Is it permissible to favor one child over others in gift-giving, and does the ruling differ if the favoritism is due to the child's good character and obedience to his parents?
Scholars have agreed upon the permissibility of justice among children in giving gifts but differed on the ruling regarding favoritism between them, holding two opinions: The first prohibits favoritism absolutely, while the second prohibits it unless there is a legitimate reason. The proponents of the first opinion cited the of Nu'man ibn Bashir, which contains the Prophet's (peace be upon him) command for justice and his prohibition of injustice, and also argued that favoritism leads to the severing of kinship ties and animosity. The proponents of the second opinion cited the action of Abu Bakr with Aisha (may Allah be pleased with them both), which is interpreted as being due to her need and inability. The correct view is that justice is obligatory unless mature and discerning adults consent, and a male is given double the share of a female. Obligatory maintenance is an exception, and a will in favor of an heir is not permissible.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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