The sixth directive is that the wealth of orphans should not be misappropriated. The words of this directive are the same as those of fornication earlier: “Do not approach the wealth of orphans except for their welfare and betterment.” The implication is that one should only use the wealth of the orphans for their development and protection and this too should be done till the time when orphans reach maturity and can be entrusted with their wealth. In Surah Nisa, the Almighty has given certain guidelines in this matter; however, since they relate to the shariah, they shall be mentioned in the chapter “The Social Shariah” of this book. Here, this much should remain clear that in the given verse what one has been prohibited regarding orphans is a grave crime and one should not consider it to be trivial. Consequently, the Quran says:

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ يَأْكُلُونَ أَمْوَالَ الْيَتَامَى ظُلْمًا إِنَّمَا يَأْكُلُونَ فِي بُطُونِهِمْ نَارًا وَسَيَصْلَوْنَ سَعِيرًا (10:4)

Indeed, those who devour the property of orphans unjustly, swallow fire into their bellies; and soon shall they be cast into the raging fire of Hell. (4:10)

(Javed Ahmed Ghamidi)

(Translated by Dr. Shehzad Saleem)