Nameemah (Back Biting to Destroy Relations) from a Kafir (Non-Muslim)

Question 5850

I am a new convert to Islam, and I have a Christian brother who lives with me.
My brother does not like a person, who used to be a friend, that helped me to become a Muslim, and my brother told me some bad things about that friend.
So I had a big fight with this friend and we don't talk any more. Did I do wrong?
By the way, this friend used to ask me where I go and he used to call me a lot.
Do you think it is wrong to cut my relationship with this friend? P.S. I know that this friend likes me very much...And I think he is a good Muslim.

Answer

Praise be to Allah.

Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah)! How did you cut off your ties with your Muslim brother because of some news about him that was brought by a non-Muslim?

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O you who believe! If a rebellious evil person comes to you with news verify it…” [49:6].

This person is not just a “rebellious, evil person” (fasiq), he is also a kafir (non-Muslim), so how could you believe what he said and on that basis cut off ties with your Muslim brother? Indeed, what you have done is wrong, and you must go back to this Muslim friend, because it is not permissible for a Muslim to forsake his brother for more than three days. Since he likes you and was the reason why you became Muslim, you owe him a great deal. How can you cut him off? Go back to him and do not leave him unless there is some clear evidence and proof that you should forsake him for some serious matter that goes against Islam.

We ask Allah to grant us and you guidance and strength.

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Nameemah (Back Biting to Destroy Relations) from a Kafir (Non-Muslim)

Question 5850

Answer