Do I need to feed poor or fast to make up for breaking a promise ?.How can I cancel a promise made ?.

· 7 Ramadan 1422 AH1 min readFatwa 4212English

Question

As-salaamu alaikum, I once made a promise to Allah (saying "wallahi") that I would give up a certain act. Unfortunately I have broken that promise twice. I have prayed salaat at-Tawba on both occassions, but seem to recall that their may be an expiation (fasting? or feeding the poor?). Please can advise me what I need to do. Also, how can I cancel my promise if I feel I can no longer hold firm to it. Fi Amaanillah.

Answer

You had take a vow (Yamin) which should have been carried out. Since you violated your oath or vow, you should do one of the following: a) Feed ten poor people, or b) Clothe ten poor people.

If you are unable to do any of the above, you should fast for three consecutive days. Since you already broke your promise, your promise (or vow) is already cancelled.

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

for Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.

Answered by
for Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Questions about this ruling, answered only from the archive with sources.

Where scholars differ, it’s safer to take the more cautious view.

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