Question: Among the members of a tribe there may be something they call “al-ṣuḥb” in our land. It consists of obligations and covenants among them to support one another and cooperate, with their persons and their wealth, regarding whatever calamities may occur. What is the ruling on that?
Answer – and Allah is the One who grants success – is that al-ṣuḥb, and the obligations and covenants among the members of a tribe, are something good which must be fulfilled, except for whatever involves sin or aggression; such must not be fulfilled, for the covenant with Allah has a greater right to be fulfilled.
And Allah, Exalted is He, has made it obligatory upon those who are legally accountable to fulfill covenants and contracts. He, Most High, said: “And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.” [al-Isrā’:34] and: “O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts.” [al-Mā’idah:1] and: “But yes, whoever fulfills his commitment and fears Allah – then indeed, Allah loves those who fear Him.” [Āl ʿImrān:76]. The verses in this regard are many. And in the well-known hadith, breaking one’s promise is among the characteristics of the hypocrites. And Allah, Exalted is He, praised Ismaʿil (Peace be Upon Him), saying: “And mention in the Book, Ishmael. Indeed, he was true to his promise, and he was a messenger and a prophet.” [Maryam:54].
Source: Min Thimār al-ʿIlm wa al-Ḥikmah vol.2