How To Repent From Gossiping?

Answered by Ustadh Tabraze Azam
Question: Assalam’aleykum
I have gossiped a lot when I was in highschool. I once heard that two of my classmates were in a relationship and I told my other friends what I heard. I think the girl and boy found out. Did I do a major sin? How do I repent? Do I have to contact them?
Answer: Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,
I pray that you are in the best of health and faith, insha’Allah.
Repent for your shortcoming, but you don’t have to contact the person.
In general, slander is unlawful and sinful. [see: Backbiting (ghiba) and Seeking Counsel]
Make a sincere general repentance for all of the occasions in which you slipped up, knowingly or unknowingly, and then resolve never to return back to your old ways. Allah is Merciful, and He relents unto those who sincerely seek repentance.
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The one who repents from sin is like one who never sinned.” [Ibn Majah] Rejoice in the mercy, and show gratitude for the opportunity of another chance.
See also: A Reader on Tawba (Repentance)
And Allah alone gives success.
Tabraze Azam
Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani.