How can a Muslim's concealment (of sins) be a Sunnah and not an obligation, given the prohibition of (shedding) a Muslim's blood, (taking) their property, and (violating) their honor, and Allah's severe warning to those who love to see indecency spread among the believers, and His promise to expose on the Day of Judgment whoever exposes a Muslim?

Scholars have differed on the ruling regarding concealing a Muslim's faults. Some have said it is obligatory for one who is not known for causing harm or corruption, based on the hadith (definition): "Whoever conceals a Muslim, Allah Almighty will conceal him on the Day of Resurrection." Others have said it is recommendable. However, they agreed that one who openly commits sins or wrongs a Muslim should not be concealed; rather, their matter should be brought before the ruler to achieve the public good.