🕊️ Conflict & resolution · #24
May I accuse my spouse of adultery if I only suspect it without proof?
No — accusing someone of adultery without lawful proof is a major sin (qazaf) and can be punished.
The Qur'an requires four witnesses for an accusation of zina (24:4), and commands avoiding suspicion and not spying (49:12). For a husband who is sure his wife has committed zina but has no witnesses, the Shariah provides the liʿan procedure before a judge (24:6) — it is a serious process with permanent effects and only through the court. If you suspect something, discuss your concern with your spouse honestly without accusing, and get help from a counsellor. Excessive, baseless jealousy can also destroy a marriage. See Talaq & divorce.
The Qur'an requires four witnesses for an accusation of zina (24:4), and commands avoiding suspicion and not spying (49:12). For a husband who is sure his wife has committed zina but has no witnesses, the Shariah provides the liʿan procedure before a judge (24:6) — it is a serious process with permanent effects and only through the court. If you suspect something, discuss your concern with your spouse honestly without accusing, and get help from a counsellor. Excessive, baseless jealousy can also destroy a marriage. See Talaq & divorce.
Sources
Surah an-Nur 24:4Surah an-Nur 24:6Surah al-Hujurat 49:12