AbdulRehman Foundation

In Muslim law, property division is governed by the principles outlined in Islamic jurisprudence, specifically within the framework of Islamic inheritance laws or laws of succession. These laws determine how the property of a deceased person is distributed among their heirs. The primary source of guidance for property division in Muslim law is the Quran, supplemented by the teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) known as the Hadith.

Here are the key principles and features of property division in Muslim law:

1. Intestate Succession: In cases where a person dies without leaving a valid will (intestate), the property is divided among the heirs according to the rules of Islamic inheritance.
2. Fixed Shares: Islamic inheritance laws prescribe fixed shares or proportions for different categories of heirs. These fixed shares are determined based on the relationship of the heir to the deceased and are expressed as a percentage or fraction of the total estate.
3. Residuaries and Sharers: The property is first distributed among the “residuaries,” who are entitled to fixed shares, and then among the “sharers,” who receive a share from the remaining estate. Residuaries include close family members such as spouses, parents, and children, while sharers include more distant relatives.
4. Respective Shares: Each category of heirs has a defined share in the deceased person’s property. For example, a wife is entitled to receive a specified share, while children, both male and female, receive different shares based on their number and relationship to the deceased.
5. Priority of Heirs: Islamic inheritance laws establish a priority order for distributing the property among the eligible heirs. Generally, the spouse, children, parents, and other close relatives inherit in that order, with the distribution varying depending on the specific circumstances and surviving family members.
6. Inclusion of Both Male and Female Heirs: Islamic inheritance laws recognize the rights of both male and female heirs to inherit property. However, the shares allocated to male and female heirs may differ in certain situations due to varying levels of financial responsibility and maintenance obligations.
7. Non-Muslim Heirs: Non-Muslims are generally not entitled to inherit under Islamic inheritance laws. However, Muslim individuals can include non-Muslims in their wills and allocate a portion of their property to them, subject to certain conditions and limitations.

It is important to note that the specific rules and interpretations of Islamic inheritance laws can vary across different schools of Islamic jurisprudence and different countries that apply Islamic law. Legal systems in various jurisdictions may also have additional provisions that govern property division and inheritance. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a qualified Islamic scholar or legal expert familiar with the applicable laws and practices in a particular jurisdiction for guidance on property division in Muslim law.