Difference between Hadith and Sunnah

“Hadith” refers to the words, actions, and approval of actions of Rasulullah Salallahu Alahi Wasallam, Sahaabah and Taa’bieen. Some scholars have stated that “Hadith” also refers to the characteristics of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam.

“Sunnah” refers to the path of Deen:

Those Ahadith that were exclusive to Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam such as, fasting consecutively (known as Saum-e-Wisaal), marrying more than four wives, or the narrations that are abrogated, are Ahadith but not the Sunnah, as these matters are not applicable to the Ummah.

The system of running a country established by the Khulafa-e-Rashideen and the matters of Deen established by them is considered as Sunnah, and not Hadith. For example, during the era of Umar Radiallahu Anhu, the performance of 20 Rakaats Taraweeh Salaah in congregation and the increasing of the first Adhaan in the era of Umar Radiallahu Anhu, are referred to as Sunnah, and not Hadith.

As for those Ahadith that are practiced upon, neither are they abrogated nor specific to Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam, are referred to as Sunnah and Hadith.

We hope that the above explanation clarifies the matter. We have been commanded to hold firmly onto the Sunnah and not the Hadith. Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “Hold firmly onto my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly-guided Khulafah. Hold firmly onto their Sunnah and grip onto them with your molars.” [Re:- Mishkaat Hadith no.165]