That his father had given him a slave. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: What is this slave ? He replied: This is my slave which my father has given me. He asked: Has he given all your brothers the same as he has given you? He replied: No. He then said: Return it, then.
Hadith Text - Sunan Abi Dawud 3543
That his father had given him a slave. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: What is this slave? He replied: This is my slave which my father has given me. He asked: Has he given all your brothers the same as he has given you? He replied: No. He then said: Return it, then.
Context and Background
This narration from the Book of Wages (Kitab Al-Ijarah) addresses the important Islamic principle of justice in parental treatment of children. The Prophet (ﷺ) intervened when he observed unequal distribution of gifts among siblings.
Legal Ruling (Hukm)
The scholars derive from this hadith that parents must treat their children equally when giving gifts or favors. Unequal treatment without valid reason is prohibited as it breeds envy and disrupts family harmony. The command to "return it" establishes that such preferential treatment is invalid and must be rectified.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam Al-Nawawi explains that equality in gifts is obligatory upon parents to prevent ill-feelings among children. Ibn Qudamah states that if a parent gives more to one child without justification, the excess must be returned or equivalent compensation given to other children. This ruling applies to all forms of wealth transfer, including slaves, property, and monetary gifts.
Exceptions and Qualifications
Scholars note that differential treatment is permitted for valid reasons such as: special needs of a disabled child, rewarding exceptional piety or service, or compensating a child who missed previous gifts. However, such exceptions must be based on legitimate considerations, not mere preference.
Contemporary Application
This principle extends to modern contexts including inheritance advances, educational expenses, business investments, and property transfers. Muslim parents must maintain equity to preserve family unity and fulfill their religious obligation of justice toward all children.