The severer would not enter Paradise. Ibn Umar said that Sufyan (explained it as): One who severs the tie of kinship would not enter Paradise.
The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship - Sahih Muslim 2556 a
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and peace and blessings be upon His final Messenger Muhammad.
Textual Analysis
The hadith states: "The severer would not enter Paradise." The companion Abdullah ibn Umar clarified that Sufyan explained this term as referring to "one who severs the tie of kinship." This concise yet profound statement carries immense weight in Islamic ethics.
Meaning of "Al-Qāṭi'" (The Severer)
The term "al-qāṭi'" linguistically refers to one who cuts or severs. In this sacred context, it specifically denotes the one who cuts off family relations and neglects the rights of kinship (ṣilat al-arḥām). This includes withholding kindness, failing to maintain contact, or harboring animosity toward blood relatives.
Gravity of Severing Kinship Ties
The prohibition here is absolute and the consequence severe - exclusion from Paradise. This indicates the magnitude of this sin in Allah's sight. Maintaining family ties is among the greatest obligations after faith itself. The one who willfully severs these bonds demonstrates a profound deficiency in faith and character.
Scholarly Interpretation
Imam al-Nawawi comments that this hadith demonstrates the prohibition of cutting off relatives is among the major sins. Some scholars hold that the exclusion from Paradise applies to those who die upon this sin without repentance. Others interpret it as referring to being barred initially from entering, subject to Allah's ultimate mercy. The clarification by Ibn Umar through Sufyan ensures we understand the specific meaning intended by the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Practical Implications
The believer must actively maintain kinship ties through visitation, financial support when possible, kind words, and supplication. Even if relatives mistreat one, the Muslim responds with patience and continued kindness, seeking Allah's pleasure. This hadith serves as a grave warning against the destructive sin of family estrangement.
Conclusion
We seek refuge in Allah from being among those who sever family ties. May Allah enable us to fulfill the rights of our kin and unite our hearts. Success comes only from Allah, and our final prayer is all praise belongs to Allah, Lord of the worlds.