In a recent social media post, VJ and actress Anoushey Ashraf made a statement that has caused quite a stir. Sharing an article by DIVA magazine about a Saudi father shedding tears of joy at his adopted daughter’s graduation ceremony, Ashraf criticized Pakistan’s approach to adoption, branding it as a stigma. But let’s delve deeper into the matter.
Ashraf’s claim that adoption is frowned upon in Pakistan due to the child not being mahram, or a blood relative, is a misinterpretation of Islamic teachings. The rules surrounding adoption and mahram are based on the religious beliefs outlined by Allah and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Dismissing these beliefs as “sick minds” is disrespectful to millions of faithful individuals.
It is essential to clarify that in Islam, there is a specific scenario where a child can be adopted and establish a semi-familial relationship with the adoptive family. This occurs when the child is below two years of age and is breastfed directly by the adoptive mother for at least a day and a night. This practice creates a foster relationship, where the child becomes mahram to the new family, eliminating the need for hijâb and prohibiting marriage with the adoptive parents’ biological children.
By disregarding these nuanced religious guidelines, Ashraf fails to acknowledge the importance of preserving Islamic traditions. While adoption may not follow the conventional Western model in some Muslim countries, it is essential to respect and understand the religious context behind it.
Let us engage in meaningful discussions that promote cultural sensitivity and bridge the gaps between different beliefs.