Comprehensive Definition
QATTĀT (قتات): In Islamic terminology, a QATTĀT refers to a slanderer or one who engages in tale-bearing. This term often carries a strong negative connotation and the individual who practices it is considered to be engaging in a major sin.
Etymology
The term QATTĀT (قتات) derives from the root “Q-T-T” (قطّ), which implies the act of cutting or clipping. In this context, it metaphorically extends to one who ‘cuts’ friendly or peaceful relations by spreading harmful, slanderous tales.
Background
Tale-bearing or slander is sternly condemned in Islam. The Qur’an advises against fulfilling unfounded trust in orders like those of tale-bearers or any gossipers:
“And do not obey every worthless habitual swearer.” ✋ (Qur’an 68:10)
This ethos is strengthened by a widely referenced Hadith:
“A tale-bearing person will not enter Paradise.” 🌈 (Mishkāt, book xxii. ch. x. pt. 1)
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities:
- Judaism & Christianity: Tale-bearing is also condemned, indicated in Leviticus 19:16, “Do not go about spreading slander among your people.”
- Hinduism: Speaking unwarranted ill of others contradicts principles found in the Bhagavad Gita.
Differences:
- Islam: Slander results in severe social and spiritual consequences, impacting one’s afterlife.
- Western Society: Though discouraged, the repercussions of slander might be more legally oriented rather than spiritually significant.
Synonyms
- Fitna (فتنة): Scandal or chaos.
- Namimah (نميمة): Gossiping or backbiting.
- Nimshaw (نمشي): Another term for tale-bearer.
Antonyms
- Sadiq (صادق): Honest or truthful person.
- Amin (أمين): Trustworthy individual.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ghiba (غيبة): Backbiting or speaking ill about someone behind their back.
- Iftira (افتراء): Spread of false accusations.
Exciting Facts
- Historical Perspective: The concept of tale-bearing has continuously been a contentious subject involving community estrangement across civilizations.
- Psychological Insight: According to social psychologists, individuals often engage in tale-bearing to seek validation or elevate their social standing.
- Social Impact: Communities that minimize tale-bearing showcase higher levels of trust and cohesion.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Al-Ghazali: “One who chronicles malicious gossip fans the flames of discord and breaks the cords of empathy among people.”
- Jalal ad-Dīn Rumi: “Beware, for the tale-bearer splits souls as they split words against the soft hearts of the dreamers.”
Suggested Literature & Further Studies
- “Ethics of Islamic Life” by M. Al-Aghadar (2023)
- “The Wisdom of Sufism” by Iman Khlebi (2020)
- “Kith and Kin: The Social Ethics in Islam” by Saida Karram (2019)
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Strive to hold your tongue and speak the warm tunes of truth, bridging hearts and weaving eternal ties of human empathy and kindness.
Safe Keepers of Peaceful Words,
— Farid Alam, October 2023
