tsunami

Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. The devastating tsunami in Asia left many children orphans. We read the news that some child-traffickers went to the disaster zone with the purpose of taking those children to trade in them. Also, some non-Muslims went to adopt those parentless children. What is the role of Muslims in taking care of tsunami orphans and homeless children? Jazakum Allah khayran.

If diseases begin to spread in the areas devastated by the Asian earthquake and tsunami, can those living in the affected areas leave to a remote area to be away from epidemics? How does this affect the role of relief workers?

Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. How are we supposed to look at natural disasters such as the recent tsunami? Are they punishments or simply trials and tests? Are we justified in characterizing them as signs of the Hour? Jazakum Allah khayran.