Backbiting in Islam
Etymology and Arabic Translation
- Arabic: غيبة (G͟hībah), بهتان (Buhtān)
- Turkish: Dedikodu (G͟hībah), İftira (Buhtān)
Definition
In Islamic ethics, backbiting (غِيبة - G͟hībah) is defined as speaking ill of an absent person. When this negative speech about someone is true, it falls under G͟hībah. If the accusation or negative statement is false, it is termed Buhtān (بهتان - slander). Both actions are seen as detrimental to personal and community relationships and are strongly condemned in Islamic teachings.
Islamic Context
Backbiting (G͟hībah)
Backbiting has serious moral and ethical implications in Islam. It is considered a major sin as it harms the reputation and dignity of individuals absent from the conversation.
Abū Hurairah reported:
<p>The question was put to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), “Do you know what backbiting is?” He replied, “It is saying anything bad of a Muslim.” It was further queried, “But what is it if it is true?” The Prophet said, “If it is true, it is G͟hībah, and if it is a false accusation, it is Buhtān (slander).” (Mishkāt, xxii. c. x.)</p>
Slander (Buhtān)
Slander, or Buhtān, involves falsely accusing someone, which is even more grievous as it intertwines both lying and defamation.
Ethical Teachings from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the detrimental spiritual and social consequences of G͟hībah and Buhtān through various teachings:
- Good Conduct: “The best of God’s servants are those who, when you meet them, speak of God. The worst of God’s servants are those who carry tales about, to do mischief and separate friends, and seek out the defects of good people.”
- Integrity: “He who wears two faces in this world shall have two tongues of fire in the day of the Resurrection.”
- Decorum: “It is unworthy of a believer to injure people’s reputations, or to curse anyone, or to abuse anyone, or to talk vainly.”
- Atonement: “The best atonement you can make for backbiting is to say, ‘O God pardon me and him (whom I have injured).’ " (Mishkāt, xxii. c. x.)
Conclusion
In conclusion, backbiting (G͟hībah) and slander (Buhtān) are grave sins in Islam, causing harm both to the individual and the community. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provided clear guidance on this ethical issue, stressing the importance of protecting others’ reputations and promoting goodwill.
Takeaways
- Understanding G͟hībah and Buhtān: Recognizing the difference between speaking the truth negatively about someone (G͟hībah) and falsely accusing them (Buhtān).
- Moral Responsibility: Muslims are encouraged to avoid both forms of speech to maintain personal integrity and community harmony.
- Seeking Forgiveness: The atonement for backbiting includes seeking forgiveness from both Allah (SWT) and the person harmed.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Ethics of Islam” by Islamic Scholar George F. Hourani
- “A Code of Muslim Ethics” by M.A. Draz
- “The Muslim Conception of International Law and the Western Approach” by Muhammad Munir
By adhering to these teachings, believers can lead a higher ethical life, fostering an environment of mutual respect and compassion.
