notifications_active Weekly Meshkat-e Noor Session: Thursdays at 20:30 at Haj Reza Mosque
Dear teacher, there are some people who steal goods from shops, particularly among women. Is it permissible to reveal their names so that those around them will recognize them and take care to protect their belongings? We may think of these people as respectable. Would revealing the names of people in this group amount to damaging their reputations? How should we handle such cases?
When dealing with thieves, one should first admonish them and enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, while investigating the reasons behind the theft. If they are stealing out of need, efforts should be made to address that need. If these measures have no effect and theft has become a profession, there is no objection to revealing the thieves’ names in order to protect the property of the faithful.
Certainly, at the outset it is better to offer a reminder and enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong.
The reason for the theft should be investigated. If it stems from serious need, efforts should be made to address that need.
The person should be threatened with exposure, either openly, indirectly, or discreetly—for example, through a note.
If these initial measures have no effect and the theft becomes a habitual practice, the person should be exposed in order to protect the property of the believers.