ABSTRACT
In Tradition the isniid is of vital importance, as without it traditions are considered worthless. Indeed, the isniid is said to be half the science of Tradition, because each tradition has two parts, the text and the isniid which guarantees it. A number of statements in praise of the isniid are attributed to noted men. Ibn Sirin said, "This science is a religion, so consider from whom you get your religion". No doubt many isnads were invented. Indeed, it cannot have been otherwise, for there are many traditions provided with complete isnads which cannot genuinely go back to the Prophet. But this does not justify one in saying all isnads are fictitiously traced to the Prophet. The personality of the Prophet made such an impression on his followers that we cannot believe that the picture of him given in Tradition is purely a late development.
