What is the ruling on a mother swearing an oath upon her children when angry?

An oath uttered unintentionally is considered a 'laghw' (idle oath) and requires no expiation. However, if the mother intentionally took an oath while being sound of mind and aware of what she was saying, then her oath is binding, and she is obligated to offer expiation if what she swore upon does not materialize. The expiation is: feeding ten poor persons, or clothing them, or emancipating a slave. If she is unable to do so, then she must fast for three days.

If the mother was so angry that she lost her discernment, then her oath is not valid. Anger has three states: 1. The highest state: The angry person loses consciousness and does not know what they are saying, and their statement has no legal ruling. 2. The initial state: The angry person is aware of what they are saying and controls themselves, and their statement is valid. 3. The moderate state: The angry person is aware of what they are saying but cannot control themselves, and there is a difference of opinion among scholars regarding the ruling of their statement.

It is advisable for the one taking an oath to make an exception by saying: "Insha'Allah (if Allah wills)" when swearing. If they then break the oath, no expiation is required, based on the saying of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: "Whoever takes an oath and says, 'Insha'Allah,' then there is no breaking of the oath upon him."