The term "Thiqah" trust

A study of its concept and applications among men.

Abstract

Submission date: 24/11/2025

Acceptance date: 21/12/2025

Publication date: 30/12/2025

This study aims to investigate the term "Thiqah" (trustworthiness) in Imami biographical evaluation, analyzing its semantic transformation from general linguistic and ethical meaning to technical usage in the science of rijal. It traces its use by early and later hadith scholars, particularly Allamah Al-Hilli and Sayyid Al-Khoei. The study follows an analytical-descriptive methodology, examining linguistic, jurisprudential, and biographical sources, analyzing the contexts of usage of the term, comparing old and modern schools, and studying private and general authentication as well as the grades of criticism and appraisal. Key Findings: "Thiqah" evolved from a general ethical description to a technical term in authentication and transmission. Early hadith scholars used it to determine narrators’ reliability without linking it consistently to doctrinal justice. Private and general authentication became a systematic method for evaluating narrators. Al-Hilli applied an analytical-critical approach in Khilasat al-Qawl, combining and scrutinizing earlier opinions. , Al-Khoei expanded the concept, emphasizing isnad reliability independent of doctrinal affiliation and comparative criticism. Terms like “Thiqah,” “Thiqah Thiqah,” and “Thabat” denote the highest levels of authentication. Trustworthiness in rijal science signifies precision and truthfulness in narration, not necessarily doctrinal justice.