Kaffarah. How to Fulfill Expiation Correctly

Expiation fulfilled through feeding those in need.

What is Kaffarah?

Islam is a religion of accountability, mercy, and balance.
When certain religious obligations are knowingly broken, Allah does not close the door to repentance or correction. Instead, He prescribes Kaffarah โ€” a clear path to make amends through action.

Kaffarah is a mandatory expiation required in specific situations, such as intentionally breaking a fast during Ramadan or violating a sworn oath. It is not symbolic and cannot be fulfilled through intention alone. It must be completed exactly as prescribed.

The purpose of Kaffarah is twofold:
to restore balance in oneโ€™s worship, and to provide direct relief to those in need.

Rather than punishment, Kaffarah transforms accountability into compassion. A personal lapse becomes nourishment for others feeding the poor, easing hardship, and restoring dignity.

At UMMA, Kaffarah is treated with the seriousness it deserves.
Funds are allocated exclusively for food, kept separate from other donations, and used to prepare and distribute meals to eligible recipients. Each Kaffarah contribution fulfills a specific obligation and is carried out in accordance with Islamic guidance.

Our role is to ensure that Kaffarah is not approximated or redirected, but fulfilled precisely, responsibly, and with trust.

Our Kaffarah Process

Understanding when Kaffarah becomes mandatory

Kaffarah is required only in specific situations defined by Islamic law. We begin by ensuring the obligation applies correctly.
Applies to intentionally breaking a fast during Ramadan without valid excuse
Applies to violating a sworn oath
Clarifies cases where Kaffarah is required versus other forms of expiation

Zakat handled independently and with full amanah

Kaffarah must be fulfilled in the manner prescribed by Islam โ€” without substitution or approximation.
Fulfilled through feeding the poor and needy
Cannot be replaced with cash or redirected to other causes
Completed according to the correct number of meals required

Funds used exclusively for meals

Kaffarah contributions are strictly restricted to food preparation and distribution.
Funds ring-fenced from all other donations
Used solely for sourcing, preparing, and distributing meals
No administrative or non-food use applied to Kaffarah funds

Meals delivered to those entitled to receive them

Kaffarah reaches individuals who are genuinely in need and eligible.
Beneficiaries assessed and verified on the ground
Priority given to those facing food insecurity
Distribution conducted through trusted local partners

Your obligation fulfilled with trust and clarity

We ensure Kaffarah is completed fully, correctly, and with amanah.
Clear fulfillment of the prescribed expiation
Transparency in how meals are delivered
Peace of mind that your responsibility has been met

Our Impact on the ground

15+

Countries Reached

1M+

Meals Delivered

1K+

Medical Cases

200+

Homes Rebuilt