Is the practice of masturbation considered a major sin?

The practice of masturbation is forbidden. There is no evidence to suggest whether it is a major or minor sin. However, persistence in a minor sin makes it a major sin, as Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, said: "No minor sin remains minor with persistence, and no major sin remains major with seeking forgiveness." Repeated sins stain the heart, as Allah Almighty said: (No, but what they used to earn has stained their hearts.)