The Book of Oaths and Vows - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3791

"The Messenger of Allah said to me: 'If you swear an oath, then you see something that is better, do that which is better, and offer expiation for your oath.'"

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence regarding oaths and vows. The Prophet's instruction demonstrates the flexibility and mercy inherent in Islamic law.

When a Muslim takes an oath to perform or abstain from something, but subsequently realizes that fulfilling this oath would lead to a lesser good or even harm, the Shari'ah permits breaking such an oath. The superior alternative should be chosen instead.

The expiation (kaffārah) mentioned refers to the specific atonement prescribed for broken oaths, which is feeding ten needy persons, clothing them, or freeing a slave. If one cannot perform these, then fasting three days serves as expiation.

This ruling reflects the wisdom that Allah's law prioritizes benefit and prevents harm. It prevents Muslims from being trapped by their oaths when better alternatives emerge, while maintaining the sanctity of oaths through required expiation.

Juridical Principles Derived

The pursuit of greater benefit (maslahah) takes precedence over rigid adherence to oaths.

Breaking an oath for a superior alternative is not considered sinful when accompanied by proper expiation.

Islamic law accommodates changing circumstances and new insights that reveal better courses of action.