Kafalah

Letter K · Updated Sep 4, 2026

In plain terms

Kafalah is the fostering or guardianship of a child who is not one's biological offspring, providing for their upbringing and welfare. In Islamic law, it differs from adoption, since it does not change a child's lineage or inheritance rights. The child keeps their original family name and lineage, where known.

Related terms

See the term in context

Is it permissible, in Islamic law, for a manager to refuse to grant an employee a waiver to transfer to another job, or to renege on promises of promotion and salary increase? And was sponsorship (kafalah) instituted to prevent an employee from earning his livelihood?
It is not permissible for the employer to break a promise. The questioner may continue his work while demanding a salary increase or non-renewal of the contract. The company has the right to prevent transfer if it is in…
Is there any Shar'i basis for placing a financial deposit to guarantee the right to a personal financial sponsorship (Kafalah)?
There is no disagreement among scholars regarding the permissibility of collateral (rahn), based on the Almighty's saying: "then collateral in hand." Collateral is the retention of an item against a right that can be…
What is the ruling on a letter of guarantee, and what is its legal evidence? Is it considered a loan that brings benefit, or a guarantee for which compensation is not permissible to take? And what is the legitimate alternative if it is not permissible?
A bank guarantee is a definitive undertaking by a bank to pay a specific amount to a beneficiary on behalf of a client, should the client fail to fulfill their obligations. A letter of guarantee is considered a contract…

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