Chapter: The reprehensibility of a parent favoring some of his children over others in gifts

1773 – Al-Nuʿmān ibn Bashīr (may Allah be pleased with them both) reported that his father took him to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and said, “I have given this son of mine a servant who belonged to me.” The Messenger of Allah ﷺ asked, “Have you given all your children something like this?” He replied, “No.” The Prophet ﷺ said, “Then take it back.”

In another wording he said, “Have you done this for all your children?” He replied, “No.” The Prophet ﷺ said, “Fear Allah and be just with your children.” So my father went back and revoked that gift.

In yet another narration the Prophet ﷺ said, “O Bashīr, do you have any children besides this one?” He said, “Yes.” He asked, “Did you give each of them a gift like this?” He replied, “No.” He said, “Then do not make me a witness, for I do not bear witness to injustice.”

Another version states: “Do not make me a witness to injustice,” and in one narration: “Have someone else witness this.”

He then said, “Would it please you if they were all equally dutiful toward you?” He answered, “Yes.” The Prophet ﷺ said, “Then do not do it.” Agreed upon.