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How can repentance be sincere and not like the repentance of liars? Does having a good opinion [of Allah] have an effect on its acceptance? And how can repentance be sincere if an affliction occurs due to sins?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

A Muslim must be sincere in his intention towards Allah Almighty and repent to Him with a sincere repentance that fulfills all its conditions (abandoning the sin, regretting it, resolving not to return to it, and restoring rights). He should also accuse himself of shortcomings and renew his repentance, fearing that he has not fulfilled its due, while maintaining a good opinion of Allah and hoping for His forgiveness. Having a good opinion of Allah has a significant impact on the acceptance of repentance. Its acceptance cannot be known except in the hereafter, but if it is sound and fulfills its conditions, it will certainly be accepted. Sincere repentance has signs that inspire hope, and it is most perfect when it is sought for the sake of Allah, not to achieve a desired outcome or avert a feared one. If a servant feels a deficiency in sincerity, he should renew his repentance and correct his intention, knowing that he does not sin if he repents to avert a calamity, but he misses out on what is better.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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