Dr.Muhammad Abid Noman
Islamic Academy, Plano

Introduction:

Promises or agreements are a fundamental aspect of human interaction, serving as the bedrock of trust and reliability in any society. In Islam, the significance of fulfilling promises is emphasized through the teachings found in the Quran and Sunnah.

This article explores the profound importance of keeping one’s word, as highlighted in Islamic principles.

Quranic Guidance on Promise Keeping:

The Quran, contains numerous verses stressing the importance of fulfilling promises. Allah, in His wisdom, recognizes the gravity of commitments and their impact on interpersonal relationships. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), the Quran states,

اِنَّ الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا وَ عَمِلُوا الصّٰلِحٰتِ وَ اَقَامُوا الصَّلٰوةَ وَ اٰتَوُا الزَّكٰوةَ لَهُمْ اَجْرُهُمْ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِمْۚ-وَ لَا خَوْفٌ عَلَیْهِمْ وَ لَا هُمْ یَحْزَنُوْنَ

“Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish prayer and give zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.” This verse emphasizes the connection between faith, good deeds, and keeping promises.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:34), Allah says:

وَ اَوْفُوْا بِالْعَهْدِۚ-اِنَّ الْعَهْدَ كَانَ مَسْـٴُـوْلًا 

“And fulfill every commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.”

This verse underscores the accountability associated with promises, reminding believers that they will be questioned about their commitments in the Hereafter.

Prophetic Guidance from Sunnah:

The Sunnah, comprising the actions, sayings, and approvals of Prophet
Muhammad صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم provides additional guidance on the importance of promise keeping. The Prophet is described as the embodiment of honesty and trustworthiness, earning him the title Al-Amin (the Trustworthy).

In one famous Hadith (narration), the Prophet Muhammad صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم is reported to have said:

‏‏‏‏‏‏عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، ‏‏‏‏‏‏عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ، ‏‏‏‏‏‏قَالَ:‏‏‏‏ “آيَةُ الْمُنَافِقِ ثَلَاثٌ، ‏‏‏‏‏‏إِذَا حَدَّثَ كَذَبَ، ‏‏‏‏‏‏وَإِذَا وَعَدَ أَخْلَفَ، ‏‏‏‏‏‏وَإِذَا اؤْتُمِنَ خَانَ”.

“The signs of a hypocrite are three: whenever he speaks, he tells a lie; and whenever he promises, he breaks his promise, and whenever he is entrusted, he betrays (proves to be dishonest).” (Sahih al-Bukhari:33)

This Hadith underscores the grave nature of breaking promises, associating it with hypocrisy, a characteristic vehemently condemned in Islam.

Consequences of Breaking Promises:

Islamic teachings warn against the consequences of breaking promises. the emphasized صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم Muhammad Prophet The detrimental effects of unfulfilled commitments on both individual and societal levels. In a Hadith reported by Abu Huraira, the Prophet said, “The signs of a hypocrite are three: Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie; and whenever he promises, he breaks his promise; and whenever he is entrusted, he betrays (proves to be dishonest).” (Sahih al-Bukhari:33)

Breaking promises erodes trust and undermines the foundations of a healthy and functional society. In Islam, trust is a sacred bond that facilitates cooperation and mutual respect among individuals.

Rewards for Keeping Promises:

On the flip side, Islam promises immense rewards for those who fulfill their commitments. In a Hadith narrated by Abdullah ibn Amr, the Prophet Muhammad صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم said: 

من لم یخالف الوعد ولم یکذب، فسیرضی اللہ عنہ اذا لقیہ

“Whoever does not break his promise or does not lie, Allah will be pleased with him when he meets Him.”

(Jami` at-Tirmidhi;1260)

This Hadith highlights the divine satisfaction that accompanies a person who remains true to their word. It reinforces the idea that promise keeping is not just a social virtue but also a means to earn Allah’s pleasure.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the importance of fulfilling promises and agreements in Islam is deeply rooted in the Quranic verses and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم. Adhering to one’s commitments is not merely a social norm but a moral obligation with far-reaching consequences. The Quran and Sunnah provide a comprehensive guide for believers, emphasizing the significance of honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity in personal and communal relationships. By honoring promises, individuals contribute to the creation of a just and harmonious society, guided by the principles of Islam.