Answer
Salam Dear Sister,
Thank you so much for this very important question and topic.
First of all, let us think, how can the religion that asks its members to greet one another with peace, mercy and blessings, allow the same members to curse one another even jokingly?
Of course my sister this is not allowed at all in Islam.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings upon him) said:
“The true believer is not a slanderer, nor does he curse others, and nor is he immoral or shameless.” [Related by At-Tirmidhi]
Allah Almighty says in the Quran:
“And speak to people good [words]” (Quran 2:83)
The heart that knows and remembers Allah-The Source of Peace, Source of Purity- accordingly emanates beauty and goodness because Allah is the Source of all Beauty and Goodness. A beautiful tongue is a reflection of a beautiful heart. One must have a beautiful tongue and say only good, beautiful things to people. It is a great sign of true belief.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings upon him) said:
He who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him speak good or remain silent”. [Al- Bukhari and Muslim].
Saying hurtful things to people deeply affects their hearts and could ruin their mood and their day. We’re not allowed to interrupt the peace of other people’s heart and day by words that aren’t good.
Allah taught us:
“And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.” (Quran 17: 53)
Throwing bad and hurtful words at one another will only result in further ugly words and further disagreement, lack of peace and stability of heart and mind. This is the environment that Satan wants for us; disagreement, distraction and dispute. But Allah wants our peace and unity, and so words are matters of great value, weight and consequences.
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said,
“A man utters a word pleasing to Allah without considering it of any significance for which Allah exalts his ranks (in Jannah); another one speaks a word displeasing to Allah without considering it of any importance, and for this reason he will sink down into Hell.” [Al-Bukhari].
This is why Allah Almighty says:
“O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one’s] faith. And whoever does not repent – then it is those who are the wrongdoers.” (Quran 49:11)
So, sister, this is not a light matter. We should guard our tongues and watch our words. Jokes could be accomplished perfectly without resorting to insults, mockery or immorality in any way, shape or form.
Tip: Say something good and beautiful to each person you meet today. Tell your mother how beautiful her cooking is. Tell your brother/sister that you look up to them. Tell your friend how you appreciate their hard work and dedication.
Be thoughtful, and truthful. Speak words of kindness and goodness to people, and observe the happiness this will bring into your heart and theirs.
I hope this helps.
Salam and please keep in touch.