and clears one’s liability with respect to the Muslim’s honour. Allah knows best.

2 – Al-Ghazali states in Ihya’ ‘Ulum al-Din: “Be aware that it is obligatory for the backbiter to feel remorse, repent, and be saddened by what he has done, thereby discharging the right of Allah Most High. After that, he must seek the pardon of the person he maligned so that the latter may forgive him, releasing him from the injustice he committed.”

Al-Hasan al-Basri said: “It is enough for him to seek forgiveness; he need not ask for pardon.”

Mujahid said: “The expiation for having devoured your brother’s flesh is to praise him and supplicate for his well-being.”