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Is recalling sins and searching for similar stories considered uncovering what Allah has concealed and aiding in wrongdoing, or could it be beneficial in understanding their causes and resisting them, or is that from the embellishment of Satan?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

For a penitent to recall past sins, if it is for the purpose of relishing and delighting in them, this undermines the sincerity of their repentance. However, recalling sins to evoke a feeling of humility and brokenness before God, to ward off self-conceit, and to appreciate God's favor in granting success for repentance—this is commendable. Similarly, seeking out stories of sinners to draw admonition and lessons is permissible. But if it is for the purpose of relishing the thought of their transgressions, then it is blameworthy. The general rule is for a Muslim to conceal their sins, but it is permissible to disclose a transgression out of a recognized need or benefit, such as seeking help or prayers, without elaborating on the details. This is not considered blameworthy open disclosure.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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