The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Avoid the seven great destructive sins." They (the people!) asked, "O Allah's Apostle! What are they?" He said, "To join partners in worship with Allah; to practice sorcery; to kill the life which Allah has forbidden except for a just cause (according to Islamic law); to eat up usury (Riba), to eat up the property of an orphan; to give one's back to the enemy and fleeing from the battle-field at the time of fighting and to accuse chaste women who never even think of anything touching chastity and are good believers."
The Seven Major Sins (Al-Kaba'ir)
This hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 6857 enumerates the gravest sins that lead to destruction. The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically warned against these seven due to their severe consequences in this life and the hereafter.
1. Shirk (Polytheism)
The greatest sin in Islam - associating partners with Allah in worship. This nullifies all good deeds and if one dies upon it without repentance, forgiveness is not granted.
2. Sorcery (Sihr)
Practicing magic involves disbelief and seeking help from jinn/devils. It corrupts society and leads people away from Tawhid.
3. Unlawful Killing
Taking life without right - except in cases prescribed by Islamic law (qisas, wartime, etc). This violates Allah's sanctity of life.
4. Usury (Riba)
Consuming interest destroys wealth and society. Allah declares war against those who engage in riba due to its oppression.
5. Misappropriating Orphan's Wealth
Consuming orphan's property unjustly is severe oppression against the most vulnerable. Guardians must protect, not exploit.
6. Desertion from Battlefield
Fleeing when fighting is obligatory shows cowardice and weak faith. It harms the Muslim community and betrust trust.
7. Slandering Chaste Women
False accusation against pure, believing women destroys reputations and families. It requires severe punishment in Islamic law.
Scholarly Commentary
These sins are called "destructive" because they lead to Allah's wrath and eternal punishment. Scholars note this list isn't exhaustive but represents the most grave categories of sin. Repentance is required for all, especially shirk which requires leaving it and affirming Tawhid.
The ordering indicates severity - beginning with shirk (against Allah) and ending with social crimes. This teaches us to prioritize rights of Allah then rights of people.