Published on Feb 05 2010 

Huzur gave a discourse on sin in his Friday Sermon today. Citing verse 121 of Surah Al An’am, the translation of which reads: ‘And eschew sin be it apparent or hidden. Surely, those who earn sin will be rewarded for that which they have earned.’ (6:121) Huzur explained the literal meanings of the Arabic word used therein; ‘Ithim’ (sin).  Huzur said it means sin, crime, or something wrong or exceeding limits, or an act of disobedience that is punishable, or a thought-process that stops one from doing good or an illegal act. Huzur said the Arabic word ‘dhanb’ also connotes sin, but the difference in the meanings is that dhanb is a sin that is committed both unintentionally and intentionally, whereas ithim is that sin which is generally intentional. The verse draws attention to two matters; one is to avoid the obvious and apparent sins as well as the secret ones, to reflect and ponder before doing anything. Secondly, it infers that there are some deeds that appear good but in reality they result in bad consequences. It is only after doing these deeds that it is realised how corrupt they are and how difficult it is to leave them and thus starts a vicious cycle of sin.

God states that one who is firm on taqwa should keep an eye on evil that is apparent and evil that is not apparent and seek God’s help before doing anything. Do not be too taken in by something that has apparent beauty. Where there is the slightest of indication of doubt, thoroughly explore it.  Seek God’s help and guidance, there is blessing in it and it also protects one from bad consequences. It is made clear that unless taqwa is kept in view in everything in life, the difference between halal(permissible) and haram (forbidden) may not be understood. If one then falls in sin and God punishes, no excuses will avail. The verse preceding the aforementioned one clarifies a matter of principle that many people tend to mislead therefore it is important to be able to differentiate between halal and haram on a personal level. Moreover, by using the word Ithim, it has been made clear that, if in spite of this guidance once does not desist and is affected by those who mislead then one is knowingly committing sin and sin that is committed intentionally is punishable.

God has given many commandments with reference to ithim. In Surah Al Ar’af it is stated: ‘Say, ‘My Lord has only forbidden foul deeds, whether open or secret, and sin and wrongful transgression, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has sent down no authority, and that you say of Allah that of which you have no knowledge.’ (7:34) Huzur explained that this verse further clarifies that Islam strictly forbids all satanic deeds. As a believer one should always look out for those deeds that are based on taqwa and protect oneself from those deeds that take one away from taqwa. Some things one does covertly and Satan is always on the lookout to tempt one by presenting sin in a beautiful form so that one would start following it. God thus warns not to go near such things. As the verse states, ‘My Lord has only forbidden foul deeds…’ be they open or be they secret. While this identification of indecency is made, the antidote is also given; ‘…Surely, Prayer restrains one from indecency and manifest evil…’ (29:46). Huzur said as indecency can be seen all around, especially in this day and age, therefore by prescribing five daily Prayers, believers are enjoined to protect themselves from it. 

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