Correct Formula for a Vow

Question

What is the correct formula for making a vow? [AR_ID:2769]

Answer 1

Peace be upon you.

Ayatollah al-Uzma Sayyid Sistani (may Allah protect him):

The formula for a vow must include the phrase (for Allah) or something similar, such as saying: (For Allah, I will perform the night prayer) or (For the Most Merciful, I will refrain from harming the believers). It is permissible to express this meaning in any other language besides Arabic, even for those who are proficient in it. If one only says (I will do such and such), the vow is not valid, even if they intend the meaning of (for Allah) in their heart. If they say: (I vowed to Allah to fast) or (I have a vow to fast for Allah), there is ambiguity regarding its validity, so it is advisable to adhere to the requirements of caution in this matter.

Source: Minhaj al-Salihin, Vol. 3, Issue 704.

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Ayatollah al-Uzma Sayyid Khamenei (may Allah protect him):

The formula is what indicates the obligation of an action or abstention upon the individual for the sake of Allah, such as saying: "For Allah, I will fast for a day," or "For Allah, I will refrain from smoking."

A vow is only valid if it is made for Allah and not for anyone else. Anything that is recognized as being for Allah is valid as a vow.

If the person making the vow includes the word "vow" in their statement, such as saying "I vowed to Allah to fast" or "I have a vow to Allah to fast for a day," there are two scenarios:

- First: If they are aware that it is not permissible to add this word in the formula and still include it, then they are not obligated to fulfill the vow, although it is recommended to do so.

- Second: If they are not aware of this, it is considered a valid vow, and they must fulfill it.

Source: Fiqh al-Wali, Rulings on Vows.

May you be successful in all good.