Is praying for a Muslim's guidance considered backbiting?
Seeking guidance for oneself or for others is one of the best supplications. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, prayed for guidance for Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, for Abu Hurairah's mother, and for other people in general. As for the statement by Sheikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, it has been misunderstood by the speaker, as he was referring to people who display backbiting in the guise of piety and righteousness. They resort to it by mentioning the faults of others while outwardly appearing to pray for them. This is what Al-Ghazali and Ibn al-Jawzi call "the most malicious type of backbiting," and it is considered hypocrisy, wickedness, and an evil intention, having no relation to supplicating for a Muslim's guidance.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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