This Is What It’s Like to Be a Muslim Adoptive/Foster Parent

Iram Iqbal

How many children are you intending to adopt?

One, in the near future inshaAllah.

What made you want to become an adoptive parent?

I have always wanted to adopt for as long as I can remember. I remember being a child and feeling sad at seeing children in poverty while visiting family in Pakistan. Then when I got older and I studied the Qur’an and hadith, I realized how much emphasis was put on feeding and taking care of orphans. This then strengthened my resolve.

What were the reactions you received from the Muslim community when you decided to adopt?

Generally, people have been very encouraging when we tell them our plans to adopt.

What are some misconceptions that you have noticed the Muslim community has about adoption?

A lot of people believe that it is not allowed in Islam. However, if one were to do a quick Internet search they would see that while there are some stipulations in Islam regarding caring for an orphan, it is very much encouraged.

What is your message to the Muslim community regarding this topic?

There are many orphaned children throughout the world. Those who are able to financially care for such children have the responsibility to do so. There is so much reward in it. If our true goal in life is to please Allah then this is an excellent way to do so. There are so many hadiths regarding this topic. Here are just a few:

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “…. The best house of Muslims is one where an orphan is cared for…..” [Recorded in the Collection of Sayings of the Prophet by Ibn Majah]

The Prophet (peace be upon him) further said, “I and one who takes care of an orphan will enter paradise together like this,” and he raised his forefinger and middle finger jointly leaving no space between them (by way of illustration).” [Recorded in the Authentic Collection of Sayings of the Prophet by Imam Bukhari]

“I and one who takes care of an orphan, whether related to him or a stranger, will be like these two in paradise;” and the narrator raised his forefinger and middle finger to illustrate this.” [Recorded in the Authentic Collection of Sayings of the Prophet by Imam Muslim]