When a Hadith is narrated by different narrators, but one narrator holds a higher rank, what is it called?

In the science of Hadith, scholars classify narrations according to the number of narrators and how widely a Hadith is transmitted. When a Hadith is reported by more than two narrators, but does not reach the level of Mutawatir, it is called a Mashhoor Hadith. Such a Hadith is usually narrated by a limited number of companions in the early stages, but it later becomes well known and widely circulated among scholars and students of Hadith.

The key feature of a Mashhoor Hadith is that it gains recognition and popularity over time. In some chains of narration, one narrator may be more prominent, reliable, or higher in rank than the others. This does not weaken the Hadith; instead, it often increases scholarly attention and acceptance, especially when the narrator is known for strong memory and integrity.

Mashhoor Hadith should not be confused with Mutawatir Hadith, which is narrated by such a large number of people at every level that false agreement is impossible. Mashhoor Hadith also differs from Azizi Hadith, which is narrated by exactly two narrators at each level of the chain. Therefore, when a Hadith is narrated by several narrators and one narrator stands out due to higher status or recognition, it falls under the category of Mashhoor Hadith.

In Islamic scholarship, Mashhoor Hadith holds an important place. Many well-known Hadiths used in Islamic law, ethics, and worship belong to this category. Scholars carefully examine the reliability of each narrator in the chain before accepting the Hadith for religious guidance.