How to Divide Inheritance According to Islamic Law (Sharia Inheritance Division)

Inheritance is one of the most important financial matters in family and social life. In Islam, the rules of inheritance are derived from the Qur’an and Sunnah, making the process of Sharia inheritance division both a religious obligation كيفية تقسيم الميراث الشرعي and a legal system. Understanding how to divide inheritance according to Sharia law is crucial for avoiding family disputes, ensuring justice, and fulfilling the will of Allah.

The Importance of Sharia Inheritance Division

Unlike other legal systems, Islamic inheritance law is not based on human opinions but on divine revelation. The Qur’an dedicates verses in Surah Al-Nisa to outline the exact shares of heirs. This means that no one has the right to change or manipulate the system of Sharia inheritance division. By following these rules, Muslims ensure fairness and prevent conflicts among relatives after the death of a family member.

Who are the Legal Heirs?

To understand how to divide inheritance according to Sharia, one must first identify the rightful heirs. The heirs are usually divided into three main categories:

1. Primary heirs: These include the father, mother, husband, wife, son, and daughter. They always have a share in inheritance unless blocked by a specific rule.
   
   

2. Secondary heirs: Such as brothers, sisters, grandparents, and grandchildren, who may inherit depending on the presence or absence of primary heirs.
   
   

3. Extended heirs (Agnatic heirs): Uncles, cousins, and other male relatives who inherit only in the absence of closer heirs.
   
   

The General Rules of Division

The shares of inheritance are fixed and cannot be altered. For example:

• A son receives a share equal to that of two daughters.
  
  

• The wife receives one-eighth if the deceased has children, and one-fourth if there are no children.
  
  

• The husband receives one-half if his wife has no children, and one-fourth if she does.
  
  

• Parents each receive one-sixth if the deceased has children.
  
  

This structured system ensures balance between fairness and responsibility. The principle that “males inherit twice the share of females” is often misunderstood; it is tied to financial responsibility, as men in Islamic law are required to support their families financially.

Steps for Sharia Inheritance Division

1. Paying debts and funeral expenses: Before dividing the estate, all debts and expenses must be settled.
   
   

2. Executing the will: Up to one-third of the estate may be distributed according to the deceased’s will, provided it does not benefit legal heirs unfairly.
   
   

3. Dividing the remainder among heirs: The remaining assets are divided according to Sharia rules.
   
   

Why Proper Division Matters

Failure to apply Sharia inheritance division can result in injustice and family disputes. In some cases, heirs try to ignore certain relatives or favor others, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. A fair and transparent division brings peace, maintains family ties, and fulfills a religious duty.

Modern Challenges

Today, Muslims living in non-Muslim countries may face challenges in applying Sharia inheritance law, as local laws often contradict Islamic rules. To address this, Islamic wills and legal documents should be prepared in advance, ensuring that inheritance is distributed according to Sharia.

Conclusion

Learning how to divide inheritance according to Sharia is essential for every Muslim. It is not just a matter of wealth but an act of worship and justice. By following the rules of Sharia inheritance division, families honor their deceased loved ones, maintain fairness, and fulfill their duty toward Allah’s commands.