Hadith means words, actions and silent/tacit approval of the Prophet (S.A.W.)
*During the life time of the Prophet (S.A.W.) and even after his death, his companions (Aṣḥāb) used to refer to him directly, when quoting his sayings.
*The successors ( Tābi cūn) followed suit as some of them used to quote the Prophet (S.A.W) through the companions while others would omit the intermediate authorities.
*Many companions of the Prophet (S.A.W.) committed themselves to the study of the Hadith.
*It has also been noted that prominent companions e.g. cAli, ibn Mascūd and ibn ‘Abbās would advise the Tābicūn to learn the Hadith.
*The transmission of Hadith was passed down from generation to generation.
*Thousands upon thousands of people began to transmit Ḥadith
*Consequently, deliberate fabrication of Aḥādīth by various sects led to the revival of the study of Hadith.
*As time passed by, more reports were involved in each Isnād, so the situation demanded strict discipline in the acceptance of Aḥādīth
*These led to the verification of authentic Ḥadith.
*Likewise, the science of <em>Matn </em>(text) took root.
*The science of Asmā’ ar-Rijāl came into study.
*The desire of the Muslims to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.W.) also served as a factor.