The Hadiths of Anas and Abu Bakra on the Greatest Major Sins: A Study of their Meanings and Issues in Light of the Principles of Usul al-Fiqh

Abstract

This study examines and analyzes the two Ḥadīths of Anas and Abū Bakrah reported from the Prophet ﷺ concerning the gravest of major sins—namely associating partners with Allah (shirk), unlawful killing, disobedience to parents, and false testimony. The aim is to understand the meanings of these Ḥadīths, to discern the Prophet’s intended message in each of their statements, and to derive the jurisprudential issues built upon them. This is achieved through the application of the principles of Uṣūl al-Fiqh, the support of other Qurʾānic and Prophetic texts, and the insights of scholars in their commentaries. The study further seeks to uncover the reasons behind scholars’ disagreements on these matters, while ultimately arriving at the most preponderant opinions regarding the meanings of the words and phrases in the two Ḥadīths. In doing so, it highlights the harmony and coherence of the revealed texts, affirms the breadth of their meanings, and emphasizes the gravity of these sins which have been described as the gravest of all major sins, thereby warning Muslims against them. The study recommends highlighting the seriousness of these major sins in educational curricula and advocacy programmes to instill legal awareness of them.