Adoption What is Islam's standpoint on adopting a child, if a man and a woman do not have their own? Reply The Qur'an has clearly directed the Muslims to give their adopted children the names of their real fathers and if their real fathers are not known, then they should be considered and called brethren in faith or the adopted children of the adopting person ( Al-Ahzaab 33: 5). This directive clearly implies that adoption of a child per se is not only allowed in Islam but the Prophet (pbuh)'s example has encouraged it as a great social service and a humane act. The directive regarding naming the child after his real father is obviously to avoid all kinds of psychological, social and emotional trauma for the child at a later stage in life. It should be kept in mind that the adopted child does not inherit the property of his surrogate parents and vice versa . The surrogate parents may will in his favor, but in the absence of such a will the adopted child shall not be included in the inheritors of the deceased. I hope this helps. In case any aspect remains unclear, please feel free in writing back to me at your convenience. May Allah grant us all true understanding of His guidance. Regards The Learner