I want to ask about the public application of Sharia rulings and the shaming of disobedient individuals, and how this aligns with Islam’s command to conceal the faults of sinners, especially since the public application of rulings leads to the exposure of the disobedient person and their family, and even in cases of capital punishment, shaming will harm their family and children, even though the deceased will not be affected.

All praise is due to Allah, and prayers and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah.

The text addresses the topic of concealment (ستر) in Islamic law and the implementation of punishments (hudud). It emphasizes that the Sharia encourages concealing those who commit sins and discourages publicizing sins. It clarifies that the punishment of Qisas (retribution) for intentional murder does not require the presence of witnesses for its implementation, whereas the punishment for adultery (zina) must be witnessed by a group of believers (طائفة من المؤمنين) for legal reasons. It explains that this does not contradict the principle of concealment for several reasons: the punishment is only implemented either through confession or the testimony of four witnesses; the presence of the group serves the interest of deterrence and admonition; and the group may consist of only one person. It also clarifies that any harm that might befall the reputation of the offender’s family is not considered, as every soul is responsible for its own actions.