The orphans'' money

Q: I have four orphans whom I am currently fostering and providing for. I treat them well and consider them as my own children, without any differentiation, but at times, they leave their study and go out to the street to play. When I return home and find them doing so, I warn them not to do this. Some times, I beat them all, but I only intend to protect their health, to bring them up perfectly and to help them with their studies. I do not ask for anything but Allah's reward. Please advise me whether or not I am committing a sin for doing this. I also have two grown-up brothers, who have no family, and no one to sustain them except Allah (Exalted be He) and myself. They do not have a job and they live in Buraydah with their cousins, whereas I live in the northern region (Haql). I am far from them because of my work. I went to them to bring them to live with me, (Part No. 14; Page No. 223) but they refused. They said they would not go to such a faraway place. Now I am very confused because I have to choose between them and my job from which I earn my living. My salary will not be enough if I have to take care of them as well. Sometimes I delay sending them their allowance. Am I committing a sin for doing this? Please advise me, may Allah reward you with good.

A: First, there is no harm in beating the orphans you are fostering as long as you are treating them like you treat your own children in terms of goodness and direction and as long as you do not assign difficult tasks to them. We ask Allah (Exalted be He) to reward you with good for providing for them and being kind to them. Second, there is no harm to keep your job in the northern region away from your brothers, as they are living with your cousins. However, you should not neglect their living requirements as much as you are able. This is based on the saying of Allah (Exalted and Glorified be He): So keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him as much as you can and you should also visit them whenever possible. (Part No. 14; Page No. 224) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.