According to Dante, which sin is regarded as the most heinous?

In Dante Alighieri's "Divine Comedy," particularly in the "Inferno," treachery is considered the most heinous sin. This categorization stems from the notion that treachery involves betrayal of trust, an act that undermines the very relationships upon which society is built. It is a sin that directly impacts the bonds of loyalty and love among individuals, making it profoundly damaging.

Dante places traitors in the lowest circle of Hell, which reflects the severity with which he views this sin. This area, known as the Ninth Circle, is specifically reserved for those who have betrayed others, whether it be family, friends, or benefactors. The punishments allocated to these sinners are particularly harsh, symbolizing the deep moral outrage at the act of treachery, illustrating Dante’s belief that the betrayal of trust is a violation of fundamental human and divine ethics.

In contrast, while other sins such as lust, greed, or envy do hold significance and lead to destructive behaviors, they do not inherently violate the foundational trust that treachery breaks. This thematic focus on relationships and trust in Dante's work accentuates why treachery is deemed the most heinous sin.