The Qur’an says, “…Avoid excessive suspicion, verily some suspicion is sinful, and do not spy on others… (to find out the faults of others) …” (Surah Hujarat V.12)

This verse prohibits the act of suspicion and “Tajassus” – spying or prying into the faults of others. An alternative reading of the Qur’anic injunction “La Tajassasu” is “La Tahassasu”. Hazrat Abu Hurayrah (RA) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “…do not spy on one another; do not look for the faults of others…” (Bukhari & Muslim)

The term Tahassus (searching), like Tajassus (spying) could have an evil connotation when it is applied to the private lives of others, in which case Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has prohibited it. The verse signifies that one may take into account what is presented in evidence, but it is not permissible to actively seek out faults.

Hazrat Abu Barzah Al Aslami t narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Do not speak ill of Muslims behind their backs, and do not search for their faults, for he who searches out their faults will have his faults searched out by Allah, and he whose faults are searched out by Allah will be exposed by Him, even whilst he be in the interior of his house.” (Abu Dawood)

Tajassus (spying) and Tahassus (searching) include secretly listening to a conversation of people without their permission, or eavesdropping at their doors.

A Muslim should be cognizant of the finer aspects of Social conduct which forms part of the character and worship of a Muslim. Good character and noble qualities will weigh heavier on the scale of deeds than other acts of Ibadah and worship.