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Sadiya Abdurahman

Backbiting and the distribution of one’s wealth for the sake of Allah (God) are two essential emphases in the narrations of Prophet Muhamed (peace be upon him). As a matter of fact, it is indeed crucial in the teachings of Islam.

Backbiting harms yourself, family, friends and the whole society at large. It is therefore mentioned in the Quran that it is as if you are eating the flesh of your brother/sister when you are backing or revealing others’ faults. It is a grave sin in Islam and it should be erased from our lifestyle at large.

The second element is the distribution of one’s wealth for the sake of Allah. This is a hard task for many people because wealth is of worldly gain and the nafs (soul) itself seeks wealth more than anything else in life. Hence, we are in a constant journey to acquiring more money, and once we do, we want more. The Prophet (pbuh) spoke a lot of times against this pleasure in seeking more wealth and not distributing for the sake of Allah. In this case, for the sake of Allah means to give your wealth to help others, not Allah Himself. Because by sharing, you tie more closeness with your family, community, and with Allah. It is documented that most donations that go toward charity networks are not by rich people, rather people who barely meet the ‘middle class’ level. To give it before it consumes your heart is something we should pay heed to.

1.       The Prophet (pbuh) said,

“O you who believe with your tongue only, your believe does not yet enter your heart. Do not slander a Muslim or tell his faults nor even look for your brother’s faults, because whoever uncovers his brother’s fault, will have his own faults revealed by Allah even in his own house”

2.       The Prophet (pbuh) said,

Not a day passes but Allah sends two angels to every servant of His, and the angel says, “O, Allah, reward those who spend their wealth for Your sake,” and the other says, “O Allah, punish those who are stingy.” (Bukahri & Muslim) .

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