⚖️ Delving into KABĪRAH (كبيرة): The Notion of Major Sins in Islam
Definition
Kabīrah (كبيرة), meaning “great,” refers to the category of major sins in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. These are serious transgressions that are explicitly prohibited in the Qur’an and Hadith and are considered highly punishable under Islamic law.
Etymology
Kabīrah is derived from the Arabic root k-b-r, which translates to “great” or “large.” The term “كبيرة (Kabīrah)” is the feminine form of “كبير (kabīr)”, emphasizing significance or gravity.
Background
In Islamic theology, sins are categorized into major (Kabā’ir) and minor (Ṣaghā’ir) sins. The concept of Kabā’ir underlines sins that have severe consequences both in this life and the afterlife. Major sins, such as theft, fornication, murder, and apostasy, are not only forbidden by religious text but also by divine authority, invoking specific punishments.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Although the notion of categorizing sins exists in various religious traditions, the specifics and punishments can greatly differ:
- Christianity: Sins are often categorized as mortal and venial. Mortal sins are similar to Kabā’ir in their seriousness.
- Judaism: Similar to Islam, Jewish law delineates between more and less severe transgressions.
- Hinduism and Buddhism: Sins or misconducts can impact one’s karma, affecting both present life and rebirth.
Synonyms
- Gunāh-i-Kabīrah: (Persian) Meaning “great sin.”
- Major Sin: Translation of the concept into English.
Antonyms
- Ṣaghīrah (صغيرة): Minor sin.
Related Terms
- Ḥarām (حرام): Forbidden actions.
- Tauba (توبة): Repentance.
- Zina (زنا): Adultery, a specific Kabīrah sin.
- Shirk (شرك): Associating partners with God, considered the gravest sin.
Exciting Facts
- Theodicy: The concept of Kabīrah ties into Islamic theodicy, exploring why evil exists if God is omnipotent and benevolent.
- Number of Sins: Different scholars enumerate a varying number of major sins. The Hadith by Sahih Bukhari lists seven, while later scholars expanded this list.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Verily, the gravest sin is to associate others with Allah (Shirk); forsaking one’s duties to parents; then bearing false witness.” – Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Suggested Literature and Studies
- “Major Sins in Islam” by Muhammad A. Halim – Comprehensive exploration of major sins and their legal ramifications.
- “God’s Rule: The Politics of World Religions” by Jacob Neusner – Offering a comparative study of sin and law in various religions.
- “Treasury of Islamic Ethics” by Ibrahim Ibn Al-Mawardi – Examines ethical dimensions from an Islamic perspective.
Quiz Section
Farewell Inspiration
May you continually seek understanding with a heart full of wisdom and a soul attuned to the subtleties of divine guidance.
Hassan ibn Zahra,
October 3, 2023
