Recently we conducted an Islamic Inheritance course at Zuhri Academy Luton. Many topics and intricate issues were discussed. Amongst them was the aspect of writing our Will. We are well aware of the importance of writing a Will. However, many of us just don’t get the courage or time to do it.
Narrated `Abdullah bin `Umar:
Allah’s Messengerﷺ said,
It is not permissible for any Muslim who has something to will to stay for two nights without having his last will and testament written and kept ready with him.
(Sahih al-Bukhari 2738)
Here, I have mentioned some of the key reasons, why we don’t get around to doing it along with the solutions to these issues.
No one likes to talk about DEATH
This is a taboo subject in our homes. Many families find it uncomfortable to talk about the inevitable situation of us passing away. We somehow become superstitious that by talking about death or not talking about it, may change the occurrence of it. As Muslims we believe that death is certain and fixed at an appointed time. No one and nothing can change that.
“Every soul will taste of death.” (QURAN 185:3)
The obvious logical answer is that it is better to prepare for something so certain. This is why we must begin to raise the discussions on death. Emphasise to ourselves and our families that the real life for a believer awaits them after this this temporary abode. Make death not as ‘the end’ but, rather as ‘the beginning’ of endless wonder, especially for those who live a life in obedience to their creator. After this we can now discuss the matters around the Will and prepare our families better.
I don’t have any funds to leave behind do I still need a Will
The truth is that all our dealings of this life which are pending like debts we owe or are owed to us, or what possessions we own, no matter how small MUST be recorded and left BEHIND to the knowledge of our Heirs. On this basis, very few of us will be left out of the need to write a will.
There are of course many other reasons for writing a will such as;
- An opportunity to advise our loved ones to remain steadfast on the righteous path.
- To express our love to those who we have left behind in a way that we might have not been able to do so in our lives.
- To seek forgiveness from all our families.
How much of my wealth can I bequeath in Islam?
In Islam Allah has saved us from many family disputes by stipulating the shares of our heirs for us. This has been detailed by Allah in the Noble Quran. However we do have the right to declare one third of our remaining wealth after burial expenses and debts to;
- Any noble cause that will be a continuous charity for us.
- Any permissible cause which does not contradict any Islamic values.
- Anyone who is not in the list of heirs who already has a stipulated share.
I don’t know how to write a will
This is one of the most common reasons for not preparing a will after laziness. Alhamdulillah with the help of Allah and some dedicated brothers this service has been made easier for the public.
You can now complete your will online at www.onlineislamicwill.co.uk
This will be a legally binding Will in accordance to both Islamic and UK law. There is a small charge for the service which is worth paying for considering the peace of mind it will give.
Alternatively you may use the template provided by 1st Ethical at www.1stethical.com
Conclusion
I am aware that this subject is quite unknown to many in our community. I must emphasis that ignorance will not be a valid excuse in the hereafter. If you feel you need further guidance on this issue then I would recommend you visit your local scholar.
Thaqib Mahmood
ZUHRI ACADEMY LUTON
