Q:
I swore by the Mus-haf (Qur’an-book), while holding it in my hand, that I will never enter my brother’s house as long as I shall live.
Can I break this oath according to the Shari‘ah (Islamic law)? May Allah reward you with the best.
A:
It is permissible for you to break your oath not to enter your brother’s house, but you will have to offer Kaffarah (expiation) for the broken oath. The Kaffarah is to feed ten Miskin (needy people) or clothe them, or free a believing slave. If you cannot do any of these things, you should observe Sawm (Fasting) for three days. It is authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said,
“By Allah! If Allah wills, if I ever make an oath and then see that something else is better than it, I will offer Kaffarah (expiation) for my oath and do that which is better.”
(Related by
Al-Bukhari)
May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.