In Islam, the distinction between right and wrong is not just moral but deeply spiritual. Muslims are guided by the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in matters of worship, behavior, and ethics. While minor mistakes are part of human nature and can often be forgiven through daily prayers and seeking forgiveness, major sins known in Arabic as Al-Kabā’ir are serious offenses that threaten one’s faith and eternal success.
Major sins are not just personal failures; they are spiritual diseases that corrupt societies, damage relationships, and invite the wrath of Allah ﷻ. Understanding them is crucial for every Muslim who wishes to live a righteous life and attain salvation in the Hereafter.
What Are Major Sins (Al-Kabair)?
In Islamic terminology, major sins are actions that have been clearly forbidden by Allah ﷻ and His Messenger ﷺ and are accompanied by serious consequences in the Qur’an or Hadith. These are sins that may lead to punishment in this life or the next, including Hellfire, unless the person repents sincerely.
Signs That a Sin is Major:
- It is mentioned with a specific punishment in this world or the Hereafter.
- It has a prescribed legal punishment (Hudood) in Shari’ah.
- It is accompanied by a curse or the wrath of Allah ﷻ in the texts.
- It leads to destruction of one’s deeds or rejection of prayers.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
"Avoid the seven destructive sins." [Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim]
The Importance of Avoiding Major Sins
Avoiding major sins is critical to maintaining one's Imaan (faith) and relationship with Allah. The Qur’an says:
“If you avoid the major sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall lessen your (minor) sins, and admit you to a Noble Entrance (Paradise).”
[Surah An-Nisa 4:31]
This means that staying away from major sins is a pathway to forgiveness and divine mercy. However, committing them without repentance can lead to severe consequences both spiritually and socially.
List of Major Sins According to Imam Dhahabi
Imam Shamsu ed-Deen Dhahabi, a renowned scholar of the 13th century, compiled a famous book titled “Al-Kabair” (The Major Sins) where he listed over 70 major sins based on authentic sources.
Here are some of the most severe sins highlighted:
1. Shirk (Associating partners with Allah)
The gravest of all sins. Allah ﷻ does not forgive shirk unless the person repents before death. It nullifies all good deeds.
“Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills.”
[Surah An-Nisa 4:48]
2. Murder
Taking a human life unjustly is a crime against humanity and leads to severe punishment.
3. Sorcery and Black Magic
Practicing or believing in magic is a form of disbelief and a destructive act in Islam.
4. Neglecting Prayer (Salah)
Abandoning the five daily prayers is a major sin and may lead to disbelief.
5. Not Paying Zakat
Zakat is a pillar of Islam. Denying or withholding it intentionally is punishable.
6. Disrespecting Parents
Allah commands kindness to parents. Disrespecting or hurting them is considered a serious sin.
7. Adultery and Fornication
One of the most shameful acts in Islam. It destroys families and invites the wrath of Allah.
8. Homosexual Acts (Sodomy)
Considered a major deviation from natural and moral behavior in Islam.
9. Consuming Interest (Riba)
Allah has declared war on those who deal in riba. It exploits the weak and destroys economies.
10. Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is the “mother of all evils” as it leads to other sins and loss of self-control.
Other Noteworthy Sins Mentioned
- Gambling (Qimar)
- Bearing false witness
- Theft and highway robbery
- Lying about the Prophet ﷺ
- Suicide
- Bribery
- Disobeying leaders and causing division
- Cursing and backbiting
- Picture-making (Idolization risk)
- Men imitating women and vice versa
- Pride and arrogance
- Abusing neighbors
- Wearing silk or gold (for men)
Social and Spiritual Impact of Major Sins
Engaging in major sins not only distances a person from Allah but also creates corruption and injustice in society. When sins like bribery, false witness, and interest become common, justice collapses and the weak are exploited.
Spiritual effects include:
- Hardened heart
- Loss of blessings
- Anxiety and depression
- Rejection of good deeds
Can Major Sins Be Forgiven?
Yes — Allah's mercy is greater than all sins, but repentance must be sincere and immediate. The process of Tawbah (Repentance) includes:
- Stopping the sin immediately
- Feeling regret and shame
- Making a firm intention never to return
- If the sin involves others, returning their rights or seeking their forgiveness
Allah ﷻ promises:
“Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins.’”
[Surah Az-Zumar 39:53]
Prevention: How to Stay Away from Major Sins
- Strengthen Faith (Iman) through Qur’an, Hadith, and remembrance of Allah.
- Keep Good Company avoid people who promote sin or weaken your faith.
- Understand the Consequences study what Allah and His Messenger said about each sin.
- Make Dua Regularly ask Allah for protection against temptation.
- Avoid Environments of Sin like clubs, shady businesses, or bad media.
Final Thoughts
The book “Major Sins” by Imam Dhahabi is a powerful wake-up call for every Muslim. It reminds us of how fragile our path to Jannah can become if we knowingly disobey Allah. In a world full of distractions and trials, being aware of these sins and consciously avoiding them is not just recommended it's essential.
Our goal as believers is to attain Allah’s mercy, love, and Jannah. That journey begins by seeking knowledge, avoiding what is forbidden, and returning to Allah with a heart full of repentance.
“The successful one is he who avoids the major sins and repents sincerely for the minor ones.”
