Question
I incited people to comment in self defense from being hurt by others, this may have led non-muslims to insult Muslims in self-defense, am I sinful for this?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate
You are not sinful for your comments. Technically what you wrote was correct, however, it may not have been ideal for the circumstance.
Responding With That Which is Better
Allah Most High advises the Prophet (may Allah bless him and give him peace) how to respond to the insults and criticisms of those against him. These advises serve as timeless guidelines by which we can frame our responses to criticisms, insults, etc… that we may encounter from others.
– Do Not Grieve
Allah Most High says, “Do not let their words grieve you ˹O Prophet˺. Surely all honor belongs to Allah. He is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” [Qur’an; 10:65]
– Respond in Kind (allowed, but not ideal)
Allah Most High says, “If you retaliate, then let it be equivalent to what you have suffered. But if you patiently endure, it is certainly best for those who are patient.” [Qur’an; 16:126]
– Be patient (ideal)
Allah Most High says, “Be patient ˹O Prophet˺, for your patience is only with Allah’s help. Do not grieve over those ˹who disbelieve˺, nor be distressed by their schemes.” [Qur’an; 16:127]
– Respond With That Which is Better
Allah Most High says, “Respond to evil with what is best. We know well what they claim.” [Qur’an; 23:96]
and, “Good and evil cannot be equal. Respond ˹to evil˺ with what is best, then the one you are in a feud with will be like a close friend.” [Qur’an; 41:34]
All For Allah’s Sake
When speaking and responding, as well as all other deeds we do, we must strive to act solely to please God. Matters of the tongue are dangerous because it is through the tongue that the ego gets a stage to perform.
We must, therefore, be very mindful that our speech is with purpose, seeking the good for all, and conducive of achieving that good. If we find our intentions veering off this trajectory or the content of our speech not conducive to bringing about good results, the basis is to err on the side of caution and remain silent.
The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Whoever holds themselves back from speaking (bad speech), is saved.” [Ahmad]
Hope this helps
Allah knows best
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani