Meaning of "Soo' Al-Dhan" (Bad Assumption) in Language and Terminology

1. Meaning of "Soo'" (Badness) in Language:

According to Ibn Manzur:

• "Soo' (سوء)" means causing harm or displeasure, the opposite of happiness or contentment. It refers to something that brings dislike or discomfort.
• "Soo'" is a noun, pronounced with a "dhamma" (ضمة) on the letter "س" (Seen).
• Example:
  • "I caused harm to the person" is expressed as "سؤتُ الرجل" or "سأيتُه."
  • "He disliked what he saw from me" can be expressed as "سأيتُه بما رأيته مني."

Source: "Lisan al-Arab" (Ibn Manzur)

2. Meaning of "Dhan" (Assumption) in Language:

According to Ibn Manzur:

• "Dhan" (ظن) refers to having a belief or assumption, often based on suspicion.
• "Dhan" can also imply suspicion or an accusation.
• Example:
  • "I assumed that..." is expressed as "ظننتُ ذلك..."
  • "I accused him" or "I suspected him" is expressed as "ظننته" or "أظننته."

The term "ظنين" refers to a person who is suspected or accused of something, indicating a level of distrust.

Source: "Lisan al-Arab" (Ibn Manzur)

3. Terminology of "Soo' Al-Dhan" (Bad Assumption) in Islamic Context:

What is "Soo' Al-Dhan"?

1. Al-Mawardi's Definition:
   • Soo' Al-Dhan: The failure to trust someone who deserves trust.
2. Ibn al-Qayyim's Definition:
   • Soo' Al-Dhan: The state in which the heart is filled with negative assumptions about others, eventually causing the tongue and actions to reflect these doubts.
3. Ibn Kathir's Definition:
   • Soo' Al-Dhan: The act of making accusations or doubting people, especially family and close ones, without valid reason.