- Condemnation of Backbiting:
"O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful." (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:12)
This verse equates backbiting to eating the flesh of a dead brother, a vivid and graphic metaphor that illustrates the abhorrence of this act in the sight of Allah. It emphasizes how detestable backbiting is, both morally and spiritually.
- Prohibition of Slander and Falsehood:
"Woe to every scorner and mocker." (Surah Al-Humazah, 104:1)
This verse condemns those who engage in mockery and scorn, behaviors often associated with backbiting and slander. It serves as a warning to avoid speaking ill of others.
- Guarding One’s Tongue:
"Not a word does he (or she) utter, but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it)." (Surah Qaf, 50:18)
This verse reminds believers that every word spoken is recorded, highlighting the importance of being mindful of speech, particularly when discussing others.
- Spreading Goodness and Avoiding Harm:
"And speak to people good [words]..." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:83)
The Qur'an instructs believers to speak kindly and avoid words that cause harm or spread negativity. Backbiting is the opposite of this command.
Do you know what is backbiting? They (the Companions) said: Allah and His Messenger know best. Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: Backbiting implies your talking about your brother in a manner which he does not like. It was said to him: What is your opinion about this that if I actually find (that failing) in my brother which I made a mention of? He said: If (that failing) is actually found (in him) what you assert, you in fact backbited him, and if that is not in him it is a slander.
Note: You may like to read our earlier post: A Qattat will not enter Paradise (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) on the similar theme.
- Definition of Backbiting (Ghibah): The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ defines backbiting as speaking about a fellow Muslim in a way that he or she would dislike, whether the statement is true or not. It involves mentioning someone's faults behind their back, which they would not want others to know or discuss.
- True vs. False Statements: The Prophet ﷺ clarifies that if the fault being mentioned is actually present in the person, it is considered backbiting. If the fault does not exist, it becomes slander (buhtan), which is an even greater sin because it involves spreading falsehoods and lies about someone.
- Impact on Relationships: Backbiting damages relationships, spreads negativity, and fosters distrust within the community. It is seen as a destructive force that undermines social harmony.
- Protecting Dignity and Honor: Islam places great emphasis on preserving the dignity and honor of every individual. Backbiting violates these principles by exposing and highlighting faults in a way that causes harm.
- Promoting Social Cohesion: By prohibiting backbiting, Islam seeks to maintain unity and trust within the community. When people refrain from speaking ill of one another, relationships are strengthened, and conflicts are minimized.
- Encouraging Self-Reflection and Repentance: The emphasis on avoiding backbiting encourages individuals to reflect on their own behavior rather than focusing on the faults of others. It promotes self-awareness and humility.
- Guarding Against Greater Sins: Backbiting often leads to more significant sins, such as spreading falsehoods, causing enmity, and breaking relationships. By curbing this behavior, Islam aims to prevent a cascade of negative actions.
Consequences of Backbiting:
- Spiritual Consequences: Backbiting distances a person from Allah’s mercy. It is considered a serious sin that can lead to the displeasure of Allah and potential punishment in the Hereafter.
- Social Consequences: It breeds mistrust and resentment, creating divisions within families, friendships, and communities. The social fabric is weakened when individuals feel unsafe from verbal attacks behind their backs.
- Personal Consequences: Engaging in backbiting reflects poorly on one’s character. It often leads to a loss of respect and trust from others.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.