No, adoption as it is commonly understood is not permissible (halal) in Islam.
Islamically, the practice closest to adoption is called Kafala. Here's a breakdown:
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Adoption (Prohibited): Traditional adoption, which involves giving an adopted child the adoptive parents' family name and presenting them as their biological child, is prohibited in Islam. This is primarily because Islam places a strong emphasis on lineage and accurately maintaining family ties.
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Kafala (Permitted): Kafala is an Islamic form of guardianship. Under Kafala, the child remains with their original lineage and last name. The Kafil (guardian) takes full responsibility for the child's upbringing, welfare, and financial needs, as if they were their own, without altering the child's lineage or legal identity. The child is still aware of their biological parents (if known) and their heritage.
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Key Differences Summarized:
| Feature | Adoption (Common Understanding) | Kafala (Islamic Guardianship) |
|---|---|---|
| Lineage Change | Yes | No |
| Legal Identity | Changed | Maintained |
| Relationship Disclosure | Presented as Biological Child | Child Knows True Parentage |
| Inheritance | May Involve Inheritance | No Automatic Inheritance |
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Why Kafala is Preferred:
- Preservation of Lineage: Kafala ensures accurate lineage records, which is a central tenet in Islamic law.
- Respect for Biological Parents: Kafala respects the rights and identity of the child's biological parents, if known.
- Avoidance of False Attribution: Presenting a child as someone else's biological offspring is seen as a form of misrepresentation.
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Inheritance Issues: In a traditional adoption, legal complexities arise around inheritance. Islamic inheritance laws are very specific, and adopted children do not automatically inherit from their adoptive parents. However, through Kafala, the Kafil can provide for the child through gifts during their lifetime or through a will, ensuring the child's financial security.
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Conclusion: While conventional adoption is not permitted in Islam due to concerns about lineage and accurately representing familial relationships, Kafala provides a framework for caring for orphaned or abandoned children in a manner that aligns with Islamic principles. It prioritizes the child's welfare while upholding the importance of lineage and identity.
