rather a clear renunciation of it. That is why he said, “Let someone else witness this, for I will not bear witness to injustice.” He then asked, “Do you want all your children to treat you with equal devotion?” The father replied, “Yes, O Messenger of Allah.” The Prophet said, “Then treat them equally. When you favor one child over another, resentment takes root in the heart of the one who was slighted, and he will cease to honor his father.”

He further exhorted, “Fear Allah and deal justly with your children.” The Prophet ﷺ thus commanded us to show absolute fairness in our gifts: if you give one of them ten riyals, give the other the same. Do not say, “It is only a small amount—it is nothing.” Even if it is a single riyal… give each exactly what you gave the other. The early righteous generations—may Allah have mercy on them—were so scrupulous about justice that if they kissed one child, they would immediately kiss the other.

The same applies to your looks and expressions: do not gaze at one child with anger and at another with pleasure. Be even-handed, maintaining the same welcoming face for all. Only when one of them actually does something blameworthy may you show displeasure; otherwise, keep them equal and show no preference whatsoever.

A related issue: some people marry off their older children while still having younger ones and then stipulate in their wills that, after their death, the younger children shall each receive an amount equal to the dowry paid. This is forbidden and impermissible. What you gave the older child met a particular need that the younger siblings do not yet share; therefore, you have no right to bequeath anything extra to them. Should such a bequest be made, it is invalid; it must be returned to the estate, where it will be distributed according to the lawful shares.

Likewise, some people have a son who works with them in their business or on their farm