What are the consequences for someone who, in their youth, stole religious tapes and books, and now regrets what they did?
Theft is forbidden in Islam, even if the stolen items are religious tapes, based on the Almighty's saying: "As for the thief, male or female, cut off their hands as a recompense for what they have earned, a deterrent from Allah. And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise." And the Prophet (peace be upon him) cursed the thief.
For repentance from theft to be valid and accepted, the following conditions must be met: abandoning the sin, regretting what you have done, resolving not to return to it, and returning the stolen rights to their owners. If you cannot find the owners of the rights after making an effort to search for them, then give it away in charity on their behalf.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 45345
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- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy