Is distributing photocopied books, whether in print or electronic form, considered an ongoing sin that continues even after death, and how can one repent from it?
The jurists have agreed that intellectual property rights are protected for their owners. Publishing and distributing books without permission is considered an infringement on the rights of their authors, and the perpetrator bears the consequences proportionate to the damage inflicted upon the rights holder. There is no basis for the notion that the sin of copying software continues after the death of the copier. As for repentance from this sin, it involves ceasing the infringement, feeling remorse, resolving not to repeat it, and attempting to seek forgiveness from the rights holders or reconcile with them. If one is unable to do so, it is hoped that sincere repentance between the servant and his Lord will suffice. Some scholars have permitted copying without permission for personal use only, provided there is no financial gain from it and it is limited to what is needed.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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