What is the ruling on someone who took money illegally, repented, wants to atone for his sin, but does not possess the money?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Remorse over sin is the first step towards repentance. Taking people's money unjustly is a forbidden sin and transgression, and repentance is not complete until what was taken is returned to its rightful owners, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The hand is responsible for what it takes until it returns it."
What is required of you, in addition to remorse, is a firm resolve not to return to that [sin], to increase seeking forgiveness and performing righteous deeds, and to be determined to fulfill those rights whenever you are able, even if through installments.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/119039
Where this answer came from
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 119039
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy