What is the ruling on a father singling out some of his children for a gift, to the exclusion of their siblings, under the pretext of their young age or their academic achievement, and what is the ruling on the children accepting this unjust gift?

Scholars have differed concerning the ruling on favoring some children over others in giving gifts. The preponderant opinion is the obligation of equitable distribution between sons and daughters in giving gifts, unless there is a legitimate justification. Favoritism without justification is oppression and injustice that leads to mutual hatred.

However, favoritism is permissible if there is a reason, such as a child being engaged in seeking knowledge, or being poor and having many dependents. This is the madhhab of Imam Ahmad.

If a father favors one of his children over others while they share the same circumstances, this is oppression and injustice. The father must seek forgiveness and return the money, or give the others a similar amount. Otherwise, the money must be returned after his death. The favored siblings must return this gift.

This injustice does not affect the children's dutifulness to their father and their connection to him. As for the wife, the father may give her a gift that is specific to her.