Repentance
Repentance refers to the act of turning back from sin and abandoning it. For repentance to be sincere and genuine, a servant of God must fulfill certain conditions and requirements. These include: intending to seek the pleasure of God, feeling remorse for past transgressions, and ceasing the sinful behavior. Additionally, if the sin involves the rights of others, it is necessary to rectify the wrongs by returning their rights. Furthermore, the individual must pledge to God not to return to that sin, replacing it with righteous actions to draw closer to God and attain His pleasure, ultimately to secure a place in Paradise. This article will explore the consequences of sins and transgressions.
Consequences of Sins and Transgressions
Deprivation of Religious Knowledge
Acquiring religious knowledge is a form of worship that facilitates the servant’s path to Paradise. God illuminates the hearts of knowledge seekers with this enlightenment, and nothing extinguishes this light except sin. This is exemplified by Imam Al-Shafi’i’s counsel to Imam Malik, whom he recognized for his intelligence and understanding, advising him: “I see that God has placed a light in your heart; do not extinguish it with the darkness of sin.”
Loss of Sustenance
God has made piety, goodness, and avoidance of sins a means to bring about sustenance and blessings, whether in wealth or offspring. Here, sustenance refers to what is sufficient and fulfilling, rather than merely abundant yet burdensome. Many devout individuals possess considerable wealth without finding happiness or satisfaction in it. Conversely, numerous others lead simple lives filled with contentment, fearing only God Almighty. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “A person may be deprived of sustenance due to the sin he commits” [Sahih Ibn Hibban].
Difficulties in Life and Needs
God eases the path for His righteous servants who fear Him, obey His commands, and avoid His prohibitions. As stated in the Holy Quran: “And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out” [At-Talaq: 4]. In contrast, those who disobey Him find their affairs complicated, experiencing the burdens of their sins in even the simplest aspects of life. This leads to a life filled with distress and anxiety, depriving them of divine guidance and approval.
Sins Beget Further Sins
Sins tend to multiply, with one leading to another, creating a cycle that becomes increasingly difficult for the sinner to break free from. Even when an individual attempts to cease their sinful habits, they may initially feel a sense of constriction in their heart. However, a sincere and genuine repentance can cleanse their heart, allowing them to promise God not to return to wrongdoing.
Sins Lead to Humiliation
God renders the sinner humility and disgrace, diminishing their status among people. In contrast, the pious servant is granted a high standing in the eyes of others, receiving their affection and respect. As stated in the Quran: “Whoever desires honor – for Allah belongs all honor” [Fatir: 10].
Deprivation of the Prophet’s Prayer and Angels’ Supplications
God has commanded His Messenger, peace be upon him, to seek forgiveness for both believing men and women in numerous verses of the Quran. He said: “So know that there is no deity except Allah and seek forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women; and Allah knows of your movement and your resting place” [Muhammad: 19]. Those who refrain from sin may benefit from this forgiveness, but persisting in wrongdoing deprives them of the Prophet’s intercession and the prayers of angels.
Fear and Anxiety
The sinner remains in a constant state of fear and anxiety, worrying about being exposed to others. For instance, a thief or an adulterer lives in deep apprehension, whereas pious individuals enjoy stability and peace.