On_the_Conflict_between_Science_and_Hadith

Abstract

This paper examines how modern and premodern Muslim scholars grappled with the complex relationship between scripture and empiri- cal evidence, presenting as its case study hadith reports describing the extraordinary height of Prophet Ādam and early humans. Through this case study, the paper aims to contribute to two broader burgeoning discourses: the tension between science and Islamic scripture, and the concern that classical Muslim scholars were indifferent to the complexi- ties that preoccupy modern Muslim thought. The paper also explores a nexus of interconnected disciplines, includ- ing epistemology, science, archaeology, hadith criticism, and pre-Islam- ic scriptural narratives. Given the varied epistemic grading of hadith reports, this case study facilitates a reexamination of both the mean- ing (dālala) and the transmission (thubūt) of hadith concerning Ādam’s height. In doing so, this essay not only addresses the specific conten- tions at hand but also proposes a universal framework for engaging with other contemporary conflicts between established scientific facts and Prophetic reports.