Vowing to fast for a year and slaughter a camel if her son returns

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Q: A person's mother, who is eighty years old, made a vow to observe Sawm (Fast) for a whole year and slaughter a camel if her young child returned to the Kingdom safely. She slaughtered the camel, but was unable to observe Sawm due to her old age. What is the ruling of Shari`ah (Islamic law) on this act?

A: This mother has to offer Kaffarah (expiation) for her unfulfilled vow. The Kaffarah involves feeding (Part No. 23; Page No. 225) ten Miskins (needy persons) by giving each Miskin half a Sa` (1 Sa`=3 kg. Approx.) of food, or providing them with clothing by giving each a garment, or emancipating a believing slave. If she cannot afford any of these, she must observe Sawm for three days.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.