What does Islam teach about fostering or sponsoring an orphan (kafalah)?

Caring for an orphan, whether informally within extended family or through formal kafalah sponsorship, is one of the most emphasized acts of compassion in Islamic teaching. The Quran instructs believers not to oppress or dismiss the orphan (93:9) and states that actively improving an orphan's situation, rather than merely leaving them alone, is the better course of guardianship (2:220). The Prophet gave one of his most vivid promises of Paradise for this act, saying he and the caretaker of an orphan would be together in Paradise "like this," holding his index and middle fingers close together (Sahih al-Bukhari 5304). Unlike adoption, kafalah does not change the child's lineage or create inheritance rights, but it provides a loving home, education, and financial support, with the child typically retaining their birth name and family identity. Sponsors are also expected to safeguard any property or inheritance the orphan already possesses, spending on their needs in the best manner, and to hand over their wealth in full and honestly once they reach maturity and sound judgment.

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