What is the ruling on someone who has met the first three conditions of repentance and has resolved to return material rights to their owners, but is unable to return them immediately, while the owners of the rights demand their immediate return or imprisonment?
The repentant individual must return rights to their owners, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Whatever a hand takes, it is responsible for it until it returns it." If he is unable to return them, they remain his responsibility until he is able to do so. The rightful owners should grant him respite until he is able to pay. The authorities should understand the matter and persuade the rightful owners of the necessity of granting respite. It is recommended to seek Allah's help in settling debts and to supplicate with the established prophetic prayers.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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