Is it possible for you to show me the difference between major and minor sins?
Sins are divided into minor and major sins. Scholars have differed on the definition of major sins, while agreeing that they are not limited to a specific number. Among the best definitions is that any sin described as major or great in a text from the Qur'an, , or by consensus, or for which severe punishment is mentioned, or upon which a legal حد (prescribed punishment) is set, or for which strong condemnation is expressed, is a major sin.
A minor sin may become a major sin through persistence in committing it, which indicates the perpetrator's negligence regarding Allah's commands. Moreover, underestimating minor sins is ruinous because they accumulate until they destroy their perpetrator.
Scholars have cited Allah's Almighty saying as proof that avoiding major sins expiates minor ones: ﴿If you avoid the major sins which you are forbidden, We will remove from you your [minor] evil deeds and admit you to a noble entrance [i.e., Paradise]﴾ [An-Nisa': 31]. A Muslim strives to constantly purify their record, and if they avoid destructive acts and major sins, Allah will forgive them what is less than that from minor transgressions.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- 8876
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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