If a brother sees wrongdoing in his sisters and remains silent due to fear, then informs his parents after some time, is he considered sinful?
Question
If a brother sees something wrong in his sisters, and he remains silent due to fear, and then tells his parents after a while, has he sinned? Will he be responsible for that?
Answer Summary
One who sees wrongdoing and can change it should do so, but if he fears greater harm, silence is acceptable. Failing to act may be sinful, especially if the lack of action leads to more significant harm. It is important to report to parents if necessary.
All praise is due to Allah. Whoever sees something wrong and is capable of confronting it with his hand or tongue should do so. If he fears greater corruption, he should remain silent. According to a Hadith from Muslim, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever sees a wrong should change it with his hand, and if he cannot, then with his tongue, and if he cannot, then with his heart, and that is the weakest of faith." Ibn al-Qayyim stated that denying wrong can occur in four degrees: 1) by opposing it, 2) by verbal disapproval, even if not fully removing it, 3) by opposing similar acts, 4) by opposing worse acts. The first two degrees are obligatory, the third is subject to ijtihad, and the fourth is prohibited. He should certainly disapprove of the wrongdoing towards his sisters, as they are under his protection. If he fears greater harm in disapproving, he should inform his parents. Not acting is a sin, especially if leaving it unmentioned leads to more significant potential harm. He is excused if he strives to prevent it. Allah knows best.