Imam Al-Bukhari’s approach in presenting the elements of the Companion’s translation in his book Al-Tarikh Al-Kabir (A critical analytical study)

-, Abd Al-Rahman Suleiman Ahmed; -, Fatima Al Zahraa Aouati

doi:10.34278/aujis.2025.190001

	Imam Al-Bukhari’s approach in presenting the elements of the Companion’s translation in his book Al-Tarikh Al-Kabir (A critical analytical study)
Anbar University Journal of Islamic Sciences
Article 4, Volume 16, Issue 4, December 2025, Pages 2323-2354 PDF (4.91 M)
DOI: 10.34278/aujis.2025.190001
Authors
Abd al-Rahman Suleiman Ahmed -; Fatima Al Zahraa Aouati -
University of Sharjah/ College of Sharia and Islamic Studies
Abstract
This study aims to highlight Imam al-Bukhārī’s methodology in his book Al-Tārīkh al-Kabīr in dealing with the biographical entries of the Companions of the Prophet (ﷺ). It focuses on identifying the elements included in each biography and the extent of variation among them in terms of content. The study adopts a descriptive approach in order to arrive at objective and scholarly conclusions. Among the findings of the research is that Imam al-Bukhārī included a variety of detailed elements in the biographies of the Companions. The essential elements can be summarized as follows: · Mentioning the Companion’s name along with his father’s name (and ancestors, if applicable), his kunyah (agnomen), even if multiple, and who gave him that kunyah. · Stating the Companion’s lineage, whether by blood or alliance, and the town he is associated with—either by birth or residence. · Imam al-Bukhārī often notes the year of death or birth, as well as the place of either, reflecting the importance of these chronological details in verifying companionship. · Including a hadith in some biographies in which the Companion is either part of the chain of narration or mentioned in the text itself, to affirm his companionship—sometimes for other purposes as well. 5. In certain cases, the biography is limited to just the Companion’s name and his father’s name
Highlights

Keywords
Companionship; Companion; Biography; al-Bukhārī; Al-Tārīkh al-Kabīr

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References
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