One time, Imam called his family and said: “I had the intention to tell you something at a time when you are altogether.” Then he said: “Do you know how much sin backbiting has?” We said: “Yes.” Then he said: “Do you know how much sin killing a person has?” We said: “Yes.” He said: “Backbiting has more (sin)!” He then said: “Do you know how much sin unlawful acts and acting against chastity (i.e. adultery) is?” We said: “Yes.” He said: “Backbiting has more (sin).”
* Notes: Ruznameye Ithila’at, 17/3/1367