Although the misuse and abuse of Hadith is nothing new, in today’s complex and volatile world the consequences of relying on fraudulent and counterfeit Hadith to legitimise extremist behavior, justify blatant abuse, particularly of women, and issue disturbing fatwas calling for violent acts, is not only far too easy but in fact very dangerous. In addition, given the widespread anti-Islamic sentiment currently dominating mainstream discourse, it is imperative that the issue of fabricated hadiths, extensively publicised and ruthlessly exploited to support the thesis of Islamic violence and backwardness, is addressed. It is the responsibility of Muslim scholars well versed in the Islamic sciences, to root out with honesty and courage those hadiths which have clearly been fabricated, and which not only invite spurious interpretation but also perpetuate ignorance betraying both the Qur’an and the Prophet.
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