Understanding the Gravity of False Accusation in Islam
In Islam, sinning is harmful to one’s soul, but falsely accusing someone is an even graver injustice. Such accusations, known as Tuhmat, hurt innocent people, destroy relationships, and destabilize society. False accusations are like arrows that damage a person’s honour and reputation without evidence. This article discusses the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on false accusation, its consequences, and the severe warnings associated with it, as presented in various hadiths.
In this article, we explore eight significant hadiths on false accusations, with each hadith detailed in Arabic, Urdu, and English translations. We’ll discuss each hadith’s core message, its reference, and important points that shed light on the destructive nature of false accusations. By following these teachings, we can foster a more compassionate and truthful society.
The Consequence of Slandering a Muslim
Hadith in English
“Whoever mentions a shortcoming of a Muslim that is not found in him, Allah Almighty will place him in Radghat al-Khabāl until the punishment for his sin is completed.”
Hadith in Urdu
“جو شخص کسی مسلمان کے بارے میں ایسی کمی کا ذکر کرے جو اس میں موجود نہ ہو، اللہ تعالیٰ اسے ردغت الخبال میں ڈال دے گا جب تک کہ اس کے گناہ کی سزا پوری نہ ہو جائے۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“”
من ذكر عيباً في مسلم ليس فيه، أسكنه الله في ردغة الخبال حتى تنقضي عقوبته.””
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
This hadith emphasizes the severe punishment awaiting those who make false accusations. Radghat al-Khabāl is described as a place of intense punishment, indicating that slandering a Muslim is a major sin. By highlighting this, the hadith warns against gossip and slander, urging believers to respect the honour of others.
False Accusation and the Bridge of Hell
Hadith in English
“Whoever accuses a Muslim to disgrace him, Allah Almighty will stop him on the Bridge of Hell until he is punished by what he uttered.”
Hadith in Urdu
“جو شخص کسی مسلمان پر اسے بدنام کرنے کے لیے الزام لگاتا ہے، اللہ تعالیٰ اسے جہنم کے پل پر روک دے گا جب تک کہ اسے اس کے کہے گئے کے مطابق سزا نہ دے۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“
من قذف مسلماً ليخزيه، أوقفه الله على جسر جهنم حتى يعاقب بما نطق به.”
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
The hadith provides a vivid image of the punishment on the Day of Judgment. Being stopped on the Bridge of Hell signifies a major obstacle to Paradise. The purpose of the hadith is to dissuade Muslims from slanderous accusations, stressing that such behaviour is unworthy of a true believer.
False Witness and the Consequence of Fire
Hadith in English
“Before the feet of a false witness move, Allah Almighty makes the Fire necessary for him.”
Hadith in Urdu
“جھوٹے گواہ کے قدم حرکت کرنے سے پہلے اللہ تعالیٰ اس کے لیے آگ واجب کر دیتا ہے۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“
من قام بشهادة زور، أوجب الله له النار قبل أن تتحرك قدماه.“
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
This hadith addresses the seriousness of false testimony. Even before the act is completed, the punishment is decreed, showing that Allah disdains dishonesty. Bearing false witness destroys trust and fuels injustices, which this hadith explicitly condemns.
The Effect of Accusing a Chaste Woman
Hadith in English
“Accusing a chaste woman of adultery destroys a hundred years’ worth of good deeds.”
Hadith in Urdu
“ایک پاک دامن عورت پر زنا کا الزام لگانا سو سال کی نیکیوں کو برباد کر دیتا ہے۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“
من رمى امرأة عفيفة بالزنا، ضاع عمله مائة عام.”
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
In Islam, accusing someone without proof is a grave injustice, and this hadith particularly underscores the protection of women’s honor. Islam places high regard on one’s reputation and condemns baseless accusations that could lead to ruinous consequences.
The True Impoverished Person on Judgment Day
Hadith in English
“The impoverished person from my nation is the one who will come forth on the Day of Judgment with prayers, fasting, and zakat but would have cursed someone, accused another, and wronged people.”
Hadith in Urdu
“میری امت میں اصل مفلس وہ ہوگا جو قیامت کے دن نماز، روزہ، اور زکوة لے کر آئے گا مگر اس نے کسی کو گالی دی، کسی پر الزام لگایا، اور لوگوں پر ظلم کیا۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“
المفلس من أمتي من يأتي يوم القيامة بصلاة وصيام وزكاة، وقد شتم هذا، ورمى هذا، وأخذ مال هذا.”
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
The hadith portrays the shocking reality that good deeds are not enough if one harms others. Falsely accusing others nullifies one’s good deeds, emphasizing the need for kindness and fairness to truly prosper in the hereafter.
The Dangers of Suspicion
Hadith in English
“Beware of suspicion, for suspicion is the worst of false tales.”
Hadith in Urdu
“بدگمانی سے بچو، کیونکہ بدگمانی سب سے بری جھوٹ ہے۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“
إياكم والظن، فإن الظن أكذب الحديث.”
Reference of the Hadith
This hadith from Sahih Al-Bukhari encourages believers to avoid suspicion.
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
Suspicion often leads to false accusations, which breed mistrust. Islam advises believers to think well of others, maintain a healthy community and guarding against unnecessary misunderstandings.
The Fate of a Tale-Bearer (Qattat)
Hadith in English
“A ‘Qattat’ will not enter Paradise.”
Hadith in Urdu
“قطات جنت میں داخل نہیں ہوگا۔”
Hadith in Arabic
“
القتات لا يدخل الجنة.”
Important Points Discussed in the Hadith
A tale-bearer incites hatred and enmity, creating divisions within the community. The hadith discourages gossip and urges believers to protect others’ honour rather than engage in slander.
Building a Trustworthy Society
These hadiths serve as a powerful reminder of the harm caused by false accusations. Accusing someone unjustly not only harms the victim but also brings serious consequences to the accuser. By respecting others and refraining from false accusations, we can build a more compassionate, trusting, and righteous community. Following these teachings promotes justice, unity, and integrity in our interactions with others.