Chapter: The Emphatic Prohibition of Consuming an Orphan’s Property

Allah the Exalted says, “Indeed, those who consume the wealth of orphans unjustly are only swallowing fire into their bellies, and they will burn in a blazing Flame” (Q 4:10). He also says, “Do not approach the orphan’s property except in the manner that is best” (Q 6:152). And He says, “They ask you about orphans. Say, ‘Setting matters right for them is best; and if you mix your affairs with theirs, they are your brothers. Allah knows the corrupter from the reformer’” (Q 2:220).

1614 – Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Avoid the seven destructive sins.” They asked, “O Messenger of Allah, what are they?” He replied, “Associating partners with Allah; sorcery; killing a soul that Allah has forbidden, except with due right; consuming usury; consuming the property of an orphan; fleeing from the battlefield; and slandering chaste, unsuspecting, believing women.” Agreed upon. The phrase “destructive sins” (al-mubiqāt) means deeds that lead to ruin and perdition.

[Commentary]

The author—may Allah have mercy on him—in his book Riyāḍ al-Ṣāliḥīn opens a chapter on the prohibition of consuming orphans’ wealth. Orphans are children, male or female, whose fathers died before they reached puberty. Such children deserve tenderness, care, mercy, and compassion, for the death of their fathers has broken their hearts and they have no protector except Allah, exalted is He. They are therefore entitled to special kindness and attention.