Adopting Orphans: A Noble Endeavor By Grandma Jeddah (part 2)

Adopting Orphans: A Noble Endeavor

By

Grandma Jeddah

(part 2)

Allah also says in Quran, “Therefore, treat not the orphan with harshness.” (Quran 94: 9)

He commands us to: “Worship none but Allah (Alone) and be dutiful and good to parents, and to kindred, and to orphans . . .”

These verses from Quran present clear evidence that orphans should be treated honorably and respectably.

Adoption, in both Islam and the West, involves raising and maintaining a child which is not the caregiver’s offspring. However, Islam provides additional stipulations, unlike the West, that provide added protection for the adopted child. One requirement of adoption in Islam is that the child should be made aware that the adoptive parents are not his biological parents. Another is that the orphan retains the name of his parent(s).

Allah says in Quran about adopted children: “. . . Nor has He made your adopted sons your real sons. That is but a saying with your mouths. But Allah says the truth and he guides to the right way.”  (Quran33:4)

“ .  . . Call them by the names of their fathers, that is more just in the sight of Allah, but if you do not know their father’s names, (then they are) your brothers in faith, or your wards. But there is no blame on you if you make a mistake there in: What counts is the intention of your hearts. (Quran 33:5)


(to be continued, insha'Allah)

Grandma Jeddah is the mother of 11 children and 16 grandchildren. She has taught hundreds of students for over 30 years at an Islamic school in Los Angeles, California. She has written dozens of articles for Muslim magazines, newspapers and blogs.  She is the author of, Discipline without Disrespecting: Discover the Hidden Secrets of How to Effectively Discipline Your Muslim Child--And Keep Your Peace of Mind while at It.  Order her e-books at:  http://www.grandmajeddah.com/