How someone who earns unlawfully should repent

Scholars unanimously agree that immediate repentance (Tawbah) is obligatory for any sin (Al-Jami’ li Ahkam al-Qur’an: 12/238).

Allah Almighty says:
"O you who believe! Repent to Allah all together, that you may succeed." (Surah An-Nur, 31)

He also says:
"Whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself, then seeks forgiveness from Allah, will find Allah Most Forgiving and Most Merciful." (Surah An-Nisa, 110)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Whoever sincerely repents from a sin is like one who has no sin at all." (Ibn Majah, Hadith: 4250)

Types and Conditions of Tawbah

1. Tawbah between servant and Allah (Internal Tawbah)
This type is limited to sins committed against Allah alone, such as lying or drinking alcohol. Three conditions are essential:

• Sincere remorse

• Immediate abandonment of the sin

• Firm resolution never to return to it

This is mainly a matter of the heart and does not involve the rights of others.

2. Tawbah involving the rights of others (Rights-Based Tawbah)
Some sins require fulfilling the rights of others for repentance to be accepted:

• Rights of Allah: e.g., failing to pay Zakat. Repentance requires giving the due Zakat.

• Rights of people: e.g., theft or misappropriation. Repentance requires returning the property.

  • If the original item is lost, its equivalent must be returned.

  • If that is not possible, its value must be paid.

  • If one is unable to pay, they must intend firmly to repay once they are able.

Scholars agree that earning wealth unlawfully is a major sin, and repentance is essential. Allah says:
"O you who believe! Do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly." (Surah An-Nisa, 29)

Steps for Repenting from Unlawful Earnings

1. Return to the original owner if known and alive.

2. Return to the owner’s heirs if the owner has passed away.

3. Deposit in a legitimate fund for public welfare if the owner is unknown or cannot be found.
   (Al-Furu: 4/398)

Imam Qurtubi (RA) explains:

1. If someone possesses unlawfully earned wealth, such as through interest, they must return it to the rightful owner. If the owner is absent, they must try to locate them. If unsuccessful, they should give it as charity on the owner’s behalf.

2. If someone has wrongfully seized property, the same rule applies return it, or if impossible, give its equivalent in charity.

3. If lawful and unlawful wealth are mixed and the unlawful portion is uncertain, one must estimate the unlawful part and return or give it in charity. This ensures the remaining wealth is free from doubt.

4. If a person has acquired wealth through extensive injustice and cannot repay fully, they should distribute all their wealth for the welfare of the Muslim community, keeping only the bare minimum for necessities:

   • Clothes to cover the body for prayer (navel to knees)

   • One day’s food

If these essentials are not met, one may temporarily use someone else’s wealth even if the provider disapproves.
(Al-Jami’ li Ahkam al-Qur’an: 3/366-367)