He Repented But Cannot Return What He Took To Those Whom He Wronged
Question :
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said that the bankrupt person is he who comes on the Day of Judgement, having wronged so and so, and having cursed so and so.
What then is Allah's ruling regarding a person who repents but cannot return what he took from others because he is poor?
Answer:
The rights of human beings among themselves are based on incontestability: one is not exonerated by merely repenting. He must return what he took from those whom he wronged or he must gain their pardon. If, however, a person repents sincerely to Allâh Almighty and is unable to pay for his wrongs because he is poor, Allah Almighty forgives him and will make, in whatever way He Almighty chooses, those who were wronged satisfied on the Day of Judgement. But this is for someone who is unable to make reparations. As soon as one is able, he must make reparations or gain their pardon. His repentance will not be complete until he follows what is mentioned above. This is because Allâh Almighty said:
"And all of you beg Allah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful."
And:
"So keep your duty to Allah and fear Him as much as you can.
Source:
The Permanent Committee
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 7 Pages 265-266
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