Imam Malik's Hadith Methodology in Al-Muwatta': An Integrative Analysis of the Tradition of Ahl al-Madinah and the Construction of Early Fiqh

Ai Siti Nurmiati (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Tetep Abdulatip (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Moh. Najib (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Engkos Kosasih (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)

Majority Science Journal
Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026): MSJ - August

This study aims to analyze Imam Malik's hadith methodology in al-Muwatta' and its contribution to the development of hadith studies and Islamic jurisprudence. Al-Muwatta' is one of the earliest works in the history of hadith compilation, integrating prophetic traditions with the practices of the people of Madinah (ahl al-Madinah). This research employs a qualitative approach using library research methods based on classical and contemporary sources. The findings reveal that Imam Malik applied a rigorous method of hadith selection, combining chains of transmission, the collective practice of the Madinan community, and the principle of public interest (maslahah). Furthermore, the book functions as both a hadith collection and a legal manual. Imam Malik's contribution lies not only in hadith codification but also in the formulation of a contextual and applicable methodology of Islamic law