What is the ruling on retracting a vow to give charity equal to double the obligatory lifetime Zakat after leaving the job for which the vow was made? Is the amount exceeding the value considered charity or Zakat, and is it permissible for the one giving the charity to intend it as charity on behalf of his deceased father?

A vow of charity is obligatory to fulfill, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Whoever vows to obey Allah, let him obey Him." However, a vow contingent on a condition that will not materialize unless Allah decrees it is initially discouraged. Nevertheless, whoever makes such a vow is obligated to fulfill it. The foundation of a vow lies in intention. If you intended to perform it for life, it is binding upon you. If you intended to perform it only during your employment, it is not binding after leaving that job. If your intention is unclear, the motivating factor behind the vow is the reference point. If you are unable to fulfill your vow, you must offer an expiation like that for a broken oath. What you give in excess of the Zakat (definition) amount is considered charity, not Zakat, and you are obligated to give it due to the vow. It is not permissible to intend this excess as Zakat for the following year. It is also not permissible to intend this excess as charity on behalf of your deceased father; rather, you should intend it as fulfillment of the obligatory vow.