Introduction

A great number of scholars and muhadditheen have spoken and referred to Imam Maliks great knowledge and literary works. Amongst his various literary compilations (Muwatta) is the most eminent.

Imam Shaafi'ee has stated regarding Maliks Muwatta : "On the face of the earth there is no book(s) more authentic than Muwatta." It should be borne in mind that Imam Shafi'ee passed away in the year 204 A.H. before the compilation of Sahih Bukhari. Today, it is a unanimously agreed opinion that Sahih Bukhari is ranked as No.1 in this field.

It is important to realize, however, that Imam Maliks collection is not complete: there are other scholars who worked as Imam Malik did and collected other reports.