What is the ruling on one who mistreats their spouse's family, harms them, and lies about them and slanders them, despite memorizing the Quran and attending religious lectures? And do these good deeds erase those bad deeds?

Harming people unjustly is among the forbidden acts that displease Allah. Lying and causing discord among people are among the worst characteristics and are forbidden. Allah Almighty says: "And those who harm believing men and believing women for [something] other than what they have earned have certainly borne a slander and a manifest sin."

In contrast, engaging in memorizing the Quran and attending circles of knowledge are among the best deeds that draw one closer to Allah. It is fitting for someone who is keen on this to be far from bad manners and keen on noble ones, for that is among the greatest fruits of faith and worship, and among the highest objectives of the message of Islam.

Indeed, it is authentically reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, that "I was only sent to perfect noble character," and that the most beloved to him and the closest to him in station on the Day of Resurrection is "the best of you in character," and that "There is nothing heavier in the Balance than good character."

As for the expiation of sins through good deeds, "Indeed, good deeds do away with evil deeds." This applies to minor sins. As for major sins, they require repentance, and sins related to the rights of people necessitate seeking forgiveness from their owners. We hope that Allah will grant success in repentance and guide to the best of character for whoever maintains attending circles of knowledge and learning the Quran.