What are the things to keep private according to Islam?

In Islam, privacy is highly valued, and there are several aspects of personal life that are encouraged to be kept private in order to maintain dignity, respect, and a sense of modesty. Here are some key things that should be kept private according to Islamic teachings:

1. Personal Matters (Private Affairs)

• Family matters: Issues related to your family, such as marital problems or private disputes, should not be shared publicly. Islam encourages resolving personal matters within the family or with trusted individuals.
• Intimate relationships: Details of one's intimate relationships or sexual matters should be kept private. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that privacy in marital matters is essential, and such affairs should remain between the spouses and not be exposed to others.

2. Sin and Mistakes

• Repenting sins: If someone commits a sin and repents sincerely, it is encouraged to keep it private. Islam discourages exposing one’s sins, and instead encourages seeking forgiveness from Allah and improving oneself.
• Avoid gossip: Speaking about others' sins, mistakes, or faults is discouraged, as this can lead to gossip, backbiting (ghibah), and slander (namimah), which are prohibited in Islam. It is better to cover others’ faults and help them in private.

3. Financial Affairs

• Wealth and income: It is not advisable to boast about wealth, income, or material possessions, as this may lead to pride (kibr) or envy (hasad). Islam teaches modesty and encourages giving charity without showing off.
• Debts and financial struggles: While one may need to seek help, it is recommended to handle financial difficulties privately and not expose them to the public unnecessarily. Islam encourages patience and trust in Allah during times of financial hardship.

4. Personal Struggles and Illness

• Health issues: While one may need medical assistance or help from family and close friends, it is encouraged to keep one's health conditions private, especially if they involve matters that may cause shame or embarrassment. The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized maintaining one's dignity and modesty, even in times of illness.
• Mental health: Similarly, struggles related to mental health or emotional difficulties should be approached with sensitivity. It is important to seek support, but individuals are encouraged not to overshare personal vulnerabilities with the broader public.

5. Religious Acts of Worship

• Private acts of worship: Acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and charity, should generally be performed with sincerity and not for show. Islam teaches that one should not boast about their religious deeds or publicize them to gain admiration. The Prophet (PBUH) warned against performing acts of worship to be seen by others (riya), as these should be for Allah alone.
• Private supplications (du'a): Personal supplications, especially when asking Allah for help or guidance, should be made with humility and kept private. This prevents showing off and ensures the sincerity of the prayer.

6. Private Thoughts and Intentions

• Avoiding arrogance: Islam encourages introspection but discourages publicizing one’s thoughts, especially if they involve pride or arrogance. One’s intentions should be directed towards pleasing Allah and should not be made for public approval.
• Judging others: It is encouraged to avoid publicly judging others, especially without full knowledge of their circumstances. Islam stresses the importance of empathy, kindness, and avoiding harsh judgment.

7. Personal Conversations

• Confidentiality: Conversations between individuals, especially intimate ones, should be respected and kept confidential. The trust between a person and their confidant is sacred. The Prophet (PBUH) said that a believer should not share secrets or private conversations without consent.
• Respecting others' privacy: Asking overly personal questions about others' private lives or situations is discouraged unless it is necessary or requested.

8. Dress and Appearance

• Modesty in dress: Both men and women are encouraged to maintain modesty in their dress and not expose themselves unnecessarily. Islam encourages dressing in a way that reflects dignity and avoids drawing undue attention.
• Private appearance: A person’s appearance, especially in private spaces, should be considered a matter of personal dignity and modesty, and revealing it unnecessarily is discouraged.

Conclusion:

Islam places great emphasis on maintaining privacy, dignity, and modesty. By keeping certain aspects of life private—whether personal struggles, sins, financial matters, or intimate relationships—Muslims are able to foster a community of trust, compassion, and respect. Privacy also helps maintain the integrity of one's faith, preventing arrogance and protecting the reputation of others. The teachings of Islam aim to protect both the individual and the collective dignity of society.