Avoiding backbiting and Slander:

Backbiting means speaking about  a Muslim in his absence and saying things that he would not like to have spread around or mentioned.Buhtan or slander means saying things about a Muslim that are not true, or in other words telling li s about him.

Backbiting was defined as a warning in the event of the absence of a specific person or by his judgement of what is happening in him, as it is considered a deficiency according to custom in word, sign, writing, exposition or statement.

To stop backbiting in Islam, individuals should cultivate a conscious effort to avoid speaking negativity about others, particularly when they are absent and instead focus on positive qualities and virtues. This can be achieved by reminding oneself of the severity of backbiting.

Avoiding Backbiting and Slander in Islam

Backbiting (ghibah) and slander (buhtan) are serious sins in Islam that harm individuals and destroy the unity of the community. Backbiting refers to speaking about someone in their absence in a way they would dislike, even if what is said is true. Slander, on the other hand, involves making false accusations or spreading lies about others.

Allah warns against backbiting in the Qur’an:

"Do not backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it." (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:12)

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said:

"A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand other Muslims are safe." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

To avoid falling into backbiting and slander, one should:

Remember that silence can be an act of worship.

Engage in beneficial conversations that promote goodness.

Deal with backbiting in Islam:

Al-Nawawi said: Note that the one who hearts any backbiting about a Muslim should refuse it and rebuke the one who says it. If he does not rebuke him words he should rebuke him by his actions. If he cannot rebuke him.by his actions or his words then he should leave that gathering.

Make du‘a for others instead of speaking ill of them.

If wronged, seek proper justice instead of gossiping.Controlling our speech is a sign of strong faith and character. By avoiding backbiting and slander, we protect not only others’ honor but also our own souls.

Certainly. Here’s a more detailed note on avoiding backbiting and slander in Islam, covering their definitions, dangers, and practical ways to stay away from them.

Avoiding Backbiting and Slander in Islam: A Comprehensive Guide

Backbiting (Ghibah): Speaking about a person in their absence in a way they would dislike, even if what is said is true.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Do you know what backbiting is?” They said: “Allah and His Messenger know best.” He said: “It is to say something about your brother that he would dislike.” (Sahih Muslim)

How do avoid gossips in Islam:

1. Praise the person being talked about. Witness your imaan increase up as you defend them as the Prophet.
2. Invite truth from each other....
3. Explain  it's none of your concern..
4. Put yourself in their shoes
5. Change the topic .
6. Leave 

Slander (Buhtan): Making false accusations or spreading lies about someone. It is considered even worse than backbiting.

Allah says:

“And those who harm believing men and believing women for something they did not earn, have certainly borne upon themselves a slander and manifest sin.” (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:58)

Why Backbiting and Slander Are So Harmful

1. They destroy relationships – Spreading negativity breaks trust and divides families and communities.

2. They harm the speaker more than the subject – On the Day of Judgment, good deeds may be transferred to the one who was wronged.

3. They displease Allah – These sins reflect arrogance, malice, and a lack of self-discipline.

4. They spread false or harmful information – Damaging someone's reputation unjustly can have long-lasting consequences.

Consequences in the Hereafter

The Prophet (PBUH) said that a person may find their scale of good deeds empty because they spoke ill of others.

In a Hadith, the Prophet saw people in a dream punishment: one was scratching his face with copper nails – he was someone who used to backbite.

Practical Steps to Avoid Backbiting and Slander

1. Be conscious of Allah (Taqwa): Always remember that Allah hears every word.

2. Control your tongue: Pause before you speak; think: Is it beneficial?

3. Walk away from gossip: Change the subject or leave the gathering if backbiting starts.

4. Defend your fellow Muslim: The Prophet said, “Whoever defends the honor of his brother, Allah will defend his face from the Fire on the Day of Judgment.” (Tirmidhi)

5. Make excuses for others: If you hear something negative, try to think the best of the person.

6. Engage in self-accountability (muhasaba): Review your speech daily and ask Allah for forgiveness.

7. Make du'a for the person you spoke about – This helps cleanse the heart and mind.

What to Do If You Have Backbitten Someone

Sincerely repent to Allah.

If appropriate and it won’t cause more harm, apologize to the person.

Make du'a for their good and ask Allah to forgive them.

What is considered backbiting in Islam:

• To attack the character or reputation of a person who is not present.
• Speaking false information or lies about a person who is not present.

As a Muslim it is our responsibility to guard our tongues and to avoid things which are forbidden. The instructions from the Quran and Hadith are clear regarding the stance on backbiting and slandering. We will explore those in a minute. But first we' ll explore real consequences of just how bad things can get.

We live in a digital age where information spreads rapidly. 

Causes of backbiting:

• Lack of empathy or consideration for others.
• Jealousy.
• Low self-esteem.
• Insecurity 
• Fear of being left out or excluded 
• Negative past experiences or trauma.
• Need for attention or validation.
• Envy 

Backbiting and slander are more than just bad habits—they are serious sins that have spiritual and social consequences. By purifying our speech, we purify our hearts and earn Allah’s pleasure. As believers, we must strive to uphold the honor of our fellow Muslims both in their presence and absence.

Dua protects your self from backbiting:

" Allahuma inna audhu bika min sharri Sami wa min shari basari wa min sharri Lisani wa min sharri maniyi.

How to ignore backbiters:

Maintaining professionalism and calm in the face of backbiting. It is crucial to uphold professionalism and composure. Responding with anger or adopting similar behaviour only, serves to escalate the situation. Instead, taking a deep breath, remaining calm, and objectively assessing the situation is advised.

Principles abqalbi out Avoid backbiting and slander:

Here are key principles to follow in order to avoid backbiting and slander in Islam:

1. Fear Allah in Speech and Action

Always remember that every word is recorded by angels. Speak only what pleases Allah.

"Not a word does he utter, but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it)." (Surah Qaf 50:18)

2. Verify Before Speaking

Never repeat or spread information without confirming its truth, especially if it harms someone's reputation.

"If a wicked person comes to you with news, verify it..." (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:6)

3. Speak Good or Stay Silent

The Prophet (PBUH) said: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent." (Bukhari & Muslim)

4. Avoid Suspicion and Spying

Backbiting often starts with suspicion or eavesdropping, both of which are prohibited.

"Avoid much suspicion. Indeed, some suspicion is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other." (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12)

5. Honor Your Fellow Muslim

Defend the dignity of others in their absence as you would wish for yourself.

“The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim; he neither oppresses him nor humiliates him.” (Muslim)

6. Mind Your Own Business

Avoid talking about things that don’t concern you.

“From the perfection of one’s Islam is leaving that which does not concern him.” (Tirmidhi)

7. Correct Others Kindly

If someone starts backbiting, gently remind them it is haram or change the subject.

8. Keep the Company of Righteous People

Surround yourself with those who fear Allah and avoid idle talk.

9. Repent When You Slip

If you fall into backbiting, repent immediately, and if possible, make amends.

10. Remember the Example of the Prophet (PBUH)

The Prophet never spoke ill of others and always maintained respect, even for his enemies 

Disadvantage of backbiting and Slander:

Here are the main disadvantages and harms of backbiting and slander in Islam and daily life:

1. Disobedience to Allah

Backbiting and slander are major sins clearly condemned in the Qur'an and Hadith.

They displease Allah and result in punishment unless sincerely repented for.

2. Loss of Good Deeds

On the Day of Judgment, good deeds will be taken from the backbiter and given to the victim.

The Prophet (PBUH) described this as the “bankrupt” person who loses everything due to harming others. (Muslim)

3. Broken Relationships

Backbiting causes mistrust, hatred, and division among family, friends, and the community.

Once trust is broken, it is hard to rebuild.

4. Creates a Toxic Environment

It spreads negativity, suspicion, and gossip, making the environment unhealthy for everyone.

5. Damages Reputation and Honor

Even if the words are true, sharing them behind someone’s back can deeply harm their dignity and standing.

6. Leads to Hypocrisy

It encourages double-faced behavior—kindness in front of people, harm behind their backs.

7. Sets a Bad Example

Children and younger people learn from what they see. Backbiting can normalize sin in families or communities.

8. Increases Inner Corruption

Speaking ill of others leads to arrogance, jealousy, and spiritual disease in the heart.

9. Brings Shame and Regret

Many feel deep guilt later for words spoken in haste or anger, especially when harm has been done.

10. Wastes Time and Energy

Instead of engaging in beneficial actions, one wastes time in useless and sinful talk.

Avoiding backbiting and slander protects your soul, your relationships, and your standing with Allah.

How to quit backbiting:

1. Move away from where the conversation is taking place. When you find yourself in an environment or conversation where backbiting is taking place, remove yourself from it 
2. Do not engage in the conversation stay quiet.
3. Maintain proper etiquette in different spaces...
4. Talk about issues, not people.

Tip to avoid backbiting:

I am confident that you will think twice about backbiting after reading this. Backbiting in the moment may provide temporary relief 

Does backbiting break wudu:

No backbiting, does not break the wudu. While backbiting is a serious sin and can invalidate one's fast, it does not invalidate wudu, which is a physical ritual of cleansing.

How do we stop backbiting:

To stop backbiting, both personally and socially, you can follow these key steps:

1. Strengthen Your Faith (Iman)

Remind yourself that Allah hears and sees everything.

Reflect on the seriousness of backbiting as a sin, especially in the Hereafter.

2. Practice Self-Control and Mindfulness

Think before you speak: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?

Avoid speaking when emotional or angry—these moments often lead to backbiting.

3. Change the Topic

If someone starts backbiting in your presence, politely change the subject to something beneficial or neutral.

4. Defend the Absent Person

Say something good about them or remind the speaker that it’s not right to speak ill of others.

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Whoever defends his brother in his absence, Allah will protect his face from the Fire on the Day of Judgment.” (Tirmidhi)

5. Leave the Gathering if Necessary

If you cannot stop the conversation or change the topic, walk away to avoid participating in sin.

6. Keep Good Company

Spend time with people who fear Allah and avoid gossip. Peer influence plays a big role in speech habits.

7. Focus on Your Own Shortcomings

When we reflect on our own flaws, we are less likely to speak about others.

Remember: correcting ourselves is more valuable than criticizing others.

8. Seek Forgiveness and Repent Regularly

If you slip into backbiting, make sincere tawbah (repentance) and seek forgiveness from Allah.

If possible, make amends with the person you spoke about.

9. Make Du’a for Others

Replace criticism with du’a for guidance and goodness for the person you’re tempted to talk about.

10. Remember the Analogy from the Qur’an

"Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it." (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12)

Visualizing this helps stop the desire to speak ill of others

How can we stop backbiting:

1. Fear Allah:

Whenever you are communicating with someone, remember Allah is watching you. Remember what he said in Quran about backbiting. Even if someone starts, you should hesitate to go along with them, fearing that you will gain Allah's wrath because of your unnecessary involvement. You should also remind yourself that backbiting will not only pull you away from Allah's Mercy it will also get you closer to the trap of Shaitan.

2. Fear death:

What will happen if death strikes at a time when we are deeply in a conversation backbiting someone? Does anyone want to meet such an end? So think about this whenever you are in a conversation. Insha Allah this will definitely help you to refrain from backbiting.

3. Make Excuses:

We have always heard it said: "Don't make Excuses! But when you find yourself in group of backbiters, simply make a polite excuse because you are not talking to an individual, but a group which can create more conflict. There is no need to say much, only a few words will suffice like " I am sorry, I have to go." This will make them realize that you are not interested in such conversations and soon that will come to know what they are doing.

4. Make them realize:

If you happen to have such a conversation with an individual, tell them that you have nothing to do with this and it's useless because it could not make an impact with the person who we are talking about. And make them realize the bad effects that would bring both in this world and in the hereafter. Thai is the best way to teach others and if you are  bold enough to express this among  a group of people who are backbiting, then go a head and make them realize too.

5. Put yourself in his or her shoes:

At certain instances, backbiting may interest you when talking to someone. In this situation, think about yourself. Remembering Yourself  of this will not only help you to avoid backbiting but will also make you more humble and generous.

6. Repel evil with Good:

This is the best way to refrain from backbiting and it will be more effective when you are among a group. You can repel them by describing the good qualities of the person whom they are criticizing. This will most probably make them feel guilty. And if you are templed to backbite someone, think about the good qualities they have. This will  put an end to your evil thoughts 

7. Be silent:

We are familiar with the saying, " Silence is golden ." But have you ever thought about why? Because it will let all of us refrains from speaking evil, which is the best way to keep our hearts pure.

Even Rasool Allah said to utter good word or to be silent, but is silence enough? Some people nod on everything, whether good or bad. They simply keep  nodding, thinking that it won't be a sin. But remember, even a slight gesture which is shown to favour the backbiting is also included.

8. No one is perfect:

Before backbiting, make sure that you are 100% perfect. If not, take a pen, no matter wherever you are, and list 10 of your defects.

9. Be Sympathetic:

Whenever you hear about someone's faults, feel sorry for them. Ask Allah to give them hidayat and thank him for keeping you away from such mistakes. This will surely lessen evil thoughts which pave the way for backbiting.

10. Don't Go:

It's not an unusual thing to hear about places that specialize in backbiting. If you know such places or if you happened to come across them, don't go. Avoid them as much as you because environment can rally make an impact on us. 

Expectations:

1. To advise:

If you want to get information from a scholar regarding a person's matter to give him advice, then you  can tell about him without mentioning his name.

2. To reclaim:

If a person has caused injustice to you, then you can complain about the person to someone in order to reclaim your rights.

3. To help:

If you see a person commuting sin, then you can tell it to someone with the intention to stop him from committing that particular sin.

4. To identify:

So as to identity a person, you can tell about him to someone.

5. To warn:

It is permissible to warn about someone who is bringing a bad effects to society, for example a thief.

Verses about backbiting and slander:

Here are key Qur’anic verses about backbiting and slander, along with English and Urdu translations:

1. Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12)

Arabic:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اجْتَنِبُوا كَثِيرًا مِّنَ الظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ الظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ ۖ وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا ۚ أَيُحِبُّ أَحَدُكُمْ أَن يَأْكُلَ لَحْمَ أَخِيهِ مَيْتًا فَكَرِهْتُمُوهُ ۚ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ تَوَّابٌ رَّحِيمٌ

English Translation:

"O you who have believed, avoid much suspicion. Indeed, some suspicion is sin. And do not spy or backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful."

Urdu Translation:

"اے ایمان والو! بہت گمانوں سے بچو، یقیناً بعض گمان گناہ ہوتے ہیں، اور نہ تجسس کرو اور نہ تم میں سے کوئی کسی کی غیبت کرے۔ کیا تم میں سے کوئی پسند کرے گا کہ وہ اپنے مردہ بھائی کا گوشت کھائے؟ تم اسے ناپسند کرتے ہو۔ اور اللہ سے ڈرو، بے شک اللہ توبہ قبول کرنے والا، رحم کرنے والا ہے۔"

2. Surah An-Nur (24:15)

Arabic:

إِذْ تَلَقَّوْنَهُ بِأَلْسِنَتِكُمْ وَتَقُولُونَ بِأَفْوَاهِكُم مَّا لَيْسَ لَكُم بِهِ عِلْمٌ وَتَحْسَبُونَهُ هَيِّنًا وَهُوَ عِندَ اللَّهِ عَظِيمٌ

English Translation:

"When you received it with your tongues and said with your mouths that of which you had no knowledge, and you thought it was insignificant, while it was, in the sight of Allah, tremendous."

Urdu Translation:

"جب تم اسے اپنی زبانوں سے دہراتے تھے اور اپنے مونہوں سے وہ بات کہہ دیتے تھے جس کا تمہیں کوئی علم نہ تھا، اور تم اسے ہلکی بات سمجھتے تھے، حالانکہ اللہ کے نزدیک وہ بہت بڑی بات تھی۔"

3. Surah Al-Ahzab (33:58)

Arabic:

وَالَّذِينَ يُؤْذُونَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ بِغَيْرِ مَا اكْتَسَبُوا فَقَدِ احْتَمَلُوا بُهْتَانًا وَإِثْمًا مُّبِينًا

English Translation:

"And those who harm believing men and believing women for something they did not do have certainly born upon themselves a slander and manifest sin."

Urdu Translation:

"اور جو ایمان والے مردوں اور عورتوں کو ایذا دیتے ہیں بغیر کسی جرم کے، انہوں نے تو بہتان اور کھلا گناہ اپنے اوپر لے لیا ہے۔"

Importance about backbiting and slander in Islam:

Importance of Avoiding Backbiting and Slander in Islam

In Islam, avoiding backbiting (غیبت) and slander (بہتان) is not just encouraged—it is a serious obligation. These sins are considered major moral and social crimes that harm individuals, break relationships, and damage communities. Their avoidance is essential for building a trustworthy, respectful, and spiritually healthy society.

1. Direct Command from Allah

The Qur'an strictly forbids backbiting and likens it to eating the flesh of a dead brother—a powerful image that shows its severity (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12).

Slandering someone falsely is a grave sin that brings divine punishment (Surah An-Nur 24:15-16).

2. Upholding Brotherhood and Unity

Islam teaches love, respect, and unity among Muslims. Backbiting and slander destroy that unity by spreading hatred, suspicion, and mistrust.

3. Protecting Honor and Dignity

One of the highest values in Islam is protecting the honor (‘ird) of every person. Talking behind someone’s back or spreading lies about them is a direct violation of that right.

4. Leads to Accountability on the Day of Judgment

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that a person who backbites may lose their good deeds to the person they harmed. This is known as moral bankruptcy in the Hereafter (Sahih Muslim).

5. Reflects True Character and Piety

A believer with strong faith avoids harming others with their tongue. True piety is shown not just in worship but in how we treat others, especially in their absence.

6. Encourages a Peaceful and Trustworthy Society

When people avoid gossip and slander, the environment becomes peaceful, respectful, and safe. Everyone can trust one another without fear of being spoken about behind their back.

7. Increases Self-Purification (Tazkiyah)

Avoiding backbiting and slander purifies the heart from jealousy, arrogance, and hatred, and draws a person closer to Allah.

Tip to avoid backbiting:

I am confident you will think twice about backbiting after reading this. Backbiting in the moment may provide you temporary relief, but know the only person you harm is yourself.

In the Hadith, it says the punishment for backbiting is that Allah will take away from your around for good deeds and give it to the one you hurt as an act of compensation .

On the flip side ....

If you are a victim of backbiting take comfort in knowing that they are only helping you on the day of judgement. Of course protect your character if you feel it is threatened but do so with integrity. Do not fall victim by engaging in the same game. We must show discipline and emotional fortitude and overcome such pretty altercations.

Allah knows best 

May he reward us for being among the ones who take a moral high ground.

Conclusion

Avoiding backbiting and slander is essential for both personal spiritual growth and communal well-being. A tongue that is protected from sin is a sign of a heart connected to Allah. By avoiding these harmful behaviors, Muslims not only protect others—but also safeguard their own Hereafter. Now we know what backbiting is and how evil it is to backbite someone. So let's avoid it and try to correct ourselves first so that we can inspire others too, insha Allah.

When I was taken up to heaven I pass by people who had nails of copper and were scratching their faces and their breasts. I asked: Who are these people who are these people O Jibraeel? He replied they are those aspersed people's honour.