Is the debtor's interpretation accepted if they explain their debt as less than the actual amount while knowing the true extent?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Acknowledgment of Rights
Primary text
If the debtor interprets their statement as an amount less than the actual debt, while knowing the true amount owed, their interpretation is not accepted.
Supporting text
The companions (Ashabuna) hold that the debtor's interpretation is accepted whether they state a larger or smaller amount. This is the view of Al-Shafi'i, irrespective of whether the debtor knew the extent of the wealth or not, or whether they mentioned the specific amount or not, or if they stated the amount immediately after testimony confirming the true sum. This acceptance is based on the possibility that the actual debt is greater in persistence, benefit, or blessing due to being lawful earnings, or because the debt exists in obligation (dhimma).