The Concept Of Kaffara
Just the way Allah has imposed physical punishment for certain sins committed by Muslims, like for theft, for adultery etc. similarly, He has imposed punishment for disobedience related to some matters for which physical punishment was not possible or not appropriate like for breaking of oath, reverting back from Zihar and unintentional murder. This latter form of punishment is called Kaffara. Both of these kinds of punishments ( physical punishment and Kaffara ) are subject to their own conditions, but both serve as a precursor to forgiveness as Quran mentions the punishment/kaffara first and repentance/forgiveness later ( See Quran 5:38-39, 24:4-5, 4:92 ) Following discussion is also insightful. Please refer to the video below from 1:32 to 9:25 https://youtu.be/6GH2nVv_yIA?si=sQowrBxIK8iMoK4h&t=92