“In Madinah, there were people who, (apparently) had no faults themselves, but they spoke of the faults of others. Due to this disgraceful act, God revealed their own faults, and they were known for them until their death.” [1]
This statement was made by the Messenger of God (peace be upon him) in forbidding the act of backbiting and speaking ill of others, highlighting its negative impact on society.
Protecting the honor and secrets of Muslims, as well as prohibiting the invasion of others’ privacy, are important social matters and key factors in maintaining the unity of the Muslim community. These have been emphasized in the verses of the Qur’an and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the infallible Imams (peace be upon them).
In the will of the Messenger of God (peace be upon him) to Imam Ali (peace be upon him), it is stated: “O Ali! There are eight groups who, if they are insulted, should not blame anyone but themselves… One of them is someone who, without permission, interferes in a confidential matter between two people (spying and prying).” [2]
In another sermon, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said to his companions: “O you who have believed with your tongues, but whose hearts have no faith, do not backbite Muslims and do not seek to uncover their faults. For whoever seeks to uncover the faults of his Muslim brother, Allah will seek to uncover his faults, to the point that He will expose him in his own home.” [3]
Excerpted from the book “Mafatih al-Hayat” written by Ayatollah Jawadi Amoli (with summarization and minor changes).
Footnotes:
[1] Al-Amali by al-Tusi, page 101
[2] Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih, Vol. 4, page 355
[3] Ihya’ Ulum al-Din, Vol. 3, page 123