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Chapter 2 - Taubah Hadeeth no. 23 ... The Explanation If it is questioned: Is it preferable for the individual who has committed fornication to present himself before the judge, and confess [to his crime] before him, in order for the punishment to be executed upon himself, or is it preferable to conceal that action? This matter requires particularization: Perhaps an individual has sought sincere penitence, he regrets [his action] and recognizes himself that he shall not return [to it]. It is preferable for this individual not to present himself before [the judge] and inform him [about the deed], rather he ought to place that matter [as] a secret between himself and Allah. For whosoever seeks penitence towards Allah shall be forgiven by Him. In relation to one who fears that his penitence is not sincere and that he will return to the [commission] of the misdeed on another occasion: It is preferable for this individual to present himself before the ruler ? the judge ? or an individual [who occupies a comparable position], and confess [to his crime] in order that the punishment may be executed. (p.257)