Establishing and deriving The impact of the precautionary approach in weighing conflicting hadiths

Abstract

This study aims to highlight the significance of precaution in weighing between seemingly conflicting hadiths, encompassing the chain of narration or the text and its meaning and ruling. The application of precaution in weighing between conflicting hadiths when reconciliation and abrogation are impossible touches upon the aspect of foundational principles of preference found in the books of usul scholars, as well as the aspect of jurisprudential branches that fall under them. Precaution generally has an impact on both the foundational and derivative levels. Adhering to it according to its rules and precautions removes the obligated person from the realm of doubt and suspicion, and it achieves exoneration of liability.
In conclusion, precaution is considered a fundamental principle of Islamic legislation and an objective of Sharia according to the majority of usul scholars and jurists; it is preferred when there is a conflict in hadith regarding the chain of narration and the meaning.