Hadith #10676

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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, "لاتَكُونُوا مَساييحَ ولامَذاييعَ۔" This can be translated as,

Be neither scandalmongers nor revealers of others’ secrets.

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

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (masayih) "مَساييحَ" refers to scandalmongers or those who spread false and harmful information about others. They engage in backbiting, slander, and gossip, causing harm to individuals and communities. The word (mazayi'a) "مَذاييعَ" refers to revealers of secrets, those who disclose private matters that should be kept confidential.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of guarding one's tongue and refraining from spreading false information or revealing secrets. 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 highlights the prohibition of backbiting and making negative assumptions about others. It draws a powerful analogy, equating backbiting to consuming the flesh of a dead brother, something that is repulsive to our nature. It reminds Muslims to fear Allah and seek His forgiveness.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against spreading false information in Surah Al-Qalam (68:11),

Indeed, those who brought the falsehood are a party from 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 serves as a reminder that spreading falsehoods and engaging in scandalmongering not only harms others but also brings punishment upon oneself. It encourages Muslims to distance themselves from such actions and instead strive for truth and righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges Muslims to refrain from engaging in scandalmongering and revealing others' secrets. This teaching aligns perfectly with the Quranic principles of guarding one's tongue, avoiding backbiting, and spreading false information. By adhering to this guidance, Muslims can foster a community based on trust, respect, and unity.

The consequences of disregarding this Hadith are far-reaching. Scandalmongering and revealing secrets can lead to the breakdown of relationships, the spread of animosity, and the erosion of trust within communities. It can also cause emotional distress and harm to individuals who become victims of false rumors and gossip.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of upholding the principles of truth, justice, and respect in our interactions with others. We should strive to be individuals who promote unity, harmony, and confidentiality. By doing so, we contribute to the betterment of our communities and fulfill our duty as Muslims.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to adhere to the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quran, and protect us from engaging in scandalmongering and revealing others' secrets. May He guide us to be individuals who promote love, peace, and understanding among our fellow Muslims.