Judicial principles and studies
Rent Amendment and the Decisive Oath as Proof of Payment of a Fixed Debt
The study examines how the decisive oath operates in cases of rent amendment and proving payment of a debt established by written evidence, and its probative strength relative to written proof.
Updated: 10 September 2026
Prepared and reviewed by: Ashraf Al-Khawaja
Subject
The points consider the use of the decisive oath in matters of amended rent stated in a written lease, noting the prohibition on altering contract terms by mere personal testimony under Article (29) of the Evidence Law and its limits.
Summary
- The ban on modifying lease terms by personal testimony does not apply to the decisive oath; the oath carries probative weight comparable to written testimony. - Where the tenant does not deny the contract's stated annual rent but alleges the rent was amended, it is permissible to direct a decisive oath concerning that amendment. - Case practice accepts directing a decisive oath to prove payment of a debt established by written evidence, since the oath appeals to the opponent's conscience and can decisively resolve the disputed fact. - The fact of an annual rent amendment is considered effective from the amendment date as reflected in the oath sworn by the defendant; disregarding and excluding that fact was contrary to law according to the provided points. Note: This is an educational summary and not judicial text or legal advice.
Practical significance
This is a general educational summary based on the points published in the official source. It does not replace the original material or a review by Ashraf Al-Khawaja before relying on it for any action.
Sources and references
Verify the official text and latest amendments before relying on this material professionally.