Allah orders us to be faithful to our pledges and covenants and to fulfill our oaths: “And be true to your bond with Allah whenever you bind yourselves by a pledge, and do not break [your] oaths after having [freely] confirmed them and having called upon Allah to be witness to your good faith: behold, God knows all that you do.” (An-Nahl 16:91)

 

As for the atonement for breach of oaths, they are as follows: 1) To feed ten poor people; 2. To clothe them; 3. To free a believing slave from bondage; 4 Fast three days. The third option is not applicable now.

 

So, we are left to choose between the three: As for feeding, it is sufficient to provide them with ten meals, or its equivalent in cash. If he is unable to feed, he should provide them with clothes. If he cannot do that either, he is left with the only option of fasting three days.

 

As for the difference between Wa’d and Qasam, the latter is a sworn promise, while the former is not. However, in case of doubt, you should expiate for the violation by feeding ten poor persons or fasting for three days.

 

Allah Almighty knows best.