Question
Is shamatah (rejoicing at someone’s misfortune) allowed when it is toward non-Muslims?
Answer
Alhamdulillah, wassalatu wassalamu ala rasulillah, wa ala alihi wa sahbihi ajmain.
Islam teaches believers to maintain hearts of mercy and dignity, even in the face of differences. Shamatah, which means rejoicing at another person’s suffering, is discouraged in the Sunnah. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Do not show shamatah toward your brother, lest Allah have mercy on him and afflict you with a trial.” (Tirmidhi, 2506)
This hadith refers directly to Muslims, but the ethical spirit extends more broadly: a believer should not cultivate a heart that delights in human suffering.
At the same time, the Qur’an permits joy at the removal of oppression and injustice. For example, when the Romans defeated the Persians, Allah said:
“And on that day the believers will rejoice at the victory of Allah.” (al-Rum 30:4–5)
Here, the rejoicing was not about personal suffering, but about truth prevailing and oppression being lifted.
From this, scholars conclude:
- If the misfortune is personal (illness, accident, death of a family member), Muslims should not rejoice, but respond with compassion and prayer for guidance.
- If the misfortune is tied to injustice or aggression, such as an oppressor being stopped, then it is permissible to rejoice in Allah’s justice, while avoiding arrogance or gloating.
The usul principle applies:
الحكم يدور مع علته وجودا وعدما
The ruling revolves around its effective cause, existing when it exists and ceasing when it ceases.
So the ruling differs based on whether the suffering is personal or connected to oppression.
Final Ruling
It is not permissible in Islam to rejoice at the personal suffering of others, including non-Muslims, for Islam calls to mercy and noble character. However, when misfortune strikes oppressors in their aggression, and results in relief for the oppressed, then rejoicing in Allah’s justice is permissible. The believer should remain humble, grateful, and never cultivate arrogance or cruelty in the heart.
And Allah knows best.