Is Indifference Towards Others' Sins Acceptable?

In the teachings of the Holy Quran and Islamic principles, indifference towards sins and wrongdoings that occur in society is not only incorrect but is severely condemned and goes against the very spirit of divine guidance. Islam is a comprehensive religion that places significant emphasis on both individual and collective well-being, desiring a society where goodness and virtue flourish, and where evil and corruption are prevented. This crucial principle is manifested in the concept of "Amr bil Ma'ruf wa Nahy anil Munkar" (enjoining good and forbidding evil), which is considered one of the distinguishing features of the Muslim Ummah and a fundamental duty of believers. Allah Almighty, in numerous verses of the Quran, calls upon believers to undertake this momentous responsibility and warns that neglecting it leads to grave consequences in this world and the hereafter. Enjoining good and forbidding evil is not merely a moral recommendation; it is a steadfast pillar for maintaining the health and dynamism of the Islamic community. This principle indicates that Muslims are not indifferent to one another; rather, they regard each other as allies and supporters, striving for each other's salvation. As stated in Surah Al-Imran, verse 104: "And let there be [arising] from you a nation inviting to [all that is] good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong, and those will be the successful." This verse clearly demonstrates that success and prosperity depend on fulfilling this vital role. Non-indifference is not just an individual duty but a social responsibility that rests upon every member of society, leading to the formation of a community where divine and human values are upheld. This duty stems from a deep love and compassion for fellow Muslim brothers and sisters, and indeed for all humanity. When an individual commits a sin, it does not merely harm themselves; its destructive effects can gradually spread throughout the entire society. Sin is like a contagious disease that, if left untreated, not only debilitates the infected individual but can also endanger collective health. Therefore, preventing the spread of sin and corruption is essential for preserving societal well-being and aiding in the guidance of those who have strayed. This is the approach beautifully depicted in Surah At-Tawbah, verse 71: "The believing men and believing women are allies of one another. They enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and establish prayer and give zakah and obey Allah and His Messenger. Those - Allah will have mercy upon them. Indeed, Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise." This verse places enjoining good and forbidding evil alongside prayer and zakat as primary characteristics of believers and a sign of their mutual guardianship and support for one another. An important point regarding enjoining good and forbidding evil is the manner in which it is carried out. The Holy Quran emphasizes that this must be done with wisdom (hikmah), good counsel (maw'idhat al-hasanah), and the best manner of argumentation (mujadalah billati hiya ahsan). While indifference is rejected, aggressive, humiliating, or judgmental intervention is also not endorsed. The goal is guidance and rectification, not blame or exposure. One should approach the sinner gently, kindly, and with compassion, speaking in a way that inclines their heart towards truth, rather than alienating them from faith and reality. Imam Ali (peace be upon him) said: "Enjoining good and forbidding evil is not merely a duty, but a reformative act." This means we should aim for reform, not destruction. For example, if we see someone backbiting, instead of silence or participation, we can gently and indirectly make them aware of the ugliness of their act or change the subject. These are small but significant examples of non-indifference. Neglecting this duty has severe consequences. The Quran narrates the story of the Children of Israel, who were cursed by Allah due to their abandonment of this obligation. In Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 78 and 79, Allah states: "Those among the Children of Israel who disbelieved were cursed by the tongue of David and of Jesus, the son of Mary. That was because they disobeyed and used to transgress. They used not to forbid one another from the Munkar (wrong, evil-doing, etc.) which they committed. Evil indeed was what they used to do!" These verses serve as a serious warning to the Muslim Ummah that if they shirk their responsibility towards one another and remain indifferent to the spread of wrongdoing, they may suffer a similar fate. Indifference gradually kills faith and religious zeal within society, normalizes corruption, and ultimately removes divine mercy and blessings from the community. In such a society, when sin becomes normal, even righteous individuals may be influenced and potentially fall into sin. Therefore, from the perspective of the Holy Quran, indifference towards the sins of others is not only incorrect but also an undesirable and dangerous act that can harm both the individual sinner and the entire community. The believer's responsibility is to stand against wrongdoings with wisdom and kindness, to the best of their ability and in a constructive manner, calling towards goodness and righteousness. This is not about prying or interfering in people's private affairs but rather out of compassion, religious brotherhood, and fulfilling a divine duty that leads to the well-being and prosperity of society. The ultimate goal is to help one another on the path of truth, building a society that reflects divine values and remains far from all forms of corruption and decay.