There remains here a “question” that often causes confusion: someone whose circumstances are unknown may outwardly do something contrary to the revealed law, yet possibly have an excuse recognized by that law. Examples include a state of ecstasy in which he transgresses the revealed law, when it is unclear whether his state is genuine or feigned; or taking property apparently without its owner’s permission, when he may know that the owner willingly consents.

If it is said that such a person should be censured, he may in fact have an excuse. But if it is said that he should not be censured, this entails allowing people whose circumstances are unknown to persist in apparent violations of the revealed law. In such cases, one must first address the person gently, saying: “Outwardly, this is wrong. As for the inward reality, Allah has entrusted you with responsibility for yourself. So explain your circumstances to us, or refrain from displaying this where doing so would cause confusion and temptation.” In doing so, you should follow a course that neither condones wrongdoing nor blames the innocent.

The governing principle is that someone habitually known for truthfulness and trustworthiness should be left unchallenged unless his words or actions are known to be false or unlawful. Someone known for lying or dishonesty should not be left unchallenged when the facts are unclear. As for someone whose character is unknown, judgment concerning him should be withheld.