Is it permissible to mention deceased individuals regarding the evil deeds they used to commit, such as riba (usury or interest) and others, and Allah’s retribution against them, given that Allah (Mighty and Majestic) delays punishment for the wrongdoer but does not neglect him, and to mention them as a lesson and to express dissatisfaction with them? Is there any backbiting or prohibition in mentioning them by name?

The questioner : Is it permissible to mention deceased individuals regarding the evil deeds they used to commit, such as riba (usury or interest) and others, and Allah’s retribution against them, given that Allah (Mighty and Majestic) delays punishment for the wrongdoer but does not neglect him, and to mention them as a lesson and to express dissatisfaction with them? Is there any backbiting or prohibition in mentioning them by name?

The Shaykh : Yes, the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited mentioning the dead regarding their evil deeds, saying: However, one should ask Allah for their pardon and forgiveness, for perhaps his supplication for them will be accepted, and Allah will forgive them and pardon them. As for mentioning their bad traits, this is done without specifying the individual. For example, when warning against riba (usury or interest), one might say: "Have you not seen a group who violated the prohibitions of Allah and engaged in riba (usury or interest), then they left this world, and none of their wealth was buried with them; rather, they left it for others. The wealth is for others, but the loss is upon them," and the like of this, which serves as a lesson for the living. As for mentioning a specific person by name, this is not permissible.

The questioner : May Allah reward you with good.