21- BREAKING ONE'S PROMISE ( G A D R )

One of the things that causes anger is to break one's promise or word (Gadr). When a person promises something, it is called a promise (Va'd). If the promise is carried out by two persons mutually, it is called "Ahd". A promise (Va'd) which is strengthened by oath is called "Misak". When one of those who mutually promised something, e.g., made an agreement (Ahd), breaks the promise or agreement without informing the other party, he would be committing "Gadr". For example, if the leader of a state of a country perceives or understands that he has to break the peace agreement with a "disbelieving" neighboring country, it is necessary (Wajib) for him to inform them. It is not permissible (Jaiz) to break the peace agreement without informing them first. In one hadith, Rasulullah, peace be upon him, said, "He who makes "Gadr" will pay for it severely during the Judgement day (Qiyamat)." Making "Gadr" is forbidden. Keeping the agreement (Ahd) performed with disbelievers is necessary.

In one hadith, Rasulullah, peace be upon him, said, "An untrustworthy person does not possess belief. A person who breaks his agreement 'Ahd' does not possess religion." This hadith points out that those who break their promises do not have mature belief and those who do not pay attention to these will lose their belief.