l-m-z

Description

The Arabic root لمز (l-m-z) carries the core meaning of finding fault through gestures, subtle mockery, or indirect criticism, often involving physical signs like winking or pointing to ridicule someone behind their back or through concealed means. In the Quran, this root condemns those who engage in covert backbiting and scornful behavior that undermines others' dignity, contrasting with open slander. The term emphasizes the moral prohibition against both verbal and non-verbal forms of belittling others, making it a significant concept in Islamic ethics regarding proper social conduct and respect for human dignity.