The study circles of the Prophet's Mosque record the highest number of unbroken chains of transmission for the Qur'an and Sunnah
In a scholarly and spiritual achievement reflecting a deep connection to authentic Islamic heritage, the study circles at the Prophet's Mosque in Medina have set a new record by achieving the highest unbroken chains of transmission (isnad) back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) in teaching the Holy Quran and the purified Sunnah. This achievement is not merely a statistical figure, but rather a living testament to the continued rigorous scholarly methodology employed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in serving the Two Holy Mosques and fostering Islamic scholarship.
The highest chains of transmission in the modern era
The chain of transmission (isnad) for the recitation of the Holy Quran in the study circles of the Prophet's Mosque today is among the highest in the Islamic world in our time. The greatness of this chain is evident in the unbroken chain of trustworthy men that has remained unbroken for centuries, with only 28 men connecting the sheikh granting the ijazah (license) in the Prophet's Mosque to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). This golden chain begins with the Prophet receiving revelation from Gabriel (peace be upon him) on behalf of God Almighty, then transmitting it to the noble Companions, and from them to the Successors, reaching the reciters of this era, thus ensuring the accuracy of transmission and the preservation of the Quranic text from any distortion or alteration.
Leadership in the Prophetic Sunnah
Excellence wasn't limited to the Holy Quran alone, but extended to the Prophetic Sunnah, where the study circles achieved remarkable high chains of transmission (isnad). In the chain of transmission for Sahih al-Bukhari, considered the most authentic book after the Quran, the number of men between the transmitter and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) reaches 25. This high level of transmission underscores the meticulous precision and rigorous methodology employed by the study circles in selecting teachers and transmitters according to the highest scholarly standards adopted by the scholars of Hadith.
Historical depth and global standing
These chains of transmission derive their significance from their place of origin; the Prophet's Mosque was and remains the first Islamic university from which the light of knowledge shone forth to the world. Since the time of the Companions of the Suffah during the Prophet's era, this mosque has remained a beacon of knowledge, and these record-breaking numbers of chains of transmission further solidify its historical standing as a stronghold of Islamic sciences. Maintaining the system of "ijazah" (permission to transmit) and the unbroken chain of transmission is a unique characteristic that distinguishes the Muslim community from other nations, ensuring the reliability of its sources of legislation.
Today, the certificates issued from the precincts of the Prophet’s Mosque are considered a scientific “passport” that enjoys global recognition, as these circles have become the largest source of certificates for the Holy Quran around the world, and a destination for students of knowledge who come from different continents to obtain the honor of connecting with the noble Prophet’s chain of transmission.
Available educational opportunities
In its pursuit of spreading this great blessing, the Department of Quranic Studies and Scientific Texts at the Prophet's Mosque has provided diverse opportunities for those wishing to enroll, whether through in-person attendance at the mosque or through advanced distance learning programs that transcend the barriers of time and place. Those interested can find all the details, conditions, and registration dates on the department's official social media platforms, making it easy for Muslims everywhere to benefit from this pure resource.
