The gravity of Zina (adultery and fornication) in Islam is so profound that the Qur’an warns not just against the act, but against approaching it entirely. In an era where illicit relationships are becoming normalized and individuals may seek sexual satisfaction outside of marriage due to domestic dissatisfaction, a believer may face direct solicitation to commit this sin.
When a person refuses such an invitation and is met with insults or emotional manipulation, they often feel conflicted about whether to maintain contact to “save” the other person or to cut ties completely. Islamic scholars provide clear guidance on the severity of the sin and the boundaries of interaction.
The Heinous Nature of the Sin
Islam takes a decisive stance against illicit sexual relations. It is considered one of the most heinous and deadly sins, often mentioned in the Qur’an alongside the gravest of all sins: Shirk (associating partners with Allah).
The enormity of Zina stems from its dire consequences: it erodes the trust and tranquility that form the foundation of family life, corrodes the purity of the soul, and destroys one’s faith. To prevent this, Allah commands:
“And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.” (Quran 17:32, Saheeh International)
Spiritual and Eternal Consequences
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) issued severe warnings regarding the state of a person’s faith while committing this act.
He (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“The adulterer is not a believer at the moment when he is committing adultery…” (Sahih al-Bukhari 2475)
This indicates that the bond of Islam is cast away from the neck of the sinner during the act. Furthermore, in narrations describing the Prophet’s Ascension (Mi’raj), specific and humiliating punishments were shown to him regarding those who committed adultery, highlighting their disgrace in the Hereafter.
Allah warns of the penalty:
“…And whoever does that will meet a penalty. Multiplied for him is the punishment on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein humiliated – Except for those who repent…” (Quran 25:68-70, Saheeh International)
Dealing with Solicitation and Bad Company
If a Muslim is solicited to commit Zina, their primary obligation is to refuse immediately. If the other party responds with abuse or claims they will find someone else, the believer should not feel guilty for protecting their chastity.
Regarding maintaining contact to “help” the person:
- Advise with Caution: One may advise the person to fear Allah and repent. If they show a genuine inclination toward repentance, they may be guided to the right path.
- Cut Ties: If the person insists on the sin or continues to invite the believer to it, there is no alternative but to cut all relations. Continued association with those who persist in major sins will eventually shake one’s own faith.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“A man follows the religion of his friend; so each one should consider whom he makes his friend.” (Sunan Abi Dawud 4833)
Self-Preservation
While corruption may appear widespread, a believer must look at the good that remains and protect themselves from wicked environments. On the Day of Judgment, those who encouraged sin will disassociate from one another.
“[And they should consider that] when those who have been followed disassociate themselves from those who followed [them], and they [all] see the punishment, and cut off from them are the ties [of relationship].” (Quran 2:166, Saheeh International)
Therefore, saving oneself from the Hellfire takes precedence over maintaining a relationship with someone who invites to sin.
