Is Inflation a Factor When a Parent Gives Gifts to Children Over Time?
Question:
My mother gave me $25,000 in 2008 for my walima expenses. My two brothers also wanted $25,000 each, to be fair, so that one of us doesn’t get more than the other.
My mother did not have that money at the time, so she has been giving this money slowly to them over time. As it is taking some time, an agreement was signed that it would be paid to my brothers with inflation. The amount of 25,000 dollars in 2008 is very close to $30,000 now in 2020.
The money has still not been given yet in full to my brothers, which they can use for any purpose, such as getting married or anything else. My question is: is it halal to add the inflation component to this? If it is found out that it is not halal, my brothers will respect this and will remove that component from the agreement.
Answer:
Wa ‘alaykum assalam wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh.
I pray you are well.
Being Fair With Your Children
All your mother has to do is be fair. What this entails is up for discussion.
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) commanded, “Fear Allah and be fair with your children.” (Bukhari) This indicates that one must be fair and just when dealing with his or her children. This is important, as unfair and preferential treatment can hurt the other children and harm the relationship.
Being Excellent With Parents
Having said this, Allah has commanded us to “be excellent in conduct with parents.” (Qur’an, 2:83) You should all consider your mother’s situation. Is it easy for her to get the extra money? Will she be placed under undue stress and difficulty?
Will forgoing the extra amount be better? If so, then perhaps it might be better to look past the smaller figure and look at the large gift she has already promised to give.
Your siblings should assess the situation and discuss the matter with your mother. Remember, the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) always chose the easier of two matters – as long as it wasn’t a sin. (Bukhari)
Is Inflation Considered With Gifts to Children?
This matter as could be argued from both perspectives. However, giving the extra amount is closer to equity and being just. This situation requires a balance between equity and excellence.
With all the above in mind, your brothers should speak to your mother and find the easiest solution to this matter. One which embodies excellence. Perhaps it will be a means for Allah to be pleased with you all.
May Allah grant you all the best of both worlds.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani