Laqīt̤ (لقيط)
Definition
Laqīt̤ (لقيط) denotes an abandoned child, who has been left by those responsible for them, typically their parents. The discovery of such a child brings legal and ethical responsibilities to the finder—termed multaqiṭ (ملتقط), or the taker up.
Etymology
The word laqīt̤ (لقيط) in Arabic, in its broadest sense, refers to “anything lifted from the ground.” Over time, in the context of Islamic law, it specialized to mean an abandoned or foundling child.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: لقيط
- Turkish: Bulunmuş çocuk
Legal and Social Implications
In Islamic jurisprudence, the concept of laqīt̤ holds significant legal and ethical weight. The act of finding a laqīt̤ triggers religious and societal duties, particularly towards the child’s welfare and upbringing. The responsibility of care is underscored by various legal schools, which outline provisions for the child’s protection and care.
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Welfare Responsibility: The immediate concern upon finding a laqīt̤ is ensuring their safety and well-being. Islamic texts stress the moral duty to provide shelter, food, and care.
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Custody and Adoption: In many Islamic traditions, though formal adoption as known in the Western sense is not permissible, the concept of kafala (sponsorship) allows for guardianship and upbringing by the finder or other responsible parties.
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Identity and Rights: There are rigorous guidelines to ensure the rights of a laqīt̤, including their potential inheritance rights, subject to varying interpretations by different Islamic schools of thought.
Notable Commands and Historical Precedents
Historically, Islamic traditions and legal texts have detailed the treatment and statuses of foundlings, emphasizing their protection and integration into society. Quranic verses and Hadith literature often highlight the importance of caring for the vulnerable, including orphans and foundlings.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Islamic Law and Society: The Practice of Iftā’ and Religious Institutes” by Wael B. Hallaq
- “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Joseph Schacht
- “Islamic Law: Theory and Practice” edited by Robert Gleave and Eugenia Kermeli
Takeaways
The term laqīt̤ symbolizes more than just a legal category—it represents a test of society’s compassion and ethical commitments. The responsibilities towards a foundling child, dictated by Islamic law, emphasize the religion’s focus on communal welfare and justice.
Conclusion
Understanding the term laqīt̤ unveils the deep ethical and legal constructs within Islamic traditions concerning abandoned children. Care for these children epitomizes the values of mercy, protection, and social responsibility, ultimately reflecting the broader Islamic commitment to human dignity and compassion.
