to steal, or I entered seeking a copy of the Quran, or I wanted a drink of water.” What do we say?

We say: You are not permitted to enter except after seeking permission. You have therefore erred in this respect and deserve disciplinary punishment. As for your claiming that you were seeking a copy of the Quran, a book, or something similar, this is unlikely, because one seeking such things does not go to people’s homes; rather, he goes to libraries. As for his seeking water, that is possible if there is no water outside—as is the case in some countries, where one finds the door left open even at night. If a stranger comes, he may enter the place, thinking it is a public water source or an endowment for the people. This is possible.

In any case, whenever there are indications that support his truthfulness, he is allowed to go and pardoned; otherwise, he is held accountable for his offense.