Is it permissible to make a vow to abstain from a specific sin, with an expiation (such as fasting or charity) attached to returning to that sin, given one's ability to commit or abandon this sin?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Undertaking a vow () is reprehensible (makrooh). What is mentioned in the question is called a "nadhr of contention" (nadhr al-lajaj). The preponderant opinion regarding it is that the one who makes the vow is obligated to offer an expiation for an oath (kaffarat ). One should strive against their soul and distance themselves from sins, and not resort to such a vow.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/73523
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 73523
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy