Hadith #10671

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Talebearing is an offense [and a sin] that cannot be forgotten.

This Hadith highlights the grave nature of talebearing and emphasizes its lasting consequences. To fully understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word "talebearing" in Arabic is (النميمة) "an-namimah". It refers to the act of spreading malicious gossip or rumors about others, with the intention of causing harm or discord. It involves revealing secrets, exposing faults, and sowing seeds of mistrust among individuals. Such behavior not only tarnishes the reputation of the person being talked about but also disrupts the harmony within communities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes talebearing as a "sin" or (ذَنْبٌ) "offense". This term signifies an action that goes against the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and carries moral and spiritual implications. It is a transgression that incurs guilt and requires repentance. The gravity of this sin is further emphasized by the fact that it "cannot be forgotten."

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against talebearing in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 12:

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.

This verse highlights the destructive nature of making assumptions and engaging in backbiting. It draws a powerful analogy, comparing the act of backbiting to consuming the flesh of one's own brother. Just as we would find such an act repulsive, we should also detest engaging in talebearing. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) urges us to fear Him, seek His forgiveness, and refrain from such harmful behavior.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam, verse 10, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against spreading false rumors and engaging in slander:

Indeed, those who came with falsehood are a group among you. Do not think it bad for you; rather, it is good for you. For every person among them is what [punishment] he has earned from the sin, and he who took upon himself the greater portion thereof - for him is a great punishment.

This verse reminds us that spreading falsehoods and engaging in slander not only harms others but also brings about negative consequences for the one who indulges in such behavior. It serves as a reminder that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is aware of our actions and will hold us accountable for our deeds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that talebearing is a sin that "cannot be forgotten." This statement highlights the lasting impact of such actions. Even if we seek forgiveness and repent, the consequences of our words and actions may continue to affect individuals and communities long after the initial incident. Trust is eroded, relationships are strained, and the fabric of society is weakened.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of guarding our tongues and being cautious of the words we speak. We should strive to promote unity, harmony, and goodwill among Muslims. Instead of engaging in talebearing, we should focus on building positive relationships, offering sincere advice, and supporting one another.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to refrain from talebearing and protect us from the harmful consequences of our words and actions. May He guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Ameen.