The Major Sins in Islam
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) identified the most significant sins in Islam in a single narration. He stated: “Shall I inform you of the greatest of major sins?” When the companions replied affirmatively, he said: “Associating partners with Allah, disobedience to parents.” He then sat up to emphasize his next point: “And false speech, and bearing false witness.” Below, we will explore these three major sins in further detail.
Polytheism (Shirk) Against Allah
Polytheism is regarded as the gravest and most severe sin in the sight of Allah. It entails an individual elevating others as equals or partners to Allah in worship and reverence. Allah has warned that acts of righteousness, the intercession of prophets, or the pleas of close ones hold no merit for those who die as polytheists. Those who leave this life in a state of polytheism will face everlasting punishment in Hell. There are two types of polytheism: major polytheism, which removes an individual from the fold of Islam, and is characterized by directing worship or seeking assistance from anyone other than Allah; and minor polytheism, which, while considered a form of shirk, does not expel a person from the faith, such as showing off in deeds or swearing by anything other than Allah.
Disobedience to Parents (Dukh)
The term “Dukh” originates from the Arabic root meaning to sever, and it refers to a child’s failure to show kindness and respect to their parents. Disobedience to parents is deemed one of the gravest sins following polytheism in the eyes of Allah. To underscore the gravity of this sin and the dire consequences that accompany it, Allah has promised severe punishment and dire outcomes for those who commit it. A disobedient child is deprived of Paradise in the Hereafter, and Allah does not accept any obligatory or voluntary acts of worship from them. Furthermore, disobedience to parents can lead to worldly consequences, as it serves as a source of punishment for the sinner during their lifetime.
Bearing False Witness
Bearing false witness involves giving testimony or making statements that unjustly harm another’s life, honor, or property. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the severity of this wrongdoing and warned against it. He notably sat up while discussing it, signifying its importance, as many people trivialize the act in their daily lives.