What are the conditions for a covenant to be binding?

The general principle regarding covenants is that they are binding and obligatory, as long as they do not contravene Islamic law and the covenanter is able to fulfill their covenant. This is based on the Almighty's saying: "O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts," and His saying: "And fulfill [every] covenant. Indeed, every covenant will be questioned about." And among the characteristics of the pious is: "and those who fulfill their covenant when they make one." The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, condemned betrayal of covenants, saying: "There are four characteristics, whoever possesses them will be a pure hypocrite... and when he makes a covenant, he betrays it." He also said: "Muslims are bound by their conditions."

Jurists have categorized contracts into binding and permissible. A binding contract is one where neither party has the right to unilaterally revoke it without the other's consent. A permissible contract is one where either party has the right to revoke it. It is not possible to issue a general ruling on all covenants or contracts; rather, it is necessary to examine the type of covenant to determine its ruling.