Ruling on the Phrase "Teri Zimmedari" (Your Responsibility)

Authored by: Allama Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman Al-Jibreen (رحمه الله)

Question:​

What is the ruling on the use of the phrase “Tere Zimmedari” (Your Responsibility) or “Meri Zimmedari” (My Responsibility)? Does it have any impact on one's belief?

Answer:​

The term "Zimmedari" (responsibility) linguistically refers to a commitment or covenant (‘ahd wa paiman’). Allah Almighty commands the fulfillment of covenants and agreements, as seen in multiple verses of the Quran:

1. Fulfillment of Allah’s Covenant:
   
   “And fulfill the covenant of Allah when you have taken it.”
   [Surah An-Nahl: 91]
   “And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.”
   [Surah Al-Isra: 34]
   These commands emphasize the obligation to honor all forms of covenants, including those made with Allah and others.

Use of "Zimmedari" in Common Speech​

1. For Allah’s Covenant:
   If one says, “This is Allah’s covenant for you,” it implies a significant and binding responsibility, which must be fulfilled. Breaking such a covenant is a grave sin.
2. For Personal Commitment:
   Similarly, if one says, “This is my commitment to you,” it is included under the general obligation of fulfilling agreements and is binding.

Impact on Belief​

The misuse of this term, particularly if it involves lying, falls under the category of deceit, which is a characteristic of hypocrisy. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Four traits, whoever possesses them, is a pure hypocrite: when he speaks, he lies; when he makes a covenant, he betrays it…”
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 34; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 59]
Further, regarding betrayal of covenants, the Prophet (ﷺ) warned:

“A banner will be raised for every betrayer on the Day of Resurrection, and it will be said: This is the betrayal of so-and-so.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3015; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 735]
Thus, breaking a covenant—especially when made in Allah’s name—is a major sin and has severe consequences.

When Phrased as an Oath​

In common language, when people use the phrase “Fi Zimmeti” (It is my responsibility), it often implies an oath or an emphatic declaration. In this context:

• If the statement is truthful, there is no issue.
• If it is false, it constitutes lying or covenant-breaking, which is strictly condemned.

The Prophet (ﷺ) also said:

“Whoever offers the Fajr prayer in congregation is under Allah’s protection.”
[Sahih Muslim, Hadith 657]
This illustrates that being in Allah’s Zimmah (protection) requires adherence to truth and commitment.

Conclusion​

The phrase “Teri Zimmedari” or “Meri Zimmedari” is permissible when used truthfully. However:

• Misusing it to lie or deceive is prohibited.
• If the phrase is used to swear or take an oath, breaking it constitutes a sin akin to covenant-breaking.
• When the term is associated with Allah, it carries even greater responsibility and significance.

Proper understanding and usage are essential to ensure that one remains truthful and avoids actions that lead to hypocrisy or betrayal.

And Allah knows best.