Is the rectification of actions ('islaah al-'amal) a prerequisite for the acceptance of repentance in establishing legal rulings?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Testimonies
Primary text
The apparent view of Ahmad and Al-Khiraqi holds that the rectification of actions is not required for the acceptance of repentance to establish legal rulings, such as accepting testimony or validating a guardian's role in marriage. This is one opinion attributed to Al-Shafi'i. Evidence supporting the sufficiency of mere repentance includes the hadith, "Repentance wipes away what preceded it," and, "The one who repents from sin is like one who has no sin." Furthermore, forgiveness is attained solely through repentance, so legal consequences should follow the same principle. Additionally, repentance from polytheism through Islam does not require consideration of subsequent actions, despite polytheism being the greatest sin.
Supporting text
The opposing view requires the rectification of actions, except in cases where the sin was bearing false witness to adultery without completing the requisite number of witnesses; in such a case, mere repentance suffices. In all other matters, repentance is insufficient unless a year passes during which the repentance is evident and the person's righteousness is demonstrated. This position is supported by the verse: "Except for those who repent afterward and rectify" (Quran 24:5), as well as the action of 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) regarding Sabigh, who was shunned until his repentance was confirmed after a year.