The Book of Oaths and Vows - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3781

"Whoever swears an oath, then sees something better than it, let him do that which is better."

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence regarding oaths. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) teaches us that if a person takes an oath to do or refrain from something, but subsequently realizes there is a better course of action, they should abandon their oath in favor of the superior alternative.

Scholars explain that this demonstrates the flexibility and mercy of Islamic law, prioritizing benefit and righteousness over rigid adherence to oaths. The "better" action refers to that which brings greater obedience to Allah, benefits others more, or avoids greater harm.

The expiation (kaffarah) for breaking such an oath is required, as mentioned in Quran 5:89, which typically involves feeding ten needy persons, clothing them, or freeing a slave. This ruling prevents people from being trapped by their oaths when better options emerge, while maintaining respect for the sanctity of vows.

Juridical Application

This principle applies when the alternative action is objectively better in religious terms - such as choosing to maintain family ties over an oath to sever them, or performing a greater act of worship over a lesser one vowed.

It does not permit breaking oaths for mere personal preference or worldly benefit unless there is clear religious superiority. The determination of what constitutes "better" should be based on Islamic evidence and scholarly understanding.