What is the ruling on spreading the anecdote about Ash'ab and his greed and his memorization of the Quran, and is it permissible to spread it given that it reaches hundreds of people?

Joking is of two types: permissible and forbidden. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Indeed, I joke, but I only speak the truth." His joking was infrequent, because excessive joking hardens the heart and engenders animosity. If you ascertain the veracity of this anecdote from reliable sources, then there is no harm in publishing it, provided that such instances are not frequent. However, if you doubt its authenticity, then refrain from publishing it.