Hadith Taqreeri mentions:

In Islamic scholarship, the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is not limited merely to what he spoke or did. It is broadly classified into three primary categories: Qawli (verbal sayings), Fi’li (physical actions), and Taqreeri (tacit or silent approval). Hadith Taqreeri refers to instances where a companion performed an act or spoke words in the presence of the Prophet ﷺ, or the news of such an act reached him, and he did not speak against it, forbid it, or show any sign of disapproval. In the eyes of Islamic law, this silence is interpreted as a clear indication that the act is permissible (Halal) or at least sanctioned within the religion.

The Theological Basis for Silent Approval

The logic behind the validity of Hadith Taqreeri rests on the Prophetic mission of Tabligh (conveying the message). Scholars of the Muhaddithin (Hadith specialists) argue that it is impossible for the Prophet ﷺ to witness a religious error or an impermissible act and remain silent. Since his primary role was to guide the Ummah and correct deviations in faith and practice, his silence during a specific event serves as a "divine signature" of approval. If the action were forbidden (Haram), revelation or Prophetic correction would have been mandatory at that moment.

Historical Examples of Taqreeri

One of the most famous historical examples of Hadith Taqreeri occurred during the incident of the tribe of Banu Qurayza. The Prophet ﷺ had instructed his companions not to pray the Asr prayer until they reached the territory of Banu Qurayza. While on the way, the time for the prayer began to run out. The companions were divided: some took the instruction literally and delayed the prayer, while others interpreted it as a command for speed and prayed on the road. When the Prophet ﷺ was later informed of both groups' decisions, he did not rebuke either side. This silence established the legal precedent that both literal and spirit-based interpretations of a command can be valid in specific contexts.

Another notable instance involves Khalid bin Walid. During a meal, Khalid bin Walid ate the meat of a desert lizard (Dhab) in the presence of the Prophet ﷺ. While the Prophet ﷺ himself chose not to eat it, he did not stop Khalid or declare the meat forbidden. This "tacit approval" clarified that while the food might not have been to the Prophet's personal taste, it was religiously permissible for the Muslims to consume.

llenges under the watchful and guiding silence of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.