إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ يُحِبُّونَ أَن تَشِيعَ ٱلْفَـٰحِشَةُ فِى ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ لَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ فِى ٱلدُّنْيَا وَٱلْـَٔاخِرَةِ ۚ وَٱللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ 19
Translations
Indeed, those who like that immorality should be spread [or publicized] among those who have believed will have a painful punishment in this world and the Hereafter. And Allāh knows and you do not know.
Transliteration
Inna alladhina yuhibbuna an tashi'a al-fahishaatu fi alladhina amanu lahum adhab alim fi al-dunya wa al-akhirah. Wa Allahu ya'lamu wa antum la ta'lamun.
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah condemns those who desire and love to spread immorality and indecency among the believers, warning them of severe punishment in both this world and the Hereafter. According to classical scholars like Al-Qurtubi and Ibn Kathir, this specifically addresses those who spread rumors, slander, and false accusations that damage the reputation of believers, particularly referencing the incident of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) when false allegations were spread about her. The ayah emphasizes that Allah knows the intentions of those who spread such filth, while humans remain ignorant of the hidden consequences of their actions.
Revelation Context
This ayah was revealed in the context of Surah An-Nur (Chapter 24), which deals extensively with modesty, chastity, and the protection of honor and reputation. It follows verses addressing the incident of the false accusation against Aisha (the 'Ifk incident'), where hypocrites and those with diseased hearts spread scandalous lies about the Prophet's wife. The broader context of Surah An-Nur emphasizes Islamic moral standards and the severe consequences of spreading indecency.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.' (Sahih Bukhari 6474). Additionally, 'The worst of people are those who spread tales and separate friends.' (Sahih Muslim 2606, related to spreading discord through false speech).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that spreading rumors, slander, or immoral content carries severe divine punishment, and that we should guard our tongues carefully and refrain from propagating anything that corrupts the moral fabric of the Muslim community. It reminds us that while we may think our words have no consequence, Allah sees all intentions and will hold us accountable for spreading filth and discord among believers.