Does forbidden speech nullify ablution (Wudu)?
Chapter on What Nullifies Purification
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
Speech, other than apostasy (Riddah), such as lying, backbiting, obscene talk, and slander, does not invalidate ablution. This is the established position, affirmed by Ahmad. Scholars whose opinions are recorded from the major cities are in agreement that slander, false speech, lying, and backbiting do not necessitate purification (Wudu) nor do they invalidate existing ablution. The foundational evidence is the Prophet's statement: Whoever swears by Al-Lat and Al-'Uzza should say, 'There is no god but Allah,' without any command for ablution following this oath.
Supporting text
There are narrations from some early scholars (the predecessors) that they commanded ablution following malicious speech. However, this practice is considered recommended (Istihbab) for those who ordered it, and there is no known proof requiring ablution for any category of speech.