Q 1: I have to make several Kaffarahs (expiations) for breaking my oaths but I do not know how, as I cannot discern who is really poor. Is it permissible for me to pay the value of Kaffarah in money? How much should I give each poor person? Could I give the money to the committees receiving donations for the benefit of the Mujahids (those striving/fighting in the Cause of Allah) in Afghanistan and other countries?

A: Firstly, the Kaffarah for an oath is to free a believing slave, feed ten poor (Part No. 23; Page No. 28) people, or clothe them. Anyone who is unable to do this should fast for three days. The basic ruling is clear where Allah (Exalted be He) says: Allâh will not punish you for what is unintentional in your oaths, but He will punish you for your deliberate oaths; for its expiation feed ten Masâkîn (poor persons), on a scale of the average of that with which you feed your own families, or clothe them or manumit a slave. But whosoever cannot afford (that), then he should fast for three days. That is the expiation for the oaths when you have sworn. Secondly, If several oaths are made and broken for the same thing, only one Kaffarah is required. However, if the oaths are different, a Kaffarah is required for every broken oath. Thirdly, The Kaffarah is to be given to poor people as mentioned by Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). There is no impediment to give it to the Mujahids in Allah's Cause, because Allah included them in the eight categories to whom Zakah is payable, especially, if there are no poor people deserving the Kaffarah. Fourthly, It is not permissible to give the value as Kaffarah for breaking an oath in cash. This is contrary to the text of the Qur'an. Allah is never unmindful; He does not mention that money should be paid instead of Kaffarah. (Part No. 23; Page No. 29) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.