This paper examines ways in which Muslims authenticate
revelation and tradition through the isnad chains attached to
hadith and through the inimitability of the Qur’an. The study of
isnad chains and the study of inimitability differ in obvious
ways, but are both complex, highly developed fields in the study
of Islam. The studies of these authentication methods have
developed over time since at least the ninth century.
Ultimately, although isnād chains have been studied from
historical perspectives and inimitability from literary
perspectives, these systems of validating revelation and
tradition derive their power from Allah himself, through popular
faith in the basic tenets of Islam. "A Task of Faith and Logic:
Authenticating Revelation and Tradition," Macalester Islam
Journal: 3, Article 9. Available at:
http://digitalcommons.macalester.edu/islam/vol2/iss3/9