02445nas a2200217   4500000000100000008004100001260001900042653001700061653001800078653001200096100001500108700001500123700001200138700001500150245012400165856005200289300001100341490000700352520185400359022001402213       2025                            d  c12/2025bLepra10aShia hadiths10aSocial stigma10aleprosy1 aFastenau A1 aEbrahimi H1 aMasih S1 aKhiabani S00aAn examination of Shia hadiths on leprosy and their influence on the construction of social stigma. A historical review  uhttps://leprosyreview.org/article/96/4/20-25087  a1 - 210 v963 a<p><strong>Background</strong></p>

<p>Throughout history, leprosy has been linked to various social and cultural beliefs, with religious perspectives often shaping public attitudes. In Shia Muslim communities, hadith literature plays a significant role in influencing perceptions of illness, with numerous narrations addressing leprosy. This study examines these narrations analytically to evaluate their potential impact on social stigma toward individuals affected by leprosy.</p>

<p><strong>Method</strong></p>

<p>The study utilized a historical review approach with an analytical-interpretive focus on Shia hadiths related to leprosy and their influence on stigma in Shia Muslim societies. Primary sources such as classical hadith collections and theological texts, along with secondary sources from academic platforms like PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL, were analysed. The study adhered to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines to ensure transparency and methodological rigor in identifying, screening, and analysing relevant texts.</p>

<p><strong>Results</strong></p>

<p>A total of 75 narrations on leprosy were identified in six major Shia sources: al-Kafi (22), Man la yahduruhu al-faqih (6), Nahj al-Balagha (1), Tahdhib al-Ahkam (2), al-Wafi (8), and Bihar al-Anwar (36). Among these, 53 narrations focused on health precautions and social or legal restrictions, potentially reinforcing stigma, while 22 narrations emphasized compassion, human dignity, and social inclusion.</p>

<p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>

<p>The findings reveal a dual perspective in the narrations, with some inadvertently reinforcing stigma through precautionary measures and others promoting empathy and inclusion. Careful interpretation is crucial to avoid perpetuating stigma while upholding religious values and ethical public health principles.</p>
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