The amount of Kaffarah for involuntary manslaughter

325

Q: It was the predestination of Allah (Exalted be He) that I was involved in an accident while I was driving my car, and my father and sister who were in my company consequently died. Moreover, the driver of the oncoming vehicle died immediately along with his colleague. The consequent investigation and traffic viewing found me to be fully responsible for the accident. How much do I have to pay as a Diyah (blood money) for the deceased? It may be worth mentioning that I asked my well-off cousins to help me but they refused and called me an ignorant person whom they did not like to help.Please tell me about the Kaffarah (expiation) and Diyah that I have to give? Finally, what is the duty of my cousins and relatives towards me?

A: If the matter is exactly as what is mentioned in the question, it will be Wajib (obligatory) for you to make Kaffarah of involuntary manslaughter for every person that died as a result of the accident. This Kaffarah is freeing a believing slave or, in case of inability to do so, observing Sawm (Fast) for two successive months. On the other hand, the matter of the Diyah should be referred to the court. (Part No. 21; Page No. 302) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.