Oath (Yamīn) in Islam
Introduction
In Islam, an oath, known as “Yamīn” (يمين) in Arabic, is a binding declaration or promise invoking the name of Almighty God. Oaths hold significant spiritual and social weight, constituting moral and legal obligations for Muslims.
Etymology
- Arabic: Yamīn (يمين)
- Plural Forms: Yamināt (يمنات) or Aimān (أيمان)
- Turkish: Yemin
Qur’anic References
The concept of oaths is addressed in several Qur’anic verses which highlight their significance and the consequences of breaking them:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:225): “God will not punish you for an inconsiderate word in your oaths, but He will punish you for that which your hearts have assented to.”
- Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:91): “God will not punish you for an inconsiderate word in your oaths, but He will punish you in regard to an oath taken seriously. Its expiation shall be to feed ten poor persons with such moderate food as you feed your own families with, or to clothe them; or to set free a captive. But he who cannot find means shall fast three days.”
- Surah An-Nahl (16:96): “Take not your oaths between you deceitfully.”
Prophetic Traditions
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provided various guidelines on the matter of oaths, emphasizing truth and sincerity:
- “Whoever swears to a thing and says, ‘If it please God,’ and acts contrary to his oath, it is no sin.”
- “Swear not by idols or by your own fathers.”
- “Swear not by God except it be to the truth.”
- “Whoever swears by the prayers or by the fast, or by the pilgrimage, is not a Muslim.”
Types of Oaths
Islamic jurisprudence classifies oaths into several categories:
- Al-Yamīnu l-Ghamūs (اليمين الغموس): An oath taken concerning a past event, known to be false, causing significant sin.
- Al-Yamīnu l-Mun’aqid (اليمين المنعقد): An oath about a future action, requiring expiation if not fulfilled.
- Yamīnu l-Laghu (يمين اللغو): An unintentional oath about a past event, believed to be true by the swearer.
Expiation (Kaffārah) for Broken Oaths
Expiation for breaking an oath, especially for Al-Yamīnu l-Mun’aqid, includes:
- Feeding or clothing ten poor people
- Releasing a Muslim captive
- If unable, fasting for three days
Theological and Legal Perspectives
- Muḥammadan Law: Provides an extended framework based on Prophetic traditions to ensure the ethical bearing of oaths.
- Hidāyah: Establishes that an oath is valid only with the invocation of God’s name, not by any other entity or object.
Cultural Practices
Oaths are prevalent in daily interactions within Muslim communities, often taken seriously due to the religious and moral implications.
Further Studies
For an in-depth understanding of oaths in Islam, consider these texts:
- Hamilton’s Hidāyah
- Durru l-Mukhtār
- Raddu l-Muḥtār
- Fatāwā-i-ʿĀlamgīrī
Conclusion
In Islam, oaths (Yamīn) represent a profound commitment to truth and moral integrity. Adhering to the correct use and understanding of oaths is essential for maintaining spiritual accountability and social harmony.
Takeaways
- Oaths are a serious matter in Islam, intricately tied to one’s moral and spiritual duties.
- Breaking an oath necessitates specific forms of expiation.
- Understanding the types and proper usage of oaths can help Muslims navigate their ethical and legal obligations.
By understanding the religious context and guidelines for oaths, Muslims can better align their actions with their faith and ethical standards.
