What is the ruling on one who suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in matters of worship and creed? Is it a sign of God's wrath? And what are the consequences for someone who vowed to abandon a sin but repeatedly commits it? Is expiation required every time? And is expiation incumbent upon him if he reverts to the sin after expiating, without a new vow?

The cure for obsessive thoughts is to ignore them and not pay attention to them. Whatever they present to you, whether concerning worship or creed, cast them away and do not care about them, for they are from the plots of Satan. Do not indulge in them, and strive to rid yourself of them. Whenever Satan casts something confusing into your heart, seek refuge in Allah and say: "I believe in Allah," and abandon the blameworthy thought. Your dislike for it and aversion to it do not harm your faith. Regarding your vow, since you have performed the expiation for the oath, your obligation has been fulfilled, and a second expiation is not required unless a phrase indicating repetition was uttered. So, cast away these obsessive thoughts, repent to Allah, and adhere to His law.