What is the ruling regarding a person saying to another, "Eat air," by way of disdain?
Mocking others is forbidden because it generates malice and hatred and stems from arrogance. Allah has warned the arrogant and those who belittle people ("ghamitu an-nas"). Among the characteristics of a Muslim is that other Muslims are safe from his tongue and hand. The word mentioned has no legal prohibition in terms of its wording, although it is better that it not be uttered by a Muslim due to the malice and hatred that might result from it.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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