Nadhr (Vows)

Q. How is it to make a vow that if one succeeds he will offer such and such a thing?

A. It is allowed and after making the vow, it is waajib to fulfill it.

Q. Is it waajib to fulfill every vow?

A. A vow which does not go against the Shari’ah and is according to the conditions laid down by Shari’ah should be fulfilled and this is waajib. One must not fulfill a vow which goes against the Shari’ah.

Q. What are the conditions for a valid vow?

A. A vow should be a form of worship — such as vowing to Allah to pray two rak’aat, to fast, to feed poor people, or to give sadaqah of a certain amount. The vow must not be beyond one’s power; otherwise, it is invalid — for example, vowing to donate someone else’s belongings is not valid. There are many more conditions explained in larger books.

Q. How is it to make a vow in the name of a spiritual father or a waliy?

A. A vow made in any name other than Allah is haraam. Nadhr is worship and worship is only for Allah.