What is the legal consequence for a poet who engages in slander or false testimony?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Testimonies
Primary text
If a poet habitually slanders Muslims, praises disbelievers with falsehoods, or accuses a Muslim man or woman of fornication (Qadhf), his testimony shall be rejected. This applies whether the accusation is made by the poet directly or through his poetry. It is stated that the person bearing the greatest sin is one who engages in public poetic rivalry (Muhajatan) against another man, thereby slandering his entire tribe.
Supporting text
It is related that when Abu Dalaamah's testimony was presented before a judge who was hesitant to accept it due to his poetry, Abu Dalaamah recited verses implying that if his character were questioned, the questioners also had flaws. The judge chose not to overtly reject the testimony but rather compensated the dues from his own funds.