Question on Hadith Jibril

Question on Hadith Jibril

by Faizan Nawaz -
Number of replies: 2

Assalamu alaykum Shaykh,

I wanted to ask from the perspective of Iman and Islam, how is a major sinner to be viewed? I read Ibn Rajab's commentary but would like to clarify if a major sinner is deemed to be deficient in their Iman or their Islam (or both). If so, are they considered a hypocrite in the Quranic sense or do hypocrites have no Iman at all?

Jazakallah Khair, May Allah reward you and everyone at Seekersguidance for your incredible efforts. 

In reply to Faizan Nawaz

Re: Question on Hadith Jibril

by Shaykh Yusuf Weltch -
Wa alaikum salaam,

One's rank with Allah Most High is veiled from us. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, "Verily Allah does not look at your forms or your bodies; rather He looks at your hearts and your intentions." Now, as a general point of belief, the scholars have agreed upon the fact that one's faith increases and decreases, in accordance to their sins and good deeds.

When we discuss a term, such as 'Major sinner', we must understand that this is but a legal ruling ascribe to someone who commited an outward major sin. Such a person is considered to have done actions contrary to the dictates of their faith. Linguistically, you could call such a person a hypocrite. However, hypocrite is of two types: one who acts contrary to what they claim and the other, on who believes contrary to what they claim.

The first type of hypocrite is still a believer but a sinful one.
The second type is a disbeliever as they profess faith in Islam publicly - whilst concealing disbelief in their hearts.

Both types of hypocrites are described throughout the Qur'an. However as we mentioned in the beginning - major sinner is a legal classification based on outward legal rulings. Allah Most High, however, knows the apparents and the concealed; He knows what is in one's heart regardless of their showing it publicly.

Righteousness and Transgression are qualities of the heart first and foremost. Thus a person involved in an outward major sin - such as drinking wine - however, they are filled with remorse, humilty, reverance, and pentance with Allah Most High - such a person is closer to righteousness than many of those who don't commit such aggriegious sins.

Hope this helps
Feel free to ask any follow up questions
In reply to Shaykh Yusuf Weltch

Re: Question on Hadith Jibril

by Faizan Nawaz -

Jazakallah khair Shaykh, that answered my question.