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

Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 3830

Textual Analysis

The hadith states: "Whoever swears an oath and says, 'If Allah wills,' then he has the choice: If he wishes, he may go ahead, and if he wishes he may not."

This narration establishes that attaching the phrase "In sha' Allah" (If Allah wills) to an oath creates a condition that nullifies the binding nature of the oath, giving the swearer flexibility in its fulfillment.

Juridical Commentary

The scholars of jurisprudence explain that an oath normally creates a religious obligation upon the Muslim. However, when coupled with "In sha' Allah," it becomes conditional upon Divine Will.

This condition acknowledges human limitation in knowledge of future events and submits all matters to Allah's decree. The swearer thus avoids potentially breaking an oath due to unforeseen circumstances.

The choice mentioned refers to whether to proceed with the action sworn about or to abstain, without incurring the expiation normally required for broken oaths.

Spiritual Significance

This teaching instills the principle of tawakkul (reliance on Allah) in daily affairs. It reminds believers that all outcomes are ultimately in Allah's hands.

The practice demonstrates proper Islamic etiquette in speech, where Muslims should always acknowledge Allah's supreme will when speaking about future intentions.

This prophetic guidance protects believers from the spiritual consequences of unintended oath-breaking while maintaining the sanctity of oaths in Islamic law.