A Conceptual Framework for a Semantic Hadith Retrieval System Using Modern NLP Techniques
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46568/ihya.v25i1.204Keywords:
Hadith Retrieval, Semantic Search, Natural Language Processing, Ontology-Based Categorization, Arabic NLP, Semantic Web, Islamic ScholarshipAbstract
In the contemporary digital era, Islamic scholarship is undergoing a technological transformation, particularly in the realm of textual access and interpretation. One of the most critical corpora in Islamic studies is the Hadith literature, comprising the sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Traditional keyword-based search systems have proven inadequate for retrieving Hadith content effectively due to linguistic complexity, semantic variation, and contextual depth. This paper proposes a conceptual framework for a Semantic Hadith Retrieval System using modern Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques. By integrating ontology-based thematic categorization, deep language models, and semantic similarity algorithms, the proposed framework aims to overcome the limitations of surface-level keyword matching. The paper begins by exploring the unique challenges posed by Hadith texts, followed by a comprehensive literature review of prior digital Hadith retrieval efforts and semantic search models. It then presents the theoretical foundations of semantic processing, outlines the ontological modeling required for religious themes, and delves into the technical components of NLP suitable for Arabic and Islamic contexts. Furthermore, a practical architectural framework is proposed, detailing the technology stack, implementation flow, and sample annotation practices. Ethical concerns, challenges of authenticity, and evaluation metrics are also discussed. This research does not involve the development of a functioning system but lays down a blueprint for future implementation. The framework is designed to guide both developers and Islamic scholars toward building more intelligent, spiritually aware, and user-friendly Hadith retrieval platforms. The integration of semantic web technologies with Islamic knowledge promises to not only modernize access to religious texts but also preserve their interpretive richness and contextual integrity.
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