It is incumbent upon whoever has been entrusted with their property to administer it in the way that brings them the greatest benefit. Allah, Exalted is He, says: “Do not approach the orphan’s wealth except in the manner that is best” (Q 6:152)—meaning: handle an orphan’s assets only in ways that secure their welfare and growth. Although the verse explicitly addresses an orphan’s property, its ruling extends by analogy to the estate of the prodigal.

The guardian of the orphan’s wealth, and of anyone in a similar situation, must protect it, avoid neglect or reckless ventures, and never consume it wrongfully. Allah, Mighty and Majestic, warns: “Those who consume the wealth of orphans unjustly are only filling their bellies with fire, and they will burn in a blazing blaze” (Q 4:10).

Allah further admonishes the guardians of orphans to imagine how they would feel about their own children if they were left in the care of others; just as they would wish kindness shown to their offspring, let them show kindness to the orphans under their charge. He says: “Let those who would dread leaving behind weak offspring fear Allah and speak words that are fitting” (Q 4:9).

Since such dependents cannot safeguard or manage their wealth so as to increase it, Allah has appointed guardians to act on their behalf and look after their interests. He set guidelines for those guardians, forbidding them to hand over the assets to persons of limited capacity or allow them unfettered control, lest the wealth be ruined or squandered.

Allah says: “Do not entrust the feeble-minded with the property that Allah has made a means of your livelihood” (Q 4:5).