What is the ruling regarding money stolen by a woman who has repented, but lacks the courage to confront those she stole from and does not possess the money to return it?
Whoever desires to make a sincere repentance from theft must return the stolen goods to their owners or their heirs. If that is not possible, then he must seek their forgiveness. If they do not forgive him, he remains liable and may receive from zakat to pay off his debt. He should also frequently seek Allah's forgiveness for them, supplicate for them, and perform good deeds. If he does not know the owners, their heirs, or their whereabouts, he must donate the stolen goods on their behalf, along with performing many good deeds. He must return the goods whenever he is able to; if he is unable, we hope that Allah accepts his repentance.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/89989