What is the difference between a promise (waʿd) and a covenant (ʿahd), and is it true that fulfilling a promise is only commendable (mustahabb) and not obligatory (wājib), and does the same ruling apply to a covenant?
The Arabic word 'ahd' (covenant/pledge) originally means to preserve and take care of something. It then came to be used for a solemn promise that must be observed. As for 'wad' (promise), it is an announcement by a person of an action they will perform in the future that relates to another. The difference between them is that a 'ahd' is a 'wad' that is coupled with a condition. It is obligatory to fulfill a 'ahd' because it is based on commitment. This can be with Allah, such as a vow (), or with people, such as contracts. Allah Almighty says: (O YOU WHO HAVE BELIEVED, FULFILL [YOUR] CONTRACTS). Sometimes, 'ahd' is used in the meaning of 'wad', in which case it carries the same ruling.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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