Restitution

Restitution is the moral requirement of justice to repair the damage done to another by returning stolen goods or offering just compensation for harm caused. The Seventh Commandment requires restitution for theft, fraud, or deliberate damage (CCC 2412, 2454).

Essential for Forgiveness

Sincere repentance for sins against justice necessarily involves the intention to make restitution. Without the willingness to repair the harm done to the extent possible, true contrition is lacking. Zacchaeus demonstrated this when he promised Jesus he would restore fourfold whatever he had extorted (Luke 19:8; CCC 2412).