Interdisciplinary Studies in Ethics

Interdisciplinary Studies in Ethics

An Analysis of the Functions of Hadith in Practical Ethics

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Ali Balvardi 1
Mohammad Taghi Sobhani Nia 2
1 PhD in Islamic Sciences Teaching , Faculty of Islamic Sciences, University of Quran and Hadith, Tehran, Iran (Corresponding Author).
2 Associate Professor, Department of Islamic Ethics, Faculty of Islamic Sciences, University of Quran and Hadith, Qom, Iran.
10.48308/jiethics.2026.242298.1036
Abstract
Introduction: Despite the central role and fundamental status of Hadith in formulating and explaining ethical teachings in the Islamic world, a scientific gap is observed in comprehensive analytical studies regarding the systematic and functional role of these sources in the realm of practical and applied ethics. While significant portions of Islamic texts, including the Quran and Hadith, are dedicated to ethics, previous research has largely remained at the level of establishing the credibility of Hadith or merely collecting texts, failing to provide a coherent framework for how Hadith can be used to construct a complete ethical approach. This study aims to fill this theoretical void by examining the practical functions of Hadith within the structure of the Islamic ethical system. Using an analytical-descriptive method and extensive library research, this paper seeks to demonstrate that Hadith, in the practical dimension, serve not only as a source of inspiration but also possess specific operational functions that facilitate moral behavior and ethical living. The core question addressed is: "What functions do Hadith have in practical ethics?"
Finding: Hadith establish motivational mechanisms by defining the value of actions (e.g., emphasizing Ikhlas or sincerity) and categorizing religious motivations into three levels: hope for reward (Raghbah), fear of punishment (Rahbah), and love for God (Hubb). These layers act as the driving force behind moral conduct.
1) Elaboration of Ethical Values: Hadith define the ultimate goal of human perfection as "proximity to God" (Qurb Allah). By linking external behaviors to ontological realities, they transform mere knowledge into firm belief, thereby motivating action.
2) Modeling and Exemplification: Hadith introduce the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Imams (AS) as concrete, tangible models (Uswah). This provides a practical path for imitation, allowing individuals to learn virtues through stories and the actual lived experiences of these figures rather than abstract theories.
3) Enforcement Guarantees: Hadith provide strong enforcement guarantees
by detailing definite consequences—both worldly (e.g., increased sustenance for good character, family discord for bad character) and otherworldly (Heaven for the righteous, Hell for the wicked). This creates a necessary deterrent and incentive system for adherence to ethical principles.

4) Ethical Training Methods: Hadith offer practical training frameworks, such as purifying the environment from corruption, enjoining good and forbidding evil, and ensuring the harmony between intention (Niyyah) and action (Fi'l). These methods provide a step-by-step guide for moral cultivation within the context of religion.
Discussion: The results indicate that the approach of Hadith to ethics transcends a set of rigid legal commands; it constitutes an integrated system that begins with internal motivation, maps the path of knowledge and modeling, ensures behavioral stability through guarantees, and finally guides the individual toward perfection via specific training methods. Unlike views that regard ethics solely as rational or consequentialist, this study emphasizes that in the Islamic intellectual system, practical ethics cannot be complete without a faith-based foundation and a living model (the Infallibles). Furthermore, the distinction between "theoretical ethics" and "practical ethics" highlights that Hadith act as a sturdy bridge between these two realms, where knowledge derived from Hadith is immediately converted into will and action. The main innovation of this work lies in moving beyond the "proof of necessity" of Hadith to the deep analysis of their "actual functioning" in social and individual life, offering a practical guide for preachers, educators, and researchers in the field of ethics.
Keywords
Ethical Hadith
Practical Ethics
Ethical Values
Moral Examplars
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Interdisciplinary Studies in Ethics
Volume 2, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
September 2026
Pages 167-190

  • Receive Date 02 November 2025
  • Revise Date 22 January 2026
  • Accept Date 20 April 2026
  • First Publish Date 20 April 2026
  • Publish Date 21 March 2026