Is it permissible to fast a votive fast after 12 years have passed without fulfilling it, or is expiation obligatory?

This type of vow, known as a conditional vow, is disliked but must be fulfilled if the condition upon which it was made occurs, such as the woman giving birth safely. This is based on Allah's saying: "And let them fulfill their vows," and the Prophet's (PBUH) saying: "Whoever vows to obey Allah, let him obey Him."

Therefore, the woman must fast the months she vowed, and it is not permissible to abandon the fasting as long as she is able to do so. If she intended to fast at a specific time and delayed it, she should refer to Fatwa No. 44331. However, if the vow was absolute without specifying a time, she is not sinful for delaying, but she should hasten to fulfill it.

If she is unable to fast, and the inability is temporary, she should wait until it passes and then fast. If the inability is permanent, she must pay an expiation for breaking an oath and feed one poor person for each day.