Swearing by anyone other than God isn’t just a habit — Islamic teachings call it forbidden. Here’s the clear ruling and what to do next.
Swearing by anyone other than God is forbidden in Islam. This prohibition covers taking an oath by any being or thing other than God — including imams, prophets, saints, ancestors, oneself, or anything else.
The Prophet of Islam said: “Beware — God has forbidden you from swearing by your fathers. Whoever wants to swear should swear by God or remain silent.”
Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
Associating others with God (shirk) | Swearing by another being is considered a form of shirk because it places someone or something in a position reserved for God. |
Diminishing the greatness of God | Using others as the object of an oath reduces the exclusive dignity and status of God. |
Disrespect to sacred figures | Swearing by prophets or imams can be seen as a form of disrespect toward their high status. |
Consequence | Explanation |
|---|---|
A major sin (guilt) | The act is counted among major sins and brings serious spiritual consequences in this world and the hereafter. |
Oath is invalid | Even if a person acts according to an oath sworn by someone other than God, that oath is considered void. |
Step | What to do |
|---|---|
Repentance and seeking forgiveness | The person who swore by someone other than God should repent to God and ask for His pardon. |
Avoid repeating | One must refrain from repeating this improper practice and should make a habit of swearing only by God. |
Some people may swear by others out of habit or ignorance of the ruling. With proper awareness of the religious ruling, they should stop this practice and turn to God.
Swearing by saints, prophets, or other people is forbidden in Islam; the correct course is repentance and avoiding repetition once one learns the ruling.
Practical Tips
Tip | |
|---|---|
Repent promptly | “The person who swore by someone other than God should repent to God and ask for His pardon.” |
Stop the habit | “One must refrain from repeating this improper practice…” |
Swear only by God or remain silent | “Whoever wants to swear should swear by God or remain silent.” |
Learn the ruling if unsure | “Some people may... out of habit or ignorance… with proper awareness… they should stop.” |
