Definition
A ḥadīth with a defect in its chain — broken transmission, weak narrator, irregularity, or hidden defect. Not used as evidence in ‘aqīdah or rulings according to the strongest position.
Pronunciation: ḍa-‘ĪF
Etymology & Root
From ض-ع-ف (ḍ-‘-f), meaning 'weak.'
Scholarly Notes
Some scholars permit narrating ḍa‘īf ḥadīth in 'virtues of deeds' under three strict conditions (Ibn Ḥajar): (1) it is not severely weak, (2) it falls under an established principle, (3) one does not believe its specific virtue when acting on it. The strongest position (Ibn al-‘Arabī, ash-Shawkānī, al-Albānī) is to leave it altogether — for the authentic suffices.
Common Misconceptions
'Ḍa‘īf is fine for virtues' is widely repeated but heavily restricted by the scholars who said it. It is never a free pass to spread weak narrations.
Practical Application
If you cannot verify a ḥadīth's grade, do not narrate it as the Prophet's ﷺ word — the warning is severe.
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