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How does Islam encourage the care of orphans if formal adoption is different?

OpenAI's Answer

Islam places a strong emphasis on the care and protection of orphans, viewing it as a significant moral and social responsibility. Although formal adoption, as understood in some cultures where the child takes the adoptive family's name and inheritance rights, is not practiced in Islam, the religion provides clear guidance on how orphans should be cared for:

  1. Guardianship (Kafala): Instead of formal adoption, Islam encourages a system known as Kafala, where a family takes on the responsibility of caring for an orphan without changing the child's family name or legal inheritance rights. This ensures the child's identity and lineage are preserved, which is important in Islamic law.

  2. Emphasis in the Quran and Hadith: The Quran frequently emphasizes the importance of caring for orphans. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:220), it advises believers to treat orphans with kindness and justice. The Prophet Muhammad also highlighted the significance of caring for orphans, stating that those who support orphans will be close to him in Paradise.

  3. Financial Support and Protection: Islam instructs guardians to manage the property and wealth of orphans responsibly and to protect their rights until they reach maturity. Misusing an orphan's property is considered a grave sin.

  4. Community Responsibility: The broader Muslim community is encouraged to support orphans through charity (sadaqah) and zakat (obligatory almsgiving), ensuring that orphans receive the care and resources they need.

  5. Emotional and Social Support: Beyond financial care, Islam stresses the importance of providing emotional and social support to orphans, ensuring they feel loved and integrated into the community.

By following these principles, Islam seeks to ensure that orphans are cared for in a way that respects their rights and dignity, while also fostering a compassionate and supportive community.

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