Dealing with an Orphan’s Wealth
It is prohibited to use or consume an orphan’s wealth unless it is for his own benefit and welfare. Allah (ﷻ) says:
«وَلَا تَقْرَبُوا مَالَ الْيَتِيمِ إِلَّا بِالَّتِي هِيَ أَحْسَنُ» [الأنعام: 152]
“And do not approach the orphan’s property except in a way that is best.”
It is authentically reported from the Prophet ﷺ that consuming an orphan’s wealth is among the seven destructive sins. Therefore, it is not permissible for you to use it for your own interests or benefit. The guardian or caretaker must seek to increase the orphan’s wealth and use it for his benefit by investing it in trade. Ibn Abi Shaybah recorded that Umar (رضي الله عنه) said: “Seek provision for the orphans from their wealth so that zakah does not consume it.”
[اللجنة الدائمة: 5504]
