يَتِيمًا ذَا مَقْرَبَةٍ 15
Translations
An orphan of near relationship
Transliteration
Yatīman dhā maqrabah
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase refers to an orphan who is a close relative, emphasizing the special responsibility believers have toward orphans within their own family. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that this specificity highlights the graduated nature of Islamic obligations—one's closest relatives have the strongest claim on one's charity and care. The context emphasizes that true righteousness includes not only freeing slaves but also showing kindness and support to vulnerable family members.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Al-Balad (90), a Meccan surah revealed in the early period of Islam. It is part of a passage (90:12-16) describing the characteristics of the people of the right hand (ashab al-yamīn)—those who will be blessed. The ayah contextualizes righteous deeds within the framework of familial and social obligations that reflect genuine piety.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The best house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are treated well, and the worst house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are treated badly' (Sunan Ibn Majah). Additionally, Anas ibn Malik reported that the Prophet said: 'Whoever supports an orphan from his family will be with me in Paradise like these two [fingers]' (Sunan Al-Tirmidhi).
Themes
Key Lesson
Islam places particular emphasis on supporting those closest to us who are in need, recognizing that charity and compassion begin at home and within extended family networks. This teaches believers that true faith must be expressed through concrete acts of kindness toward vulnerable relatives, not merely through private piety or distant benevolence.