Is a gift considered a debt that must be repaid, and if so, how does this align with the Prophet’s commendation of gifting and the poor person’s ability to repay it?

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, encouraged the exchange of gifts due to their effect in removing rancor and malice from the heart, and in bringing about love and affection. He used to accept gifts and reward for them. Rewarding for a gift is recommended, not obligatory, except in the case of a "gift of recompense" (hibat al-thawab), which is akin to a sale, making recompense for it obligatory. Scholars have divided gifts into three categories: charity given for the sake of Allah, a gift for love and affection, and a gift of recompense.