The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I and the person who looks after an orphan and provides for him, will be in Paradise like this," putting his index and middle fingers together.
Hadith Text and Context
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I and the person who looks after an orphan and provides for him, will be in Paradise like this," putting his index and middle fingers together.
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6005 from the Book "Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab)"
Literal Meaning and Gesture
The joining of the index and middle fingers signifies extreme closeness and proximity. Just as these two fingers are inseparable in this gesture, so too will the Prophet and the orphan's guardian be inseparable in Paradise.
The Arabic term "yakfulu" encompasses both material provision and compassionate care, indicating this responsibility extends beyond mere financial support to include emotional and spiritual nurturing.
Spiritual Significance
This hadith elevates orphan care to the highest spiritual station - companionship with the Prophet himself in the eternal abode. Such proximity to the Messenger of Allah represents the ultimate success in the Hereafter.
The promise applies equally to men and women who undertake this noble responsibility, whether the orphan is a relative or stranger, emphasizing the universal brotherhood in Islam.
Practical Implementation
Scholars explain that "looking after an orphan" includes providing food, drink, clothing, education, and proper upbringing until they reach independence. The caregiver must treat the orphan with kindness and compassion, as if they were their own child.
This guardianship continues until the orphan no longer needs care, typically at maturity. The reward is guaranteed whether the orphan is Muslim or non-Muslim, though greater emphasis is placed on Muslim orphans.
Historical and Social Impact
This teaching transformed Arabian society where orphans were often exploited. It established a comprehensive social welfare system based on individual responsibility rather than state institutions.
Throughout Islamic history, this prophetic encouragement created a culture where caring for orphans became a mark of true faith and a means of attaining divine pleasure and prophetic companionship.