one of them, unless there is only one witness relaying their testimony, in which case his testimony is inadmissible and he himself is liable to the prescribed punishment because he stands alone. It has also been said that he is not liable to that punishment.

Thus, there are three opinions concerning those who relay the testimony of others when they themselves number fewer than four or relay testimony from fewer than four:

The first is that they are not liable to the prescribed punishment, whether they number more than one or only one.

The second is that they are liable to the prescribed punishment, whether they number more than one or only one.

The third is that a lone witness is liable to the prescribed punishment, whereas a group of more than one is not.

Section

If, however, a witness says, “I heard so-and-so say that so-and-so has committed unlawful intercourse,” without formally transmitting that person’s testimony, he is not deemed an accuser unless he is unable to establish this through two witnesses. There is no disagreement concerning this. The same applies if a man says, in the presence of the ruler or anyone else, “So-and-so says that you have committed unlawful intercourse,” even if he is not formally transmitting that person’s testimony. Reflect on this, and you will find it correct, if Allah Most High wills. Success comes through Him alone.