Absolving oneself from injustice done to others

Q: I watched an Islamic seminar on T.V. In which some scholars were discussing the topic of absolving oneself from injustice done to others. One of them said that the person has to give people their rights back publicly. Another scholar said this should be done in secret. I started to think of the rights I have violated before I go to make Hajj in 1404 A.H. When I was young, I took some things from someone. I went to him at his house and told him that I have his things. I gave him some money and told him that they will be prohibited for me just like the prohibition of my mother unless he took them. (Part No. 23; Page No. 169) He forgave me but refused to take the money and gave them back to me. I appreciate your advice. May Allah reward you with the best! What should I do with the money? I heard a Hadith in which Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said, On the day of `Arafah, Allah's Pardon is delayed from the people who violate other people's rights. Is this true? It should be noted that I said to the person whose right I have violated that I would give him more money if the money I gave him was not enough.

A: First: Freeing oneself of the guilt of violating people's rights is obligatory and it has to be done immediately. It is not confined to the performance of Hajj or the like. Second: If the reality is as mentioned; that you prohibited the money for yourself just like your mother, if the person refused to take it, you will have to make Kaffarah (expiation). Kaffarah is feeding ten Miskins (needy people) or clothing them or setting a Muslim slave free. If you are unable to do any of these, you have to fast for three days. Third: It will be better for you to give the money he refused to take in charity and dedicate its reward for him.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.