Breaking a kasam (oath) in Islam requires expiation (Kaffarat Yameen) to atone for the broken promise to Allah. This expiation serves as a means of seeking forgiveness and rectifying the situation.
Expiation (Kaffarat Yameen) for Breaking an Oath
If someone breaks a valid oath, they must perform one of the following acts of expiation in the specified order:
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Feeding the Needy: Providing food to ten poor or needy individuals. The food should be of the same quality and quantity that the person normally feeds their own family.
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Clothing the Needy: Providing clothing to ten poor or needy individuals. The clothing should be sufficient to cover the awrah (parts of the body that must be covered according to Islamic guidelines).
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Freeing a Slave: (This option is typically not applicable in modern times due to the abolition of slavery).
If a person is unable to perform any of the above due to financial constraints, then they are obligated to:
- Fasting: Fasting for three consecutive days.
Key Considerations Regarding Oaths:
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Intent: The oath must be made with a clear intention and understanding of its implications. Casual or unintentional statements are not considered binding oaths.
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Valid Oath: The oath must pertain to something permissible according to Islamic teachings. An oath to commit a sinful act is not valid and should be broken.
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Preference: It is generally preferred to avoid making oaths, and to fulfill them if made. However, if breaking an oath would lead to a greater good or prevent harm, it is permissible, but expiation is still required.
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Kaffarah is Compulsory: It is important to perform kaffarah as soon as possible after breaking a valid oath.
In summary, breaking a kasam in Islam involves specific expiations designed to seek forgiveness and rectify the violation of the oath. This highlights the importance of being mindful of one's words and commitments in Islam.
