Assalamu alaykum {{first_name|Barakah Seeker}}

Picture this: You are sitting with friends. The talk drifts from one topic to another, and soon, someone’s name comes up. You add a comment, harmless in your mind, maybe even “true”. Everyone laughs. The conversation moves on.

But the angels don’t. They record it all.

That is how Allah described ghibah (backbiting) in the Quran. A sin so grave, Allah compared it to the most disgusting act imaginable. So that we would understand the ugliness of speaking badly about someone in their absence. Whether it is through gossiping or backbiting.

Even if every word you spoke was true, it still counts as ghibah (backbiting). And what if it was not? Then it becomes buhtan (slander), an even greater sin. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ also said:

Our words weigh heavily, and often, we realize their impact too late.

Sometimes we just want to “let it out”, but in doing so, we expose someone’s faults. The intention may not be evil, but the result is still sinful.

Talking about others can make us feel closer to people, a false sense of bonding that is built on someone else’s dignity.

In moments of gossip, we forget that Allah is watching, the angels are recording, and our good deeds are being transferred.

And that is how ghibah (backbiting) slowly hardens the heart.
The more we do it, the less we feel guilt. Until one day, it becomes normal.

Ask yourself: Would I say this if they were here?
If not, remain silent. Silence never needs repentance.

Part of being a Muslim is repenting to Allah and making things right with those we have wronged. Ask Allah for forgiveness, and do the same with the person you hurt.

You do not need to bring up what was said behind their back. That might cause more harm than good.

If telling them would make things worse, or if there is no way to reach them, then make the following dua sincerely for them instead:

Next time you are witnessing backbiting:

This Sin Is Worse Than Zina – And You May Be Doing It Daily by Towards Eternity.

It beautifully explains how easily we fall into it, and how to purify our hearts from this disease. They also explain when backbiting is allowed.

Protecting your tongue is one of the hardest forms of discipline, yet one of the most rewarding. Each time you hold back a harmful word, you are not just staying silent, you are earning a reward, In Sha Allah.

That is why we created The Jannah Flashcards: To help Muslims like you reconnect with their purpose, discipline, and accountability. One reflection at a time.

Each card contains verified facts from Quran and Hadith to remind you of what you are truly striving for: Allah’s Pleasure and eternal peace.

Join the waitlist before the end of October and receive 25% off when it launches, In Sha Allah. Your daily reminder of what truly matters: Striving for Jannah through sincerity, consistency, and reflection.

No conversation, no laughter, and no group chat is worth risking your place in Jannah. Every time you stop yourself from speaking ill, remember: Allah hears the silence you choose for His sake, and He loves it.

Reflection of the day:
Who did I speak about today, and would I be at peace if they knew?

I pray this newsletter reminds you to train your tongue, soften your heart, and strengthen your journey to Jannah, In Sha Allah.

With love,
Fatima
Founder of The Barakah Kit