Can you please tell the following Hadith is sahih or not.
“Seeking knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim” (Ibn Majah)
Answer
This Hadith has been recorded from many Sahabah (radiyallahu’anhum) with various chains, all of which are considered weak by the Muhaddithun.
However when combined, they reach the level of acceptance.
‘Allamah Mizzi (rahimahullah) has ruled that its chains, when combined, reach the level of Hasan lighayrihi (sound due to corroboration).
In fact some Hadith masters have even declared it authentic (sahih).
Refer: Al-Maqasidul Hasanah, Hadith: 660, Sharhul Ihya, vol.1 pg.98 and Tadribur Rawi, vol.2 pg.557 and vol.5 pg.10-12 with the footnotes of Shaykh ‘Awwamah.
Explanation
Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahullah) has explained that this Hadith refers to learning the basics of Islam [Fard ‘Ayn] and those rules that apply specifically to one’s own sphere of life.
(Al-Madkhal ila ‘ilmis Sunan, Hadith: 1443)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,
Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar