IBN MANDA AL-ISFAHANI'S PERSONALITY AND HIS METHODOLOGY AND STYLE IN MA'RIFAT AL-SAHABAH

Abstract

Abu Abdullah Muhammad bin Ishaq Ibn Manda al-Isfahani (310-395 AH) was a renowned Islamic scholar, Hadith expert, and historian known for his significant contributions to the preservation of Islamic traditions. His work Ma'rifat al-Sahabah is a comprehensive biographical compilation dedicated to documenting the lives of the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ companions. Ibn Manda’s methodology in this work is characterized by meticulous authenticity, adherence to strict hadith verification principles, and reliance on primary sources. He systematically presents narrations with isnads (chains of transmission) to ensure the credibility of reports. His style reflects a balanced approach, combining historical detail with scholarly rigor while maintaining a clear and structured narrative. One of the distinguishing features of Ibn Manda’s approach is his emphasis on ilm al-rijal (the science of narrators), where he critically evaluates the reliability of transmitters. He follows a thematic and alphabetical arrangement, making the compilation both accessible and academically valuable. Furthermore, he integrates the virtues, contributions, and roles of the Sahabah in early Islamic history, portraying their significance in the transmission of religious knowledge.His work remains an essential reference in hadith studies and Islamic historiography. By upholding authenticity and precision, Ibn Manda significantly contributed to the preservation of the Prophet’s ﷺ legacy. His methodological rigor has influenced later scholars and remains a model in the field of biographical literature.

Keywords: Ibn Manda al-Isfahani, Ma'rifat al-Sahabah, Hadith methodology, Islamic historiography, Ilm al-Rijal