Definition and Importance:
Kaffara is an act of expiation or atonement required in Islam to compensate for specific religious violations, such as breaking a fast during Ramadan, breaking an oath, or accidentally harming someone. It serves as a means of making amends and seeking forgiveness from Allah for unintentional or unavoidable shortcomings in fulfilling religious duties.
Forms of Kaffara:
The form of Kaffara varies depending on the offense. For example, if someone intentionally breaks their fast during Ramadan without a valid reason, the Kaffara might involve fasting for 60 consecutive days, feeding 60 needy people, or giving a significant amount of charity. Similarly, for breaking an oath, one must either feed or clothe ten poor people, free a slave (in the historical context), or fast for three days if the other options are not feasible.
Quranic Guidance:
Kaffara is supported by various references in the Quran, such as in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:89), where Allah outlines the expiation for broken oaths: “Allah will not call you to account for thoughtlessness in your oaths, but for the intention in your hearts; and He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing. For those who violate their oath, the penalty is the feeding of ten poor persons, on a scale of the average for the food of your families; or clothing them; or the freeing of a slave.”
Spiritual Significance:
Kaffara emphasizes accountability, reminding Muslims of the importance of fulfilling religious obligations and the mercy of Allah in offering a means of redemption. It underscores the value of sincerity, repentance, and the need to rectify mistakes by helping those in need, thus fostering both spiritual and social responsibility.
