In Praise of Honest Criticism

The shaikh, Dr. Muḥammad ibn Ghālib Al-ʿUmarī, may Allāh protect him, said:

When criticism is honest, it’s more beloved to a person of intelligence and understanding than [having] good things said about him, since it’s through [honest criticism], that things that need straightening out get straightened out, matters of shortcomings and defects get redressed, and [incorrect] leanings and tendencies get set aright.

As for criticism for its own sake, it doesn’t bring about benefit; rather, it brings about harm, just as false praise [does].

It’s been said: Your friend is the one who’s frank with you, not the one who [always] approves of you.

Source: twitter.com/m_g_alomari. 28 Jun 22.