Pay Kaffarah (expiation) for an oath

Q: I vowed not to disobey Allah, but sometimes I sin unintentionally; what must I do? Please tell me whether I have to observe any Sawm (Fast)?

A: It is Wajib (obligatory) on every Muslim to avoid sinning even if there is no vow involved. However, shunning of sins becomes even a greater obligation when a person vows to do so. Moreover, indulging in a sin after taking such a vow makes it Wajib on the person to hasten (Part No. 23; Page No. 205) his Tawbah (repentance to Allah). Taking a vow is similar to taking an oath, and the person in question must also offer a Kaffarah (expiation) for his oath. This Kaffarah is to free a believing bondsman, or to feed ten needy people, or to clothe them, or in case of the inability to offer any of these options, one is to observe Sawm for three days.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.