❖ The Meaning and Essence of Nadr (Vow)
The word "Nadr" literally means to obligate or impose something. In Islamic terminology, it refers to voluntarily binding oneself to perform an act that is not inherently obligatory in Shariah. For instance, if a person promises to fast for three days if a certain wish is fulfilled, this becomes a vow, provided that fasting was not already obligatory on them.However, performing obligatory acts such as the five daily prayers or fasting in Ramadan is not considered a vow if one merely affirms their obligation, because those are already compulsory by default. A vow, therefore, involves an extra act of devotion offered voluntarily for the sake of Allah.
❖ Vows and Offerings Are Solely for Allah
Acts of devotion such as sacrifices and vows are exclusively reserved for Allah. When someone dedicates these acts to anyone other than Allah—be it a prophet, saint, or any revered figure—they engage in an act of shirk. This is because a vow is a form of worship, and worship is not permissible for any being other than Allah.Those who give offerings and fulfill vows in the name of others besides Allah are not only misguided but also unjust, and such acts sever them from divine support and mercy.
The proper attitude of a believer is to declare that all aspects of life—including prayer, sacrifice, living, and dying—are devoted purely to Allah alone.
❖ The Invalidity of Vows for the Dead
Offering vows to deceased saints, imams, or prophets in hope of blessings, intercession, or divine favor is impermissible in Islam. Even if one claims that the actual worship is meant for Allah while using the deceased as a means, it remains an impermissible innovation and a pathway to shirk.Many people mistakenly offer food, money, candles, oil, or other materials at gravesites believing such deeds bring them closer to Allah. However, these offerings are classified as invalid because:
- Vows are a form of worship, and worship is only for Allah.
- The deceased cannot possess or accept anything.
- Believing that the dead can influence worldly affairs independently of Allah is a form of disbelief.
❖ Common Misconceptions Among the Masses
A widely held but incorrect belief is that giving charity, food, or lighting candles at shrines is a noble deed that draws one nearer to Allah through the mediation of saints. In reality, this belief undermines the concept of tawheed (pure monotheism), because it attributes divine qualities—such as hearing prayers or granting wishes—to the creation instead of the Creator.If a person believes that a deceased individual can accept vows or offerings and influence outcomes, they contradict the core teachings of Islam regarding Allah’s exclusive authority and dominion.
❖ The Clear Command: Vows Must Be to Allah Alone
The Quran repeatedly emphasizes that all acts of worship and obedience—including vows and sacrifices—must be directed to Allah alone. Offering anything, even a small gift or donation, in the name of anyone else is a grave error and a pathway to shirk.Muslims are therefore commanded to avoid these practices and to redirect their devotion solely to Allah. Not even the best of creation—be it prophets or saints—are to be recipients of acts of worship.
