The Authority of the Sunnah According to the Qur’anic Text

Abstract

This study analyzes what the Qur’an ascribes to the Sunnah of Muhammad and highlights the existence of indicators within the Qur’anic text as to the Sunnah’s significance, role, and legal authority. Insight into its place and role is researched according to the Qur’an, and answers are sought as to its significance in Islamic law and thought. The answers presented are the ones found in the Qur’anic discourse circulating around Muhammad. The analysis, which examines thirty-five Qur’anic verses that mention Muhammad, is organized according to several themes, among them obedience to God and to Muhammad and the latter’s judicial role.