a greater one is like someone seeking refuge from scorching ground in fire. Moving from one sin to another is like moving from one false religion to another: the second may be worse than the first, less evil, or equally evil. The same applies to someone who neglects enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong, and someone who oversteps the bounds in doing so: either person’s sin may be greater, or their sins may be equal.

We know, from the signs Allah has shown us on the horizons and within ourselves, and from what He has testified to in His Book, that sins cause calamities. The evils suffered through calamities and retribution arise from evil deeds, while obedience brings blessings. Thus, a servant’s good deeds are a cause of Allah’s goodness toward him.

Allah Most High said:
“Whatever calamity befalls you is because of what your own hands have earned, and He pardons much.”
Surah al-Shūrā, 30

And Allah Most High said:
“Whatever good befalls you is from Allah, and whatever evil befalls you is from yourself.”
Surah al-Nisāʾ, 79

And Allah Most High said:
“Indeed, those of you who turned away on the day the two armies met—it was only Satan who caused them to slip because of some of what they had earned. But Allah has pardoned them.”