Have you ever felt like something is holding you back from becoming the best Muslim you can be? You try to improve, but certain habits or mistakes keep pulling you down. It’s frustrating, isn’t it?
The truth is, some sins can damage your faith and distance you from Allah without you even realizing it. But here’s the good news—you can change. How can I be a better Muslim? The answer starts with recognizing these mistakes and working to correct them. Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful. He gives us countless chances to fix our mistakes and come back to Him.
In this blog, we’ll talk about five major sins that can seriously harm your faith. These are not just small mistakes—they are among the worst actions a Muslim can commit. But don’t worry, we won’t just list them. We’ll also share practical ways to avoid them and turn back to Allah if you’ve fallen into them.
Let’s get started.
Understanding Major Sins in Islam
Not all sins are the same. In Islam, there are major sins (Kaba’ir) and minor sins (Saghair). Major sins are the worst kinds of disobedience to Allah. They bring serious consequences in this life and the hereafter unless a person sincerely repents.
How Do We Know What’s a Major Sin?
A sin is considered major if:
- Allah warns against it in the Quran with severe punishment.
- The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) strongly condemned it in Hadith.
- It carries a legal punishment (Hudood) in Islamic law, like theft or adultery.
Major vs. Minor Sins: What’s the Difference?
Minor sins are small mistakes, like speaking without thinking or wasting time. But here’s something important—small sins add up if you don’t seek forgiveness. They can become dangerous if done repeatedly.
Major sins, on the other hand, are much more serious. They can lead a person away from Allah if they don’t repent. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Avoid the seven destructive sins.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
But don’t lose hope! But don’t lose hope! How can I be a better Muslim if I’ve committed these sins? The answer is simple—sincere repentance. Allah’s mercy is greater than any sin. If you regret, stop, and ask for forgiveness, He will forgive you.
Now, let’s look at five major sins you should avoid.
5 Major Sins You Must Avoid
Some sins are worse than others. How can I be a better Muslim? One important step is to avoid major sins that can harm your faith and bring punishment from Allah. But don’t worry—every sin can be forgiven if you repent sincerely. Let’s look at five major sins you should avoid and how to stay away from them.
1. Shirk – Worshiping Someone Other Than Allah
Shirk means associating partners with Allah. It’s the worst sin in Islam because it goes against Tawheed, the belief that only Allah deserves worship.
Examples of Shirk
- Praying to saints or graves, asking them for help.
- Wearing charms or amulets, thinking they have power.
- Believing someone other than Allah controls your destiny.
How Can I Be a Better Muslim and Avoid Shirk?
- Strengthen your faith by learning about Tawheed.
- Always ask Allah alone for help and guidance.
- Avoid superstitions and practices that go against Islam.
2. Riba – Dealing with Interest
Riba (usury or interest) is when you profit unfairly from lending money. Islam strictly forbids it because it leads to economic injustice.
Why Is Riba So Bad?
- It makes the rich richer and the poor poorer.
- It creates greed and selfishness in society.
- Allah warns against it in the Quran:
“Allah has permitted trade and forbidden interest.” (Quran 2:275)
How Can I Be a Better Muslim and Stay Away from Riba?
- Use Islamic banking that follows Shariah law.
- Avoid credit cards and loans with interest.
- Live within your means and save instead of borrowing.
3. Backbiting & Slander – Speaking Ill of Others
Talking badly about someone behind their back is called Gheebah (backbiting). If it’s a lie, it’s Bohtan (slander). Both are major sins.
Why Is It So Harmful?
- It destroys trust between people.
- It ruins relationships and spreads hate.
- The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Backbiting is to mention something about your brother that he dislikes.” (Muslim)
How Can I Be a Better Muslim and Avoid Gheebah?
- Think before you speak—would you say it to their face?
- Change the topic if others start gossiping.
- Ask Allah for forgiveness if you’ve done it before.
4. Disrespecting Parents
Islam places huge importance on treating parents with kindness. Being rude, ignoring them, or hurting their feelings is a major sin.
How People Disrespect Their Parents Today
- Yelling at them or rolling your eyes.
- Ignoring their calls or refusing to help them.
- Prioritizing friends over family.
How Can I Be a Better Muslim by Respecting My Parents?
- Speak to them with love and patience.
- Help them, even if they don’t ask.
- Pray for them and ask Allah to bless them.
5. Neglecting Salah (Prayer)
Salah is the most important act of worship after believing in Allah. Skipping prayers is a major sin that weakens your connection with Him.
Why Is Missing Salah So Dangerous?
- It distances you from Allah.
- It makes falling into other sins easier.
- The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Between a person and disbelief is leaving the prayer.” (Muslim)
How Can I Be a Better Muslim by Staying Consistent in Salah?
- Set reminders and make prayer a daily habit.
- Pray as soon as you hear the Adhan (call to prayer).
- Ask Allah to help you stay committed.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Today
Avoiding major sins isn’t always easy. But how can I be a better Muslim? The answer is simple—make an effort every day to improve your relationship with Allah. His mercy is greater than any mistake, and He always gives us a chance to change.
So, start now. Repent sincerely, seek forgiveness, and make an effort to improve. Even small changes matter.
Also, take a moment to reflect—are there any sins you need to work on? What’s one action you can take today to strengthen your faith?
If you found this helpful, explore more Islamic self-improvement articles on Jannah Journeys. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for regular reminders and tips. Let’s grow together on this journey toward Allah.
FAQs
Q. How can I increase my Iman (faith) when I feel spiritually low?
A. It’s normal to have ups and downs in faith. When you feel low, reconnect with the Quran, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and sincere dua. Doing acts of kindness and seeking knowledge also help reignite your Iman.
Q. Is it okay to take small steps in improving my faith?
A. Absolutely! Islam encourages progress, not perfection. Even small changes, like adding an extra sunnah prayer or avoiding one bad habit, can bring you closer to Allah.
Q. How can I balance my worldly life and my faith?
A. Islam doesn’t ask you to give up your worldly life—it teaches balance. Prioritize your obligations (like Salah), make your intentions pure, and turn everyday tasks into acts of worship by doing them for Allah’s sake.
Q. How can I help my family and friends become better Muslims?
A. The best way is to lead by example. Show kindness, patience, and good character. Share knowledge in a gentle way, and make dua for them. Guidance comes from Allah, so trust in His timing.
