The study presents a comparison of legislation and practice with regard to fostering and other forms of child care in the Middle East, and is also a comparison of child care in Islam and in Judaism. It is based on the relevant passages in Islamic and Jewish law, supplemented by the respective provisions of international conventions, and on extensive field work in terms of personal interviews and observations. The study attempts a compilation of official activities and private options in the interest of the child. It also documents female ingenuity and sense of practicability. Particular attention is paid to the specific national aspirations and family concepts encountered, including examples of imamic and rabbinical opinions and statements. Special subjects addressed comprise secret adoption, the dormant child, the Cohen puzzle, and the mystery of the Yemeni babies.