Request for Forgiveness for Childhood Offense
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Question
In the past, as a child, I verbally offended a boy. I don't know if he remembers it today, but I have a guilty conscience about it. However, currently, I have no way to ask for his forgiveness — for the matter, he has strayed from the path. What should I do? Do something in his merit? Pray for him to return to the path?
Answer
Hello,
If you were under the age of mitzvot when you offended him, you are not obligated by law to ask for his forgiveness.
However, it is certainly correct to do so.
If it is not possible to ask for his forgiveness directly, you can send a messenger. If that is also not possible, pray to God to put it in his heart to forgive you.
[As established in the prayer 'Zoche' recited in various communities on the eve of Yom Kippur].