Paying money as Kaffarah

Q: A discussion took place about the forms of Kaffarah (expiation), such as those for breaking oaths, Fidyah (ransom) of breaking fast for the old people or any Kaffarah, which is paid in the form of foodstuffs. They claim that people no longer accept grains or with greater reason cooked food, and ask if it is permissible to pay the Kaffarah in cash. Please, advise. May Allah reward you with the best and protect you against any harm!

A: It is not permissible to pay the Kaffarah in cash, whether it is paid for breaking an oath, Fidyah of breaking fast for the old people, Hady (sacrificial animal offered by pilgrims) or Fidyah of having an ailment of the head during Hajj or `Umrah according to the soundest opinion of scholars. Kaffarah is given out of the things that the Shari`ah (Islamic law) specified to the person who is entitled to it. It is not conceivable that all people no longer accept anything but money. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.