In a situation where Imam Tirmidhi mentions a Hadith and says it is acceptable, while the latter Muhaddithun declare it unacceptable, does an A’alim in our times have an option of narrating or not? And what is the better option?
Answer
In principle, Imam Tirmidhi (rahimahullah) is a very high-standing expert in the field of Hadith. His rulings are indeed very credible and reliable.
My Honourable teacher, Al-‘Allamatul Muhaddith Muhammad ‘Awwamah (hafizahullah) has written on this in his annotations to Al-Kashif of ‘Allamah Dhahabi (rahimahullah). Refer to number: 4637 & 5102
You may also refer to the masterpiece of Shaykh Nuruddin ‘Itr (hafizahullah); Al-Imamut Tirmidhi wal muwazanatu bayna Jami’ihi was Sahihayn.
Nevertheless, the field of Hadith grading is also open to legitimate difference of opinion. One may therefore encounter such differences from time to time. [See more here].
Your question is vague. It would be easier to comment on a specific example, if you have any.
See here for more on the enormous stature and weight of the rulings of the earlier Hadith masters.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,
Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar