Hadith #11296

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الهماز مذموم مجروح", which translates to

The scandal-monger is dispraised and reviled.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (al-hamaz) "الهماز" refers to someone who spreads slander or backbites others. This person engages in the act of defaming others, causing harm to their reputation and spreading discord among people. The word (madhmoon) "مذموم" means dispraised or condemned, indicating that such behavior is highly discouraged and looked down upon in Islam. Additionally, the word (majrooh) "مجروح" means reviled or criticized, highlighting the severe consequences and negative impact of engaging in such actions.

The Quran provides clear guidance on the importance of guarding one's tongue and refraining from engaging in backbiting or slander. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

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 emphasizes the gravity of backbiting by comparing it to the repulsive act of consuming the flesh of a deceased person. Just as one would find such an act abhorrent, we should also detest and refrain from engaging in backbiting or spreading rumors about others. The consequences of such actions are severe, as they lead to the destruction of trust, the breakdown of relationships, and the spread of animosity among Muslims.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10-12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the behavior of those who spread false rumors and engage in slander. He says,

Indeed, those who have brought the news 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. Why, when you heard it, did not the believing men and believing women think good of one another and say, 'This is an obvious falsehood'?

These verses highlight the importance of verifying information before believing or spreading it. Muslims are encouraged to have a positive opinion of their fellow believers and to reject baseless rumors or slanderous statements. By doing so, we protect the unity and harmony within the Muslim community and avoid falling into the trap of being a scandal-monger.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith of the severe consequences of engaging in backbiting and slander. Such actions not only harm the reputation of others but also tarnish our own character and integrity. They create divisions and animosity among Muslims, weakening the bonds of brotherhood and unity that Islam seeks to establish.

Therefore, as Muslims, it is our duty to refrain from engaging in backbiting, gossip, and spreading false rumors. Instead, we should strive to promote love, respect, and unity within our communities. We should be cautious of the words we speak and the impact they can have on others. Let us remember the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and strive to be individuals who bring about positive change and foster a culture of compassion and understanding among Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the evils of backbiting and slander.