What is the difference between error, cunning, indecency, grave sins, and destructive sins?
We have previously explained the meaning of a major sin (kabirah). The "mubiqat" are destructive sins, and in religious texts and the كلام of jurists, major sins (kabair) are referred to as "mubiqat," as in the hadith: "Avoid the seven destructive sins (mubiqat)." As for "fahishah" (abomination/indecency), it is an ugly act or an ugly word or deed. Anything whose ugliness is intense among sins and acts of disobedience is a fahishah. The term "fahishah" has been applied in religious texts to fornication/adultery (zina) and similar major sins. Thus, major sins (kabair) are the "mubiqat" and the "fawahish" (plural of fahishah), and all these terms are used interchangeably. As for "makr" (deception/scheming), it is resorting to trickery in secrecy, such as in the words of Allah Almighty: "And they planned a plan, and We planned a plan, while they perceived not." As for "khata'" (error), it is the opposite of what is correct. If it is intentional, it is said "khaṭi’a" (he sinned/erred intentionally), and if it is unintentional, it is said "akhṭa’a" (he made a mistake/erred).
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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