Does buying and distributing an izar (waistcloth) to construction workers count as expiation for an oath, and are these workers considered among the needy (masakin)? And how much should I expiate if I am unsure of the number of expiations due for oaths?

Clothing is one of the types of expiation for an oath, where one is given a choice by Islamic law. What is considered valid clothing by many scholars is a garment suitable for prayer for a man, and a chemise and headscarf for a woman.

The Shafi’is said that an izar (loincloth/wrapper) is sufficient for clothing. The Malikis considered an izar that can be worn for prayer to be equivalent to a garment.

Therefore, distributing these izars to workers is sufficient for expiation according to many scholars if they are among those who are eligible (the poor and the needy). However, if they are not in need, paying expiation to them is not permissible in the first place.

As for being unaware of the number of oaths, one should expiate for what is most likely to clear one's conscience.