Chapter on What Has Been Reported Regarding the Child of Adultery and the Foundling

It is narrated from Anbasa ibn Mus'ab that he said: "I said to Abu Abdullah عليه السلام: 'A bondwoman of mine committed adultery. Can I sell her child?' Imam عليه السلام said: 'Yes.' I said: 'Can I perform Hajj with its price?' Imam عليه السلام said: 'Yes.' "

It is narrated from Hammad, from Al-Halabi, who said: "Abu Abdullah عليه السلام, was asked about a child born out of adultery-can he be bought, sold, or used for service? Imam عليه السلام said: 'Yes, except for a foundling girl (abandoned by parents), as she cannot be bought.' "

It is narrated from Hammad bin Isa, from Hariz, from Abu Abdullah عليه السلام: "The abandoned child (foundling) is free. If he wishes, he may assign his allegiance to those who raised him, or if he wishes, to others."

In the narration of Al-Muthanna, from Abu Abdullah عليه السلام: "If the one who raised the abandoned child demands repayment for his expenses and he (the child) is financially capable, he must repay him. However, if he is not financially capable, then what was spent is considered charity."

Zurarah narrates from one of the Imams عليه السلام, peace be upon them, that Imam عليه السلام said regarding a foundling: "She is free and cannot be bought or sold. However, if a child is born to you from her through unlawful relations, then you may keep or sell the child if you wish, as he is your slave."