Ruling on Adopting a Child

الاستفتاء

AssSalaam o Alykum, Janab I want to know whether it is Islamic to adopt a child from orphanage house like edhi home, knowing that a child may be an orphan or an illegitimate child of a sin? Secondly, if one is not sure about the legitimacy of the child can he be adopted and is it unlawful to adopt illegitimate child? Anticipating an early reply, thankyou and warm regards.

الجواب حامدا و مصلیا

Adopting an orphan child, giving him a proper education, being responsible for his upbringing, clothing and feeding him is indeed an act of great reward. However, an adopted child is not like one’s biological child. For this reason, the women of the house must conceal themselves from him when he becomes Baligh (sexually mature), like they would in the presence of any other non-Mahrem male. Similarly, the adopted child will not be counted amongst the heirs of the adopter. However, if the adopter gives his adopted child anything during his life time making his adopted child the sole owner and possessor of such, then it will become the possession of the adopted child. Furthermore, merely transferring the gifted thing in his name through paperwork is not enough to make him its possessor. The adopted son will, however, be of the heirs of his own biological father. Nonetheless, children are innocent and sinless. They cannot be blamed for whichever situation they are placed in. For this reason, it is permissible for one to adopt a child.