"Avoid the seven sins that doom one to Hell." It was said: "O Messenger of Allah, what are they?" He said: "Associating others with Allah (Shirk), magic, killing a soul whom Allah has forbidden killing, except in cases dictated by Islamic law, consuming Riba, consuming the property of orphans, fleeing on the day of the march (to battlefield), and slandering chaste women who never even think of anything touching their chastity and are good believers."
The Book of Wills - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3671
"Avoid the seven sins that doom one to Hell." It was said: "O Messenger of Allah, what are they?" He said: "Associating others with Allah (Shirk), magic, killing a soul whom Allah has forbidden killing, except in cases dictated by Islamic law, consuming Riba, consuming the property of orphans, fleeing on the day of the march (to battlefield), and slandering chaste women who never even think of anything touching their chastity and are good believers."
Scholarly Commentary
This profound hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i enumerates the seven destructive sins (al-mūbiqāt) that lead to eternal damnation. The Prophet ﷺ listed them in order of severity, beginning with Shirk - associating partners with Allah - which is the gravest sin that nullifies all good deeds.
Magic involves seeking assistance from devils and constitutes disbelief. Unlawful killing violates the sanctity of life Allah has ordained. Riba (usury) warps economic justice and destroys society. Misappropriating orphans' wealth betrays divine trust. Desertion in battle shows cowardice and weak faith. Slandering chaste women destroys reputations and family honor.
These sins encompass violations against Allah's rights (ḥuqūq Allāh) and human rights (ḥuqūq al-'ibād), demonstrating Islam's comprehensive moral framework that protects both spiritual and worldly interests.
Legal Implications
Scholars note these sins carry both worldly legal penalties (ḥudūd) and otherworldly consequences. Some require specific punishments in Islamic law, while others necessitate sincere repentance (tawbah). The exception for lawful killing refers to judicial execution, lawful warfare, and other Sharī'ah-prescribed circumstances.
The warning emphasizes that while Allah's mercy encompasses all things, these particular sins require special vigilance and immediate repentance if committed, as they can lead to eternal destruction if one dies without seeking forgiveness.