The Importance of Keeping Promises
In life, we often make promises—whether to ourselves, our loved ones, or even to Allah. A promise is a commitment, a word given in trust. However, as circumstances change, we sometimes find it difficult to keep our promises. Nothing in this world is permanent, and unexpected situations may force us to take an opposite decision. Yet, breaking a promise can lead to guilt, disappointment, and even a loss of trust.
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Why Do We Struggle to Keep Promises?
Life is unpredictable. What seemed possible at one moment may become difficult later. For example, someone may promise to always be there for a friend, but circumstances like distance or personal struggles may prevent them from fulfilling that promise. Similarly, a person may vow to avoid a bad habit but later fall back into it.
The reality is that human beings are weak, and our emotions, circumstances, and priorities shift over time. However, this does not mean that promises should be taken lightly. A broken promise can hurt others and damage relationships. More importantly, in Islam, keeping promises is a moral and religious obligation.
What Does Islam Say About Keeping Promises?
In Islam, fulfilling promises is a sign of true faith and righteousness. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of being truthful and trustworthy in our commitments.
Promises and agreements are serious matters, and we will be held accountable for them. Breaking a promise is not only a betrayal of trust but also a sin.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also warned against breaking promises. He said:
"There are three signs of a hypocrite: when he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted, he betrays the trust."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 33; Sahih Muslim, 59)
This hadith shows that breaking promises is a serious offense that reflects a lack of sincerity and integrity.
(but for this offense, not all the person take revenge because good human being never take revenge. It is not as they are weak, it is for their good human characteristics which they have learned from family or well-wisher).
Punishment for Breaking a Promise in Islam
Islam warns of severe consequences for those who break promises without a valid reason. Some of the punishments mentioned in Islamic teachings include:
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Loss of Trust and Respect – A person who frequently breaks promises loses the respect and trust of others. This can lead to damaged relationships and a bad reputation in society.
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Hypocrisy in the Sight of Allah – As mentioned in the hadith, breaking promises is a sign of hypocrisy. If a person continuously engages in this habit, they may be categorized among the hypocrites in the Hereafter.
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Accountability on the Day of Judgment – Allah will hold people accountable for their broken promises. If someone has caused harm by breaking a promise, they will have to answer for it.
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Worldly Consequences – Sometimes, the punishment for breaking a promise comes in this life itself. People who deceive others may face loss, betrayal, or hardships as a result of their actions.
Promises are not just words; they hold weight in both personal relationships and in the eyes of Allah. While circumstances may change, we should always strive to be people of our word. If we make a promise, we must do our best to fulfill it. And if we cannot, we should take responsibility, seek forgiveness, and learn from our mistakes.
May Allah guide us all to be truthful and trustworthy in our words and actions. Ameen.