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The question

Does a mother sin for the sudden death of her infant if she feels that she did not fulfill her duty towards him?

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Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

If there is no evidence to indicate that the child died due to those around him, then there is nothing upon them, as his death may have been natural. However, if it is proven that he died because one of them rolled over him, then the one who caused it bears no sin due to lack of intent. Nonetheless, she is obligated to pay the blood money, which is to be paid by her 'Aqilah (male relatives on the father's side). She is also obligated to perform expiation if she is an adult, which is freeing a believing slave. If she cannot find one, then she must fast for two consecutive months, based on the words of Allah Almighty: "And never is it for a believer to kill a believer except by mistake. And whoever kills a believer by mistake – then the freeing of a believing slave and a compensation payment presented to his family [is required] unless they give [it up as] charity. But if he was from a people hostile to you and he was a believer, then [there is only] the freeing of a believing slave. And if he was from a people with whom you have a treaty, then a compensation payment presented to his family and the freeing of a believing slave. And whoever does not find [one] – then a fast for two consecutive months as repentance to Allah. And ever is Allah Knowing and Wise."

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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