📚 Understanding ẔAWŪ ʾL-FURŪẒ (ذوو الفروض): The Sharers of Islamic Inheritance
Definition
ẔAWŪ ʾL-FURŪẒ (ذوو الفروض): These are individuals entitled to specific portions of an inheritance according to Islamic law as set forth in the holy Qurʾān. Their shares are predefined and made clear in the Qurʾānic texts, ensuring that each rightful heir receives his or her due share.
Etymology
- ẔAWŪ (ذوو): Derived from the Arabic root “ذوات” meaning “possessors” or “holders”.
- ʾL-FURŪẒ (الفروض): Comes from “فرضة” meaning “obligatory shares” or “prescribed portions”.
When combined, ẔAWŪ ʾL-FURŪẒ translates to “the holders of prescribed shares”, emphasizing the God-ordained distribution system in Islamic inheritance.
Background
Islamic inheritance laws are detailed in the Qurʾān, primarily in Surah An-Nisa (4:7-12, 4:176). The system is a blend of both economic and moral principles aimed at ensuring fair and equitable distribution of wealth among family members.
ẔAWŪ ʾL-FURŪẒ usually encompasses:
- Spouses
- Parents
- Children
- Siblings (under specific conditions)
- Grandparents (when applicable)
Each group or individual is assigned a specific share such as:
- Wife: 1/8 or 1/4 (depending on if there’s a child)
- Husband: 1/4 or 1/2 (depending on if there’s a child)
- Mother: 1/6 or 1/3 (depending on the number of siblings)
- Father: Usually 1/6 when children are present
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities:
- Many cultures and religions emphasize fair distribution of inheritance among family members.
- Both Islamic and Western legal systems detail specific laws to govern inheritance, albeit through different principles.
Differences:
- Islamic law outlines specific, fixed shares directly in sacred texts.
- Western systems often allow for more flexibility through wills and other legal instruments.
Synonyms
- Sharers
- Heirs-by-Qu’ran
- Beneficiaries (in a broader sense)
Antonyms
- Disinherited
- Excluded heirs
Related Terms
Fara’id (الفرائض): Islamic science of allocate inheritance according to specified shares.
Wathīyya (وصية): A bequest or will in Islamic law, which can only dispose of up to one-third of the deceased’s estate that remains after debt repayments.
Mīrath (ميراث): General term for inheritance or the act of inheriting.
Exciting Facts
- Islamic inheritance laws were revolutionary, drastically impacting women’s standing and economic support by ensuring they receive rightful shares.
- The concept is one of the most detailed and clear-cut sections of the Qurʾān, showcasing the importance Islam places on justice and equity in wealth distribution.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Islamic inheritance law reflects a complex yet fair approach to dividing wealth, balancing between individual rights and familial responsibilities.” – Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb
“In the meticulous arrangement of ẔAWŪ ʾL-FURŪẒ, one discovers the essence of Islamic ethics - fairness, compassion, and the structured socio-economic order.” - Fatima Mernissi
References
- Al-Adhami, B., “Islamic Jurisprudence and the Concept of Fair Inheritance”, Beirut Publishing.
- Khan, M. M., “The Book of Inheritance Distributions”, Islamic Legal Society.
- Scholarly articles and journals on Islamic law (e.g., Journal of Islamic Studies, Al-Hikmah Review).
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “Islamic Inheritance Laws: The Sharers, The Relatives, and The Residues” by Ahmad Al-Hasan.
- “Inheritance in Islam” by Abdul Rahman I. Doi.
Inspirational Farewell: “May understanding the intricacies of our ancient and eternal laws illuminate our paths and inspire us to uphold justice in every walk of life. Embrace knowledge, practice fairness, and strive to safeguard the harmony and wisdom of our traditions.”
— Hassan Al-Rashid, October 2023
