Major Sins in Islam, Christianity, and Judaism: Similarities, Differences, and Social Relevance


Introduction


The concept of major sins plays a central role in all three Abrahamic faiths — Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These sins are considered serious moral and spiritual transgressions, condemned strongly in sacred texts and often linked to severe worldly or eternal consequences. While each religion defines and lists them differently, their moral foundations are closely related due to their shared prophetic origins.



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1. Major Sins in Islam


In Islam, the term Kabirah (major sin) refers to sins explicitly mentioned in the Qur’an or the Sunnah, accompanied by a warning of severe punishment or curse. Some of the most well-known include:


1. Shirk (associating partners with God — the gravest sin)


2. Unjust murder


3. Witchcraft and sorcery


4. Usury (riba)


5. Theft


6. Adultery and sodomy


7. False testimony


8. Severing family ties


9. Consuming the wealth of orphans


10. Fleeing from the battlefield


Scholars differ on the exact number, with some listing up to seventy major sins. Sincere repentance, renewed faith, and righteous deeds are the means of forgiveness.


2. Major Sins in Christianity


In Christianity, particularly in Catholic theology, the term Mortal Sin refers to sins that separate the soul from God’s grace unless absolved through confession and repentance. The well-known Seven Deadly Sins, formalized in medieval tradition, are:


1. Pride


2. Greed


3. Lust


4. Envy


5. Gluttony


6. Wrath


7. Sloth


These are considered root sins that lead to many other moral failings. In Protestant traditions, while there is no identical list, the focus remains on actions clearly contrary to God’s will (e.g., murder, adultery, idolatry, lying).


3. Major Sins in Judaism


In Judaism, while all sins can be forgiven if the sinner repents, some transgressions are considered so severe that one must avoid them even at the cost of life. The Talmud identifies three such sins:


1. Idolatry


2. Murder


3. Sexual immorality (including adultery and incest)


In addition, deliberate violation of the Sabbath, dishonoring parents, swearing falsely in God’s name, and oppressing widows or orphans are heavily condemned in Jewish scripture.


4. Similarities


Idolatry/Shirk: In all three religions, worshiping anyone or anything other than the One God is a supreme offense.


Unlawful killing: The murder of an innocent person is a universally grave sin.


Sexual immorality: Adultery and forbidden sexual relations are condemned in all three faiths as a violation of the sanctity of family.


False testimony and betrayal: Lying under oath or breaking trust is considered a major moral violation.


Oppression of the vulnerable: Injustice toward orphans, widows, and the poor is strongly prohibited.


5. Differences


Classification and number: Islam provides a broad list based on direct scripture; Catholic Christianity defines seven root sins; Judaism focuses on a few absolutely unforgivable acts.


Path to forgiveness:


Islam — sincere repentance (tawbah) and restitution.


Catholicism — confession to a priest and penance.


Judaism — Teshuva (repentance) and making amends.



Focus of judgment: Christianity often emphasizes inner motives (e.g., lustful thoughts as sin), while Islam and Judaism consider both actions and intentions.


6. Why These Concepts Become More or Less Prominent


a) Factors That Intensify Their Importance


Times of crisis or cultural threat: Societies facing external pressure often reaffirm religious and moral values.


Strong religious leadership: Charismatic leaders and active clergy can revive awareness of major sins.


Religious legal systems: In communities where laws derive from religious codes, major sins often have both spiritual and legal consequences.



b) Factors That Weaken Their Importance


Secularism: Separation of religion from law and politics reduces the influence of religious morality in public life.

Modernity and individualism: Emphasis on personal choice can diminish the sense of obligation to traditional moral rules.


Global media and culture: New social norms can normalize behaviors once seen as major sins.


Reinterpretation of scripture: Modernist readings may redefine or narrow the scope of what is considered a major sin.


7. Conclusion


The major sins in Islam, Christianity, and Judaism may differ in classification, number, and method of atonement, but they share a strong core of moral principles. Idolatry, murder, sexual immorality, lying, and injustice to the weak stand as universal red lines.

Changes in how these sins are perceived and enforced often reflect broader social, political, and cultural dynamics rather than changes in the religious texts themselves.

Even today, while the concept of major sins may be less emphasized in some secular societies, it remains central in religious communities, shaping moral identity and guiding personal conduct.