If a person sees a defect from his brother (i.e. a sin), he should not expose him and spread news of it amongst the people.

Rather, he should conceal [his brother’s sins]; advise him; direct him towards good; call him to repent to Allāh, the Most High; and not expose him to the people. The one who conceals [the sins of] his brother, Allāh will conceal him [i.e. his sins] both in the worldly life and in the Hereafter. This is because the recompense of one is in accordance to that which he has done.

As for those who have no shame and make their sins apparent to the people, they have exposed themselves; therefore, they are not given concealment [with regards to their sins]. They are like the one who drinks alcohol amongst the people in the marketplaces and gatherings, such a person has exposed himself. We ask Allāh for good health.¹

Endnotes:

[1] Fatāwá Nūr ʿalá al-Darb #11401.
Translated by: Munīb al-Ṣumālī