Is the heart's ill-suspicion, unaccompanied by word or deed, considered a sin between a servant and his Lord that necessitates seeking absolution?
What is forgiven concerning inner thoughts ( al-nafs) are those thoughts that come to mind involuntarily, as long as they do not settle and persist with the person. This is unlike firm intentions and resolutions (hamm and 'azm) settled in the heart. All actions of the heart are subject to accountability, such as doubt, disbelief, hypocrisy, malice, envy, and ill-will.
The texts of Islamic law have consistently indicated accountability for settled intentions of the heart, including suspicion and accusation of a Muslim without clear evidence. From this is the Almighty's saying: (O YOU WHO BELIEVE, AVOID MUCH SUSPICION; INDEED, SOME SUSPICION IS SINFUL). And the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: (Beware of suspicion, for suspicion is the falsest of speech.)
What is forbidden regarding suspicion is passing judgment on a Muslim whose outward appearance is righteousness and uprightness, without any evidence or indication, because it is among the diseases of the heart. Consequently, allowing evil suspicion to settle in the heart and not treating it leads to accountability.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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