What is the ruling on one who commits zina?

Adultery is one of the gravest sins after polytheism (shirk) and murder. Allah the Almighty has condemned it and forbidden it, describing it as an abomination and an evil way. Its prohibition is agreed upon by all religions, and its punishment is one of the most severe because it is a crime against honor and lineage. Repentance from it is obligatory and accepted if its conditions are met.