How sound are the narrations mentioned on the authority of Ibn Mas’ud, Ibn ‘Umar, and Ibn Al-Qayyim concerning gloating and the danger of taunting others about their sins?
The Hadith "Calamity is entrusted to speech" is very weak when attributed مرفوعًا (directly) to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him. However, it is authentically reported موقوفًا (as a statement) from Ibn Mas'ud. The intent behind it is to guard one's tongue and to be wary of shaming or gloating over a Muslim. Statements from the Salaf (pious predecessors) have been narrated that support this meaning, such as the saying of Ibn Mas'ud: "If I were to mock a dog, I would fear that I might become a dog." As for the saying "If I were to taunt a pregnant woman about her pregnancy, I would fear that I might become pregnant," attributed to Ibn Umar, it has not been found. What has been attributed to Ibn al-Qayyim in a specific wording has not been located, but he did say: "Whoever laughs at people, will be laughed at; and whoever shames his brother for an act, will be afflicted by it." Therefore, a Muslim must advise his brother, not shame him, and he must love for people what he loves for himself, and he must verify what he transmits.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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