Taking care of yatim (children whose parents aren’t able to care for them) is a great responsibility. Allah commands us to protect their property until they are mature enough to handle it wisely.
In Surah An-Nisa (4:6), Allah says:
“Mentor the orphans until they get married; then, if you believe that they can make good judgements, hand over their money to them. Do not spend it excessively or quickly before they grow up And whoever is rich should hold back from spending. And whoever is poor, they should spend fairly.”
What Does This Mean?
This verse teaches us how to properly care for yatim and their wealth:
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Test their maturity before giving them their wealth. Yatim should not receive their inheritance until they are responsible enough to manage it wisely.
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Guardians must not misuse yatim’s money. Some people might be tempted to take excessively for themselves, but Allah warns against this.
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If the guardian is wealthy, they should limit how much money they take from yatim’s wealth. If they are poor, they may take a fair and reasonable amount to cover their expenses and needs.
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There should be witnesses when handing over the wealth. This protects both the guardian and the yatim from disputes.
How Can We Apply This in Our Lives?
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Be responsible with what is entrusted to you. Whether it’s money, belongings, or someone’s trust, always handle it with care. Don’t try to make money by taking advantage of people.
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Protect the rights of the vulnerable. Yatim, children, and those in need deserve fairness and support.
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Always act with honesty and accountability. Allah sees everything, and He will hold everyone accountable for their actions.
Why Does This Matter?
This verse reminds us that honesty and responsibility are key values in Islam. Taking care of others—especially yatim —is not just a duty, but a test of character. Allah trusts us to be fair and just, and He will reward those who act with sincerity and care.