Page 173 - Quranic Wisdom - New.indd

Quranic Wisdom

Criticism based on facts is constructive, but making allegations
without any basis in fact is the worst kind of crime.
In this regard, two courses are open to all: if an individual has
an accusation to make against anyone and he has undeniable
proof in support of what he has to say, then he is allowed to
express his views. If, on the other hand, he has an adverse
opinion about anyone, but has no evidence to support his
negative remarks, then he has to remain silent. No one is allowed
to make damaging remarks against anyone if he cannot produce
irrefutable proofs of the truth of his statement.
The Prophet once said: “If you make a negative remark
against someone while that person is innocent, then it will have
a boomerang effect. Your negative remark will turn back upon
you and you will find that remark being applied to you.” (Sahih
al-Bukhari, 6045)

According to Islamic teachings, character assassination
is a heinous crime. An act of this kind is against
humanity, against ethical values.

The practice of character assassination is injurious to the
whole of society; it spreads the feeling of mistrust. It causes
misunderstanding and the result is very dangerous, for everyone
becomes suspicious of the other members of society.
In such a society, no healthy activity is possible and no positive
planning can be done. The habit of character assassination is bad
for all and good for none.
The whole of society must be alert to anyone indulging in this
kind of activity and the wrongdoer must be openly condemned.
Indeed, social ostracism is the only check by which this kind of
baneful habit can be eliminated from society.
Character assassination is more dangerous than physical

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