What should I do about a vow to read the entire Holy Qur’an for success in exams, when the specified time for it has passed without fulfilling it for no legitimate excuse? Should it be fulfilled after its time has ended or promptly, or can it be postponed for a period of two months, or can a small portion of it be read during the exam period?

A vow is not binding unless it is made with a verbal صيغة (formulation) by the one making the vow, indicating commitment, such as: (It is upon me for the sake of Allah to complete reading the Qur’an). Fulfillment is not obligatory unless the vow is binding.

A vow that is not time-bound may be fulfilled at a later time. However, a vow that is time-bound to a specific period must not be delayed without a valid excuse. Whoever delays it has sinned and must hasten to fulfill it. It is more cautious to offer an expiation for an oath (kaffarat yamin) along with fulfilling the vow, to avoid the disagreement of those who consider it obligatory.