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Breaking an oath or vow can feel like a heavy burden, leaving you wondering how to make things right.
The guilt of not fulfilling your promise can cause inner turmoil, and finding the right way to atone for it can be confusing. Kaffarah for breaking oath or vow is the solution that helps you restore balance and seek forgiveness.
Let’s explore the different types of Kaffarah, what scholars say, and how you can properly fulfill it.
Kaffarah is an act of atonement performed when a Muslim violates a sworn oath. This includes oaths made by invoking Allah or His attributes.
It is a merciful provision from Allah to purify the soul and extend support to the less fortunate. By fulfilling the kaffarah, a believer demonstrates repentance, seeks forgiveness, and aligns with the compassionate teachings of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of fulfilling vows. He (PBUH) also guided situations where one is unable to fulfill them.
As narrated by Ibn ‘Abbas:
"If someone makes a vow without specifying it, the expiation is the same as that for breaking an oath. If they make a vow and cannot fulfill it, the expiation is also the same. But if they can fulfill the vow, they should do so."
(Sunan Ibn Majah 2128)
Additionally, 'Aishah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,
"There is no vow to commit disobedience, and the expiation for such a vow is the same as the expiation for breaking an oath."
(Sunan Ibn Majah 2125)
These narrations highlight the gravity of making vows and provide clear instructions for atonement when they cannot be fulfilled.
The kaffarah for breaking an oath can be fulfilled through one of the following means:
As Abdullah ibn Umar explained:
"If someone breaks a sworn oath, they must either free a slave or clothe ten poor people. If the oath was not strongly emphasized, they must feed ten poor people, providing each with a mudd of wheat. If they cannot afford this, they should fast for three days."
(Malik’s Muwatta)
These forms of kaffarah allow the believer to seek forgiveness and reflect the social welfare aspect of Islamic teachings.
Scholars have differing opinions on whether monetary payment can replace the prescribed forms of kaffarah:
The Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali scholars hold that monetary payment is not permissible. They adhere strictly to the Quranic injunction:
“Allah will not call you to account for your thoughtless oaths, but He will hold you accountable for deliberate oaths.
The penalty for a broken oath is to feed ten poor people. It is the same as what you normally feed your own family, or to clothe them, or to free a bonded person. But if none of this is affordable, you must fast for three days. This is the penalty for breaking your oaths.
So be mindful of your oaths. This is how Allah makes things clear to you, so perhaps you will be grateful.”
(Al-Maa’idah 5:89)
This view emphasizes providing tangible benefits, such as food or clothing, as explicitly stated in the verse. Scholars like Ibn Qudaamah argue that substituting money undermines the specific obligations outlined by Allah, which serve both spiritual and societal purposes.
The Hanafi scholars permit monetary payment as a valid form of kaffarah. Al-Sarkhasi, a prominent Hanafi scholar, reasoned that monetary equivalence meets the goal of helping. This aid can be given through food or its monetary value.
The widely accepted view limits kaffarah to the specific forms of expiation in the Quran. This approach ensures adherence to divine guidance and maintains the balance between spiritual repentance and social welfare.
Kaffarah is a manifestation of Islam’s leniency and mercy towards its followers.
It offers an opportunity for repentance while simultaneously encouraging acts of kindness and support for the needy. Fulfilling kaffarah obligations helps Muslims purify their souls and benefits society at large.
The amount of Kaffarah for breaking an oath or vow is as follows:
Amount in US Dollar
Amounts in PKR
Note: While not applicable in modern times, freeing a slave is of significant historical importance in Islamic teachings as an act of liberation. Fasting for three consecutive days carries no financial cost but demands personal dedication and spiritual commitment.
To sum up, kaffarah for breaking oath or vow includes feeding, clothing, or fasting, with each form providing a way to seek forgiveness. Scholars emphasize its importance in restoring a person's connection with Allah.
The prescribed amounts for charity help those in need while fulfilling the atonement. Kaffarah cleanses the soul, demonstrating a commitment to both Allah and others. Ultimately, it’s a means of accountability and spiritual restoration.
To atone for breaking an oath, feed ten poor people or clothe them with one garment. Alternatively, give the monetary equivalent. If you're unable to do any of these, you must fast for three consecutive days.
Al-Zuhri (may Allah have mercy on him) said if someone breaks a promise to Allah, they must give charity. This charity should be equivalent to the expiation for a broken oath as prescribed by Allah. This is mentioned in al-Mudawwanah, 1/580.
Kaffarah is obligatory for an adult Muslim who intentionally breaks an oath invoking Allah. This obligation applies equally to men and women, regardless of whether the oath pertains to religious or worldly matters. The intentional nature of the act underscores the seriousness of making and breaking oaths in Islam.
Yes, it is permissible to perform kaffarah on behalf of another person, whether they are alive or deceased. However, specific conditions apply:
WRITTEN BY
Ali Raza (Islamic Theology)
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
