The Ruling on being Suspicious of a Muslim who Appears to be Just
Question :
Is having bad thoughts about others categorically forbidden; please explain. May Allah reward you.
Answer:
Allâh Almighty says:
"O you who believe! Avoid much suspicions, indeed some suspicions are sins."
Not every suspicion is a sin. A suspicion that is supported by other evidence may bring one closer to the level of certainty; however, when you suspect someone based merely on a hunch then that is forbidden. For example, suppose that you see another man who from what you can see, is a good Muslim - with a woman, it is not allowed for you to accuse him of being with a stranger, someone who is neither his wife nor one of the female relatives he is allowed to be alone with. A person sins by this kind of suspicion.
The scholars say, "It is forbidden to suspect and accuse a Muslim who appears to be just." But if there is a reason in the Shari'ah to suspect someone, then this kind of suspicion is permitted. And Allâh Almighty knows best.
Source:
Ibn 'Uthaimin
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 8 Pages 412-413
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