Punishment for false accusation of Zina is mentioned in which Surah of the Holy Quran?

The punishment for making a false accusation of Zina, known in Islamic law as Qazf, is clearly mentioned in Surah An-Nur of the Holy Quran. This ruling appears in Surah An-Nur, verse 4, where Allah sets strict conditions and consequences for accusing chaste individuals of adultery without proper evidence. According to the Quran, anyone who accuses a respectable man or woman of Zina and fails to produce four reliable witnesses is liable to receive eighty lashes, and their testimony is rejected in the future unless they sincerely repent.

The wisdom behind this command is deeply rooted in the protection of human dignity and social harmony. Islam places immense value on personal honor, reputation, and moral integrity. False accusations can destroy families, ruin lives, and spread corruption within society. By prescribing a firm punishment, the Quran closes the door to rumors, slander, and character assassination. This law ensures that serious allegations such as Zina are treated with the utmost responsibility and not used as tools for personal revenge or social humiliation.

Surah An-Nur is often referred to as a chapter that focuses on moral conduct, modesty, family ethics, and social discipline. Along with the punishment for Qazf, it also discusses the importance of lowering the gaze, observing hijab, and maintaining purity in both private and public life. The inclusion of this ruling in Surah An-Nur highlights Islam’s balanced approach—protecting society from immorality while equally safeguarding innocent individuals from injustice.