Is there expiation for this vow, and does the expiation fall away merely by the intention to atone for it?

This type of vow is called a "vow of obstinacy" (nathr al-lajaj), and its purpose is to encourage the performance of obligatory acts (fara'id) and sunnahs, and to avoid negligence in them. Scholars have differed on what is incumbent upon one who makes such a vow if they break it, holding three opinions:

1. He is required to offer an expiation for an oath (kaffarat yamin). 2. He is required to fulfill what he vowed. 3. He has the choice between offering an expiation for an oath and fulfilling what he vowed, and this is the most preponderant opinion.