what is adultery in islam

In Islam, adultery is considered one of the most heinous and deadliest of sins. It is defined as consensual sexual relations between two individuals, at least one of whom is married to someone else. The Quran explicitly commands Muslims not to commit adultery, stating that it is an abomination and an evil way. Adultery is regarded as a violation of the matrimonial bond and is condemned by Allah in the Quran. The severity of adultery is emphasized by the fact that it has often been conjoined in the Quran with the gravest of all sins. Islamic teachings warn against adultery in various ways, and it is considered among the major sins in Islam. The legal term "zina" in Islam refers to a criminal act that invites punishments and other legal applications, encompassing any prohibited act related to illicit sexual relations, not just sexual intercourse.