سیرت نگاری کے اصول روایت: منتخب اردو کتب سیرت کا مطالعہ

The Principles of Traditional Understanding in Sīrah Writing: A Study of Selected Urdu Sīrah Books

Abstract

This article presents a critical study of the principles of Riwayah (traditional understanding) in Urdu Seerah writing through selected classical and contemporary works, particularly Zia-un-Nabi, Seerat-ur-Rasool, and Nabi-e-Rahmat. The study aims to explore how Urdu Seerah scholars have not limited themselves to mere narration of traditions but have also applied intellectual, historical, and contextual analysis in interpreting the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Through the methodology of Riwayah, these authors highlight the wisdom, relevance, and practical implications of prophetic events for contemporary society.

The research reveals that each writer adopted a distinct intellectual and literary approach in presenting the Seerah. Tahir-ul-Qadri emphasizes rational discourse and modern interpretative methods, while Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi focuses on the spiritual, moral, and reformative dimensions of the Prophet’s life. Similarly, Pir Muhammad Karam Shah Al-Azhari combines traditional narrative techniques with scholarly investigation and critical insight. The article examines how the application of Riwayah transforms Seerah literature from a simple historical narration into a source of intellectual, ethical, and social guidance.

The findings of the study demonstrate that the principles of Riwayah have played a significant role in making Urdu Seerah literature more analytical, relevant, and responsive to modern intellectual challenges. The selected Seerah works contain elements of critical reasoning, historical evaluation, and social interpretation that enable readers to connect the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ with present-day realities. This research highlights the scholarly importance of Riwayah in Urdu Seerah studies and provides a foundation for future academic research in the field of Seerah writing.