Offer expiation i.e

398

Q: I have a son named (A.M). Four years ago he caused an accident in which a man died. We paid the Diyah (blood money) sum, but at the time my son was still underage and he (Part No. 21; Page No. 337) did not have a driver's license, or even an ID card. Now I am worried for him from this sin. I hope you will guide us if it is obligatory for him to fast for two consecutive months or not. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) is my only support then him. He is a young man now, but I am afraid that he may not be able to fast. Please provide me with your opinion on this matter based on Allah's Command. Should he fast or feed the poor? May Allah support you! Note: Please inform me if it is permissible for me to fast on his behalf. May Allah reward you!

A: If at the time of the accident the boy had attained the age of puberty by reaching fifteen years, having nocturnal seminal emission, or growing of pubic hair, he must offer the Kaffarah (expiation) of involuntary manslaughter which is to free a believing bondsman, and if he cannot he must fast for two consecutive months. However, nothing else can be substituted for this, which also includes your fasting on his behalf if his condition is as you have described. However, if he had not attained the age of puberty at the time of the accident, there is no Kaffarah on him.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.