How Can One Respond to the Argument That One Can Sin and Repent Afterward? – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani


Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Question

How can one respond to the argument that a person can just commit a sin and repent afterward?

Answer

The Seriousness of Sin

One should not deem their sin insignificant but rather reflect on the greatness of the One they are disobeying.

There is a fundamental difference between someone who sins while struggling against their desires and someone who sins out of disregard.

The former may feel regret and strive to improve, while the latter lacks realization of the reality of Allah’s greatness.

When Minor Sins Become Major

It is important to recognize that minor sins can become major in certain circumstances. One of the ways this happens is by considering the sin insignificant.

When a person repeatedly dismisses their sins as trivial, they risk hardening their heart and distancing themselves from Allah.

The Correct Approach

If you find yourself falling into this mindset, immediately cease and desist from the sin. Engage in sincere and comprehensive tawba (repentance), which includes feeling genuine remorse for the sin, resolving never to return to it, and seeking Allah’s forgiveness with sincerity.

One should never accept disobedience to Allah, even in times of struggle.

True repentance is not just about seeking forgiveness but also about striving to avoid falling into sin again.

May Allah grant us sincerity and steadfastness.

Resources

The Conditions Of Repentance- https://seekersguidance.org/answers/g…
Is One’s Repentance Valid If They Believe They Will Succumb to That Sin Again?- https://seekersguidance.org/answers/g…

[Shaykh] Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, a distinguished scholar in the Islamic sciences, is the Founder and Executive Director of SeekersGuidance. He studied under renowned scholars globally for ten years, beginning in Damascus and continuing in Amman, Jordan. Notable mentors include Shaykh Adib al-Kallas and Shaykh Hassan al-Hindi. After completing his studies, Shaykh Faraz returned to Canada in 2007 and established SeekersGuidance, dedicated to spreading reliable, relevant, and inspiring Islamic knowledge online and on the ground.