What is backbiting and what kinds of speech are considered backbiting?

Backbiting, known as "ghibah" in Arabic, refers to mentioning someone in a way that they would dislike, particularly when speaking about them behind their back. This concept is emphasized in several hadith. For instance, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explained, "Do you know what backbiting is?" When asked for clarification, he stated, "Mentioning your brother in a way he dislikes." The companions further inquired, "What if what I say about him is true?" The Prophet responded, If what you say is true, you have backbitten him; and if it is not true, you have slandered him. Sahih Muslim 45:91SunniSAHIH

Ibn Kathir elaborates that even if the statement made is true, it still constitutes backbiting if it is shared in a context where the person being spoken about would find it objectionable. He further clarifies that slander is worse, as it involves falsehoods about a person's character.

In addition to these points, the Qur'an also addresses the nature of harmful speech. Surah Al-Hujuraat states, O ye who believe! Shun much suspicion; for lo! some suspicion is a crime. And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would one of you love to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Ye abhor that (so abhor the other)! 49:12 This verse highlights the gravity of backbiting by likening it to a repulsive act, reinforcing the moral imperative to avoid such behavior.

Thus, backbiting encompasses any speech that criticizes or reveals the faults of another individual in their absence, particularly if it is done without their knowledge or consent. It is important to note that while it is permissible to speak about someone's wrongdoings if it serves a just purpose, such as warning others about them, this should be approached with caution and integrity, as outlined in the interpretations of various scholars.