Hadith #8260

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الغيبة قوت كلاب النار

which translates to

Backbiting is the food of the dogs of hell.

This powerful statement highlights the severity and consequences of engaging in backbiting, a harmful act that is condemned in Islam. To fully understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words and explore the Quranic verses that shed light on this matter.

The term (al-ghibah) "الغيبة" refers to backbiting, which involves speaking ill of someone in their absence. It is an act that tarnishes the reputation and honor of others, causing harm and discord within the community. The word (qut) "قوت" means food or sustenance, indicating that backbiting serves as nourishment for the (klab al-nar) "كلاب النار", the dogs of hell. This metaphorical language emphasizes the grave consequences of engaging in backbiting, likening it to feeding the fires of hell.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against backbiting and its destructive nature. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah says,

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 repugnance of backbiting by comparing it to consuming the flesh of one's deceased brother, an act that is universally abhorred.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10-12), Allah describes the fate of those who engage in backbiting and slander, saying,

Indeed, those who malign believing men and believing women undeservedly are guilty of slander and a manifest sin. O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful. If the hypocrites and those in whose hearts is disease and those who spread rumors in al-Madinah do not cease, We will surely incite you against them; then they will not remain your neighbors therein except for a little.

These verses emphasize the gravity of backbiting and its detrimental effects on individuals and society.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that backbiting is not only morally wrong but also has severe consequences in the hereafter. Just as dogs are known to devour anything in their path, backbiting consumes the good deeds of individuals and fuels the fires of hell. It tarnishes the unity and trust within the Muslim community, leading to discord and animosity.

As Muslims, it is our duty to refrain from engaging in backbiting and to actively discourage it within our communities. Instead, we should strive to promote unity, harmony, and forgiveness. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt, we can cultivate an environment of love, respect, and compassion. Let us remember that our words hold immense power, and it is our responsibility to use them wisely and for the betterment of society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to abstain from backbiting and grant us the strength to promote unity and harmony among Muslims. May He forgive our past transgressions and bless us with His mercy and forgiveness.