Vowing to hold a celebration if Allah grants him a son

Q: I would like to tell you that I made a vow to hold a celebration if Allah blessed me with a son. This celebration would be a party that includes slaughtering sacrificial animals and music, such as is held for marriage parties. Should I fulfill my vow or not?

A: Your vow consists of two parts, the first is a vow of obedience, if you intended by slaughtering sacrificial animals and giving their meat as charity to draw closer to Allah. The second is a vow of disobedience, as you vowed to hold a party that offers music, fun and entertainment. It is, therefore, obligatory on you to fulfill the vow of (Part No. 23; Page No. 321) obedience by slaughtering the sacrificial animals that you intended to slaughter. As for the vow of disobedience, it is not permissible for you to fulfill it. You have to offer instead of it the Kaffarah (expiation) for breaking an oath by feeding ten Miskin (needy people) or clothing them, or freeing a believing slave. If you cannot do this, you have to observe Sawm (Fasting) for three days.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.