What Are the Major Sins in Islam?

In Islam, we have two kinds of sin. Major and minor. As obvious from the words, Major sins are a big deal. When we talk about major sins they are also mentioned in the holy book, the Quran and found in Hadiths, It has been emphasized repeatedly that they have serious consequences not only in this world but here after as well. 

Understanding these sins is very important for every Muslim man and woman because avoiding them is a pathway to achieving Allah’s pleasure and eternal success. Major sins involve actions that hurt the individual performing them and society at large.

This blog explores the 15 major sins in Islam, Unveiling the profound meanings behind each concept and drawing on the wisdom of the Hadith, with examples that show their significance.

List of the 15 Major Sins in Islam:

1. Associating Anything with Allah (Shirk)
2. Murder (Unjust Taking of Life)
3. Fleeing Away from the Battlefield
4. Adultery (Zina)
5. Calumniating Chaste, Innocent Believing Women
6. Consuming the Wealth of an Orphan
7. Riba (Usury/Interest)
8. Disrespecting Parents
9. Witchcraft
10. Bearing False Witness
11. Failing to pay Zakat
12. Lying About the Prophet
13. Drinking Alcohol
14. Pride and Arrogance
15. Gambling

1. Associating Anything with Allah (Shirk)

Shirk is the gravest sin in Islam. It opposes the foundation of Tawheed, which explains that Allah is the only one who created and sustains the world and whom people should worship. Shirk can take different forms, including idol worship, attributing divine attributes to other beings, and invoking others besides Allah for help. This sin not only distorts the idea of faith but also breaks the main principle of Islam, which is the oneness of Allah. 

It has been addressed in the Holy Quran several times that shirk is a grave sin. If a person dies without asking for the forgiveness of Allah Almighty, there will be major consequences on the day of judgment. This shows that Muslim Umma needs to worship who he is one and almighty. 

Reference

• Quran: “Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:48)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The greatest sin is to associate partners with Allah while He has created you.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 4207)

Consequences

• Eternal Punishment: Those who commit shirk and do not repent will be given eternal punishment in Hell. (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:72)
• Loss of good deeds: All the good deeds done by an individual while committing shirk will be nullified. (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:65)
• Separation from Allah‘s Mercy: Shirk sets a wall between the sinner and the boundless mercy of Allah.

Example

Consider a person who prays at a saint’s shrine, believing that the saint has the authority to fulfill all one’s wishes. This action goes against Tawheed since it means that the saint has a share of Allah‘s powers. Even if it is done out of ignorance, it is still a shirk and something that must be repented from.

2. Murder

Killing or taking somebody’s life without lawful reason is a grave sin in Islam. Life is sacred and Allah has told us that slaying one soul unjustly would be tantamount to slaying all of humankind. The sin disturbs the social equilibrium and denies God’s gift given to each person to live on earth. The religion prohibits the act of murder except for retaliatory killing according to Shariah law or on justifiable grounds. This has been shown throughout the Quran; therefore, killing is a grave sin any individual can make.

Reference

• Quran: “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:32)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The first cases to be adjudicated among the people on the Day of Judgment will be those of bloodshed.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6864)

Consequences

• Severe Punishment in the Hereafter: A person who murders without justification faces the wrath of Allah and the eternal punishment of Hellfire. (Surah An-Nisa, 4:93)
• Retribution (Qisas): “The family of the victim has a choice either to demand execution of the murderer or to forgive and accept blood money as provided for in the laws of Allah.“
• Loss of Allah‘s Mercy: “If a murderer does not change his ways, he will lose the hope of mercy from Allah.”

Example

A murderer of another man from cruel hatred or rivalry over something or hatred is a sin that is not forgiven unless he repents sincerely. In this manner, one who kills over jealousy or revenge is directly offending God’s creation itself.

3. Desertion from the Battlefield

Running away from the enemy during the war for saving Islam is an extremely grave offense. Waging jihad in Allah‘s cause is a sacrifice compared to which many others are far lesser. Once the soldier ran away from the battle, the only thing that happened to him was losing trust in Allah; however, his running back did not bring confidence to his comrades, resulting in the defeating them. This is compared to betraying Allah, the Prophet ﷺ, and the Muslim nation. Islam promotes boldness and perseverance, more so when one is defending their religion, the downtrodden, and their homeland.

Reference

• Quran: “O you who have believed, when you meet those who disbelieve advancing [for battle], do not turn your backs to them [in flight]. And whoever turns his back to them on such a day. has certainly returned with anger [upon him] from Allah, and his refuge is Hell.” (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:15-16)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Avoid the seven destructive sins,” and among them, he mentioned, “fleeing on the day of the march (to battle).” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 2766)

Consequences

• Hell Fire: People who flee without valid cause are destined for Hell Fire.
• Shame in Society: Such an act will bring shame and humiliation in front of the Muslim society.
• Divine Displeasure: Running away in the middle of a fight, therefore, has demonstrated a lack of faith in God’s aid and direction and results in provoking His wrath.

Example:

When a Muslim soldier runs off on the battlefield due to cowardice during a raid, it leaves other companions exposed. Fleeing results in a treasonable act which, in turn, might bring destruction to all the troops

4. Adultery (Zina)

Adultery or sexual relations outside the sanctity of marriage is a major sin in Islam. This act demoralizes the family system, corrupts societies, and results in moral decay. Islam safeguards personal honor, family values, and chastity, strictly prohibiting adultery and fornication. Muslims are advised to avoid anything that leads to Zina, such as inappropriate interactions or exposing oneself to temptation. Allah has ordained such severe retribution for the one proved guilty of the sin of Zina that makes being chaste and lawful to others very important.

References

• Quran: “And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:32)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “When a man commits adultery, faith leaves him and hovers over his head like a cloud, and when he stops, faith returns to him again.” (Sunan Abi Dawood, Hadith 4690)

Consequences

• Hudood Punishment: If proven with valid evidence, the punishment for adultery is flogging or stoning, depending on marital status. (Surah An-Nur, 24:2)
• Spiritual Degradation: Adultery leads to the removal of Allah’s blessings and mercy.
• Loss of Trust: A person who engages in Zina destroys trust within families and communities.

Example

A married individual who betrays their spouse by engaging in an extramarital affair commits zina, violating the trust of their partner and disregarding Allah’s commands.

5. Slandering Chaste, Innocent Believing Women

Slander against chaste women means making false accusations about a woman concerning her chastity, which destroys the honor of innocent women by promulgating falsehood, causing irreparable harm to families and communities. In Islam, great importance is assigned to the dignity and reputation of believers who must face stern penalties for those accusing others of immorality without having proof for such a thing. So the gravity of this sin reflects the seriousness of the commitment to justice and protecting people from harm.

References

• Quran: “And those who launch a charge against chaste women, and produce not four witnesses (to support their allegation), flog them with eighty stripes; and reject their evidence ever after.” (Surah An-Nur, 24:4)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Avoid the seven destructive sins,” and among them, he mentioned slandering chaste, innocent, believing women. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 2766)

Consequences

• Hudood Punishment: In case adultery is proven with authentic evidence, then the punishment would be flogging or stoning according to marital status. (Surah An-Nur, 24:2)
• Spiritual Degradation: The blessings and mercy of Allah are removed by committing adultery.
• Societal Harm: False accusations lead to distrust and moral corruption within communities.

Example

Accusing a woman without any evident witness or proof is considered a grave sin in Islam. There needs to be at least four witnesses who saw a sin being committed. If any false accusations and witnesses are presented, there will be ugly consequences in your life and afterlife.

6. Overindulgence in the Wealth of an Orphan

Islam advises Muslims to take care of orphans and protect their riches. Overindulgence in an orphan‘s vulnerability by overindulging in his wealth through unjust ways is one of the major sins. An orphan is a trust between Allah and man, and his rights are to be respected until he attains maturity. Misappropriation of his inheritance, exploitation of his status, or simply stealing from him invites the wrath of Allah. This sin shows greed, selfishness, and a lack of compassion and is condemned in Islam.

References

• Quran: “Indeed, those who devour the property of orphans unjustly are only consuming into their bellies fire. And they will be burned in a Blaze.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:10)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The best house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are treated well.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3679)

Consequences

• Hellfire: Allah says that consuming an orphan‘s wealth is subject to punishment in Hell.
• Blessings removed: The result of misusing an orphan‘s property is that Allah removes the blessings from his wealth.
• The Day of Accountability: Those wronged orphans would be accountable to Allah.

Example

Any guardian who uses the saved inheritance of a child to his advantage is admitted to sin. If we take a real-life example, any uncle or aunt managing his nephew’s inherited money who now is an orphan has to hand it over once they become adults.

7. Riba (Usury)

Riba is the act of taking excessive interest on loans. This is a serious sin that is directly forbidden in Islam. Riba takes advantage of the financial weakness of people and causes economic imbalance. Islam promotes trade and equitable business but completely prohibits riba, as it brings harm to people and communities at large. Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) have declared war against those who engage in riba, and this is an important point in its seriousness. Muslim ethics encourage proper money transactions with morals.

Reference

• Quran: “Those who take interest cannot stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except as one stand who is being beaten by Satan into insanity. That is because they say, ‘Trade is [just] like interest.’ But Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden interest.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:275)
• Hadith: It is narrated that the Messenger of Allah Muhammad (ﷺ) stated, “Allah has put a curse upon the one who consumes riba, the one who gives it, the one who writes it down, and the two who witness it.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1598)

Consequences

• Struggle Spiritual Allah declares war on those who carry out riba. (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:279)
• Unstable Economy Due to riba, there is financial corruption along with disparity within society.
• Eternal Punishment: Persons engaged in riba are tortured in the Afterlife.

Example

Charging a very high interest on loans to people suffering financial hardship by a bank is an example of riba. Similarly, a borrower who accepts the same terms is also committing the same sin.

8. Disrespecting Parents

Respecting parents is a very very basic duty under Islam, preceded only by that of worshipping Allah. Respecting one’s parents through both words and acts or by completely neglecting the same is strictly forbidden and the act brings along Allah’s fury. Parents grapple and sweat to bring children up. A child in Islam is ordered by Allah to pay respect, and obeisance to them, besides taking care of their old age. Being rude, dismissive, or negligent to parents is considered a violation of their rights.

References

• Quran: “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.” (Surah Luqman, 31:14)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The pleasure of Allah lies in the pleasure of the parent, and the anger of Allah lies in the anger of the parent.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1899)

Punishment

• Loss of Allah’s Grace: Irresponsibility towards the parents makes God’s favors and grace take off from him
• Torment here and hereafter: The disobeying experience trouble in the world and grave chastisement hereafter.
• Social Alienation: Irrespective of the action, disrespecting parents usually creates tension and estrangement.

Example

A child who screams at or refuses to talk to his elderly parents, not making any effort to provide for their care and welfare, sins disrespecting his parents.

9. Witchcraft (Sihr)

Witchcraft, or sihr, involves invoking supernatural forces through unlawful means. It is a severe form of shirk (associating partners with Allah) and often involves reliance on jinn, spells, or rituals forbidden in Islam. It is evil because it tends to influence, harm people, and go against Allah‘s wish. Islam abhors every aspect of sorcery and magic as it cautions against such perpetrators.

References

• Quran: “And they followed [instead] what the devils had recited during the reign of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:102)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Avoid the seven destructive sins.” The companions asked, “What are they?” He replied, “Associating others with Allah, witchcraft.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 2766)

Results

• Severe Punishment in the Hereafter: Those who practice witchcraft will face Allah’s wrath and Hellfire.
• Harm to Others: Witchcraft causes physical, emotional, and spiritual harm to individuals.
• Loss of Iman (Faith): Performing sihr is as if a person has renounced Islam.

Example

Whoever goes to a magician to have a spell cast upon somebody by him, for envy or to revenge himself sins witchcraft.

10. Bearing False Witness

False witness, or lying under oath, is one of those grave sins that destroy justice and truth. It usually leads to unjust outcomes against an individual or a community. Islam underscores honesty and fairness, and false witness has naturally earned the reputation of being one of the most severe sins for sullying its basic premise-the provision of justice

References

• Quran: “And do not conceal testimony, for whoever conceals it – his heart is indeed sinful. And Allah is Knowing of what you do.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:283)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Shall I not tell you of the greatest of major sins?” The companions said, “Yes, O Messenger of Allah.””Yes, O Messenger of Allah.” He said, “Associating others with Allah and disobedience to parents.” The Prophet then sat up and said, “And false witness.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 2654)

Results

• Injustice: False testimony leads to wrongful convictions or losses.
• Eternal Punishment: Those who bear false witness are subject to Allah’s anger and torment in Hell.
• Social Breakdown: False witnesses destroy trust within communities.

Example

An individual who lies in court to favor a friend or relative, causing harm to the opposing party, is guilty of bearing false witness.

11. Not Paying Zakat

Zakat, a Fifth Pillar of Islam, is obligatory charity, purifying wealth, and supporting the needy. Nonpayment of zakat is considered a serious sin because it denies the rights of the poor and violates Allah’s command. Zakat is not charity but rather a duty aimed at the equal distribution of wealth and equality. The Quran and Hadith clearly state that the importance of zakat is essential, and one who neglects it faces very severe consequences both in this world and the Hereafter.

References

• Quran: “And those who hoard gold and silver and spend neither in the cause of Allah their requital is near; and on the Day of Resurrection, unto Us are their returning.” (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:34)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The wealth of a man who doesn’t pay alms then will appear to him on the Day of Resurrection as a venomous bald snake which encircles his neck and bites his cheeks and says to him: I am your riches, I am your treasure.” Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1403

Effects

Dhulm Allah: Dire torment in the Hereafter against those who will not give out zakat.

12. Lying About the Prophet (ﷺ)

Spreading false information or attributing lies to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is a grave sin in Islam. The teachings and sayings of the Prophet (ﷺ) serve as a guiding light for Muslims, and tampering with them distorts the religion, misleads believers, and compromises the authenticity of Islam. Islam strongly warns against fabricating hadiths or misrepresenting the Prophet’s words for personal gain, social approval, or any other purpose.

References

• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Whoever tells a lie against me intentionally, then (surely) let him occupy his seat in Hellfire.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1291)
• Quran: While the Quran does not specifically address lying about the Prophet, it broadly condemns lying, stating, “So avoid defilement of idols and avoid false statement.” (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:30)

Consequences

• Eternal Punishment: The person who lies about the Prophet (ﷺ) is threatened with Hellfire.
• Corruption of Faith: Misrepresenting the teachings of the Prophet leads to widespread misinformation and damages the faith of others.
• Accountability for Misguidance: The liar will bear the burden of the sins of those who are misled due to their false statements.

Example

Someone falsely claims that a particular cultural practice is a Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ), leading others to adopt it without proper verification, thus perpetuating a cycle of misinformation.

13. Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is strictly forbidden in Islam as it is considered an intoxicant that clouds judgment, promotes sinful behavior, and harms the individual and society. Islam emphasizes purity of mind and body, and alcohol stands in direct opposition to these principles. Consuming intoxicants weakens self-control, leads to moral degradation, and opens the door to many other sins.

References

• Quran: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:90)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Whatever intoxicates in large quantities, a small amount of it is also prohibited.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3392)

Consequences

• Spiritual Deviation: The acceptance of intoxicants distances a person from Allah and weakens faith.
• Health and Social Damage: Alcohol causes numerous physical and mental health issues and leads to societal problems such as domestic violence and accidents.
• Divine Punishment: The person who drinks alcohol and does not repent risks severe consequences in the Hereafter.

Example

A Muslim who casually drinks alcohol at social gatherings, disregarding Islamic prohibitions, not only harms themselves but also sets a negative example for others.

14. Pride and Arrogance

Pride and arrogance are major sins in Islam because they lead to self-glorification, disregard for others, and defiance of Allah’s commands. These traits were the cause of Iblis’s downfall when he refused to bow to Adam out of arrogance. A person filled with pride often denies the truth, belittles others, and forgets their dependence on Allah. Humility is a core value in Islam, and the rejection of pride is essential for spiritual growth.

References

• Quran: “Indeed, Allah does not like the arrogant and boastful.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:36)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “No one who has an atom’s weight of arrogance in his heart will enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 91)

Consequences

• Loss of Paradise: Arrogance prevents entry into Paradise and earns Allah’s wrath.
• Social Isolation: Arrogant individuals often alienate themselves from others due to their behavior.
• Spiritual Decay: Pride blinds a person from self-accountability and repentance.

Example

A wealthy individual who looks down on others because of their financial status, believing their wealth makes them superior, is guilty of this sin.

15. Gambling

Gambling is forbidden in Islam because it promotes greed, exploits others, and often leads to financial and social ruin. It creates false hopes of quick wealth while fostering addictive behaviors and moral corruption. Islam discourages any form of activity that involves chance or speculation, emphasizing instead lawful earning and the pursuit of honest livelihoods.

References

• Quran: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:90)
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “He who says to his companion, ‘Come, let us gamble,’ must give charity as expiation.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 4579)

Consequences

• Financial Ruin: Gambling often results in debt and poverty for the individual and their family.
• Social Harm: It fosters distrust and exploitation, leading to strained relationships and conflicts.
• Spiritual Loss: Gambling distracts from worship, weakens faith, and invites Allah’s anger.

Example

A person who frequently visits casinos or bets online, hoping to gain wealth through chance, becomes addicted and loses their savings, causing immense harm to themselves and their loved ones.

Conclusion

Major sins in Islam are clearly defined as acts that directly disobey Allah’s commands and harm individuals and society. These sins, such as associating partners with Allah (Shirk), murder, consuming riba (usury), and gambling, not only result in severe consequences in the Hereafter but also disrupt the moral, spiritual, and social fabric of life. By understanding the gravity of these sins and their consequences, Muslims are reminding to strive for obedience, seek Allah’s forgiveness, and follow the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.

Islam encourages its followers to reflect on their actions, repent for their mistakes, and seek mercy from Allah, whose forgiveness encompasses all sins for those who are sincere. Avoiding these sins and adopting a lifestyle rooted in faith, humility, and righteousness is the key to success in this world and the Hereafter.

FAQs About Major Sins in Islam

1. What are the major sins in Islam?

Major sins in Islam are severe offenses that Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) have strongly prohibited, such as Shirk, murder, adultery, riba (usury), and gambling. They often come with explicit warnings of punishment in both this life and the Hereafter.

2. What is the biggest sin in Islam?

The biggest sin in Islam is associating partners with Allah (Shirk). It is considered an unforgivable sin if one dies without repenting for it. (Quran 4:48)

3. Are major sins unforgivable in Islam?

Major sins can be forgiven if one sincerely repents, turns to Allah, and resolves not to commit the sin again. However, Shirk is an exception unless repented for before death. (Quran 4:48)

4. How can one seek forgiveness for major sins in Islam?

Repentance (Tawbah) involves:

1. Acknowledging the sin.
2. Feeling remorse for committing it.
3. Ceasing the sinful act immediately.
4. Resolving never to return to the sin.
5. Seeking Allah’s forgiveness through Dua and good deeds.

5. How are major sins different from minor sins?

• Major Sins: Explicitly mentioned in the Quran or Hadith with severe consequences (e.g., Hellfire).

• Minor sins: are lesser wrongdoings that good deeds, prayer, or acts of charity can expiate.

6. Is gambling a major sin in Islam?

8. What are the consequences of not paying Zakat?

Failing to pay Zakat is considering a major sin, leading to severe consequences, including punishment in the Hereafter, as mentioned in several Hadiths.

9. Can a Muslim repent for committing Shirk?

Yes, Muslim can repent for Shirk if they turn back to Allah, declare His oneness (Tawheed), and sincerely ask for forgiveness during their lifetime.

10. What should one do if they have committed a major sin?

A person who has committed a major sin should:

1. Repent sincerely to Allah.
2. Perform good deeds to atone for the sin.
3. Seek forgiveness from those harmed (if applicable).
4. Strengthen their connection with Allah through worship and seeking knowledge.