an analytical and descriptive research methodology, the study explores the underlying causes of this problem and proposes practical solutions, such as structured Hadith training programs, continuous scholarly development, and the promotion of authentic source-based preaching. The research concludes that strengthening Hadith competence among mosque imams is essential for preserving religious authenticity, social harmony, and effective moral reform in contemporary Muslim societies.