Is a father legally obligated to spend on his children—those under 20 years of age—and if he does not spend on them, is it considered charity?

The father must provide for his young children who have no wealth and for his daughters until they marry and their husbands consummate the marriage.

The majority of scholars are of the opinion that financial support is not obligatory for an adult son who is capable of earning a living.

The financial support should be sufficient for food, drink, clothing, and housing. Some jurists have also stated the obligation of providing for education.

Providing for one's children is a great act of devotion. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "A dinar you spend in the way of Allah, a dinar you spend on freeing a slave, a dinar you give in charity to a poor person, and a dinar you spend on your family—the greatest in reward is the one you spend on your family."