HAVING A GOOD
OPINION OF OTHERS

Once in Madinah, an incident occurred that involved mutual suspicion and mistrust. On that occasion, the Quran declared: “Why, when you heard it, did the believing men and believing women not think well of one another and say, ‘This is clearly a slander’?” (24:12)

From this, we learn that Islam encourages an atmosphere of positive thinking within society. When people hear something negative about someone, not only should they avoid repeating it, but they should also avoid believing it in their hearts. Their minds should remain filled with good thoughts at all times.

Another verse of the Quran says: “Avoid much suspicion. Indeed, some suspicion is sin.” (49:12) The causes of division and conflict in society often begin with suspicion. If suspicion is addressed at the very beginning, mutual relationships will not deteriorate, and a peaceful, humane environment in society can be preserved. Avoiding suspicion is, in essence, like putting out discord at its source.

In a hadith, the Prophet of Islam said: “Beware of suspicion, for suspicion is the most false of speech.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 2563)

There are many other hadiths that clarify what Islam teaches on this matter. People should keep their hearts pure towards others. If something negative is heard about someone, it should never be accepted solely on the basis of having heard it. Either one should interpret it positively and dismiss it from their mind, or—if there is a reason to form an opinion—one should investigate the matter thoroughly. Without a complete investigation, no judgment should be formed, and no action should be taken based on it.

The kind of person Islam promotes is one who maintains a good opinion of others and whose heart is filled with positive assumptions about them.