Vowing and being unable to fulfill the vow

537

Q: I am very disturbed and worried concerning a vow which I made but have not been able to fulfill for eight years. I married a young man, but Allah did not destine for me to have children. As time passed, I began to lose hope although hope should never be given up as regards Allah's Mercy. I made a vow to Allah that if I have a baby, I will not go out of my house for a year. I do not know how I could have said something like that. Anyhow, two months ago Allah blessed me with a child whom we named Ahmad. I hope that you will advise me on how to release myself from this vow, as I am very regretful and afraid of the consequences of what I did. May Allah keep you safe, and benefit the Muslims with your knowledge.

A: If the matter is as mentioned, you must offer a Kaffarah (expiation) of oath to expiate for your vow, after which it will be permissible for you to leave your home. The Kaffarah in this case is freeing a believing bondsman, feeding or clothing ten needy persons, and if you are not able to do any of these, you are to fast for three days. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.