by mocking and mimicking someone and belittling the object of their ridicule.

Some dress up backbiting as astonishment, saying: “I am astonished at so-and-so! How can he fail to do such-and-such? And so-and-so—how could such-and-such have come from him? How could he have done such-and-such?” Thus they bring up his name under the guise of expressing astonishment.

Some make a show of sorrow, saying: “Poor so-and-so! What has happened to him and how things have turned out for him have saddened me.” Those listening suppose that he is grieving for the man and feels sorry for him, while inwardly he gloats over his misfortune. If he could, he would add to his suffering. He may even mention him in the presence of his enemies so that they too can gloat over him. This and similar behaviour are among the gravest diseases of the heart and attempts to deceive Allah and His creation.

Some dress up backbiting as anger and denunciation of wrongdoing, employing various forms of embellished speech, while their intention is other than what they outwardly profess. Allah is the One whose help is sought.