When the late Pope Shenouda III was asked about Christen inheritance system, he said that Church hasn’t appointed specific system for inheritance. Jesus answered one from the crowd who said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
Christianity didn’t put certain rules for dividing money, but rather spiritual rules. Love helps solving many problems. This was the case at the days of the apostles. The bible says: “Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.
Now, Coptic Christians in Egypt follow the Islamic rules of inheritance, but why should they? It’s one right for those who can’t have their own children to adopt and raise children. I find adoption is one way to offer love. Jesus Christ was adopted by Josef the carpenter, and Moses was adopted by the daughter of Pharaoh. Moreover, there are so many examples for adoption in the old testament as well.
Adoption is a great thing that has produced many good people. Why should the Copts waive the right of adoption and Christian inheritance system?
