Sunan al-Darimi

Sunan al-Darimi is an early and authoritative hadith collection compiled by Imam Abdullah ibn Abd al-Rahman al-Darimi (181-255 AH/797-869 CE). This work predates most of the six canonical collections and served as a model for later compilers. Containing 3,503 narrations, it covers essential Islamic teachings with particular emphasis on creed, knowledge, Quran, prayer, and prophetic character. The collection is distinguished by its systematic organization and the compiler's careful selection of authentic chains. Imam Darimi was a student of prominent hadith masters and traveled extensively to gather traditions from Hijaz, Iraq, Syria, and Khurasan. His work begins with chapters on knowledge and its virtues, reflecting the Islamic emphasis on learning. The authenticity of its narrations and the compiler's scholarly precision make this collection a valuable reference, particularly for understanding early Islamic thought and practice before the major canonical compilations.