Helping a killer

Question

Zayd deliberately killed ‘Umar; the cause was a dispute over some land. Now, after the killing has taken place, Zayd is anxious about what way there is to forgiveness (maghfira). Is there any way for such a person to be forgiven? Is it permissible in the Shari‘a, after the killing, to strive for the release of such a person and to help him, so that he somehow gets free and in future refrains from such deeds?

Answer

He should keep praying for the forgiveness of the slain man, perform isal al-thawab (gifting the reward of good deeds) for him, help (support) his children and console them, and occupy himself as much as possible, with remorse, in repentance (tawba) and seeking forgiveness (istighfar). It is hoped of Allah Most High, the Real, that He will lighten this grave crime.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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