What is the ruling of Sharia on the testimony of a person who witnessed a crime of zina (unlawful sexual intercourse), and whose testimony resulted in great harm to the woman and her family, while others would be harmed if he did not testify truthfully?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Such crimes inevitably inflict harm upon the family. Nevertheless, the hadd (prescribed punishment) and li'an (oath of condemnation) have been legislated. If the truth is not revealed, the husband and his family will face other harms, even if the woman is not guilty. Harms are inevitable in all circumstances, but there is a vast difference between them occurring rightfully or wrongfully. The questioner should bear witness to the truth he knows. He will not be accusing the woman of adultery; rather, he will be testifying to the reality and details pertaining to his work, if the judge requests him to do so.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 181753
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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