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Everything You Need to Know About Shariah Compliant Will

by Maheeka C Dec 26, 2023 12 MIN READ

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Shariah Compliant Will

As a Muslim, it is essential to understand the importance of a Shariah Compliant Will. Shariah law governs all aspects of a Muslim’s life, including inheritance and estate planning. In this blog post, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Shariah-compliant wills. From understanding Shariah law and the concept of a will in Islam to the process of creating a Shariah-compliant will and answering frequently asked questions, we have got it covered. We will also clear common misconceptions about Shariah-compliant wills and discuss their benefits. Read on to find out why having a Shariah-compliant will bring peace of mind and help you adhere to Islamic principles.

Understanding Shariah Law

Shariah law, derived from the holy Quran, hadith, and the rulings of Islamic scholars, serves as the legal framework within Islam. It covers principles relating to finance, business activities, and personal data, with a focus on compliance and adherence. Understanding its basic tenets is crucial, particularly in the context of the Islamic law of succession, making it essential for individuals seeking Shariah-compliant solutions.

The Origins of Shariah

The principles of Shariah originate from the holy Quran, the Sunnah, and the hadith, evolving to include cultural requirements. These principles have been integral to the Muslim religion since the time of the Prophet Muhammad, governing Islamic wills and inheritance based on the holy Quran’s guidelines. Shariah compliance emphasizes certainty, fairness, and adherence to the law’s principles, reflecting its deep roots in Islamic tradition and practice.

Basic Principles of Shariah

The Islamic law of succession governs inheritance, bequest, and intestacy. Shariah principles ensure fair distribution of wealth among family members and beneficiaries. Islamic will comply with Shariah principles. The duty of a Muslim to provide for family members is outlined in the holy Quran, guiding inheritance principles. Shariah provides a framework for succession planning and creating a succession plan. These principles are essential for understanding Shariah-compliant wills.

The Concept of a Will in Islam

Islamic wills, known as wasiyyah, are a crucial aspect of succession planning in Islam. They enable the fair distribution of wealth and assets by sharia law. In the absence of a will, Shariah dictates asset distribution based on inheritance principles. A key feature of Islamic wills is the bequest of fixed shares to beneficiaries, fulfilling the duty of a Muslim to ensure equitable wealth distribution among family members.

The Importance of Writing a Will

Writing a will in Islam is an essential duty, ensuring the equitable distribution of wealth and assets among family members and beneficiaries. Islamic will provide clear guidance on asset distribution, adhering to the principles of Shariah law, and avoiding intestacy. These wills establish a legal framework for bequests, gifts, and inheritance, emphasizing the Muslim’s responsibility to provide for their family members. The creation of a will in Islam is a fundamental aspect of fulfilling this duty and ensuring compliance with Shariah principles.

The Islamic Perspective on Inheritance

In Islam, inheritance is a fundamental duty guided by the principles of the law of succession. It ensures fair distribution of wealth and assets among family members. The laws of Shariah provide a framework for inheritance, bequest, and succession planning, with Islamic wills playing a significant role in guiding asset distribution in line with legal principles. These principles outline the rights and entitlements of family members in inheritance, ensuring a just and equitable distribution.

Shariah Compliant Will: An Overview

A Shariah-compliant will is a legal document aligned with the principles of the law of succession in Islam, ensuring fair wealth and asset distribution. These wills comply with the cultural and legal requirements of the Islamic faith, grounded in fairness, justice, and adherence to Shariah laws. They are crucial for proper asset and inheritance distribution, guided by the principles of Sharia law and overseen by Shariah scholars.

Definition of a Shariah Compliant Will

A Shariah-compliant will is a legal document that ensures the fair distribution of wealth and assets among family members and beneficiaries according to the principles of the law of succession. It is designed to comply with the cultural, legal, and religious requirements of the Islamic faith, ensuring certainty and guidance for inheritance and bequest. The drafting of a Shariah-compliant will is guided by the principles of the law, ensuring compliance with the Islamic principles of inheritance, as well as the laws of Shariah.

Key Features of a Shariah-Compliant Will

A Shariah-compliant will encompass inheritance, bequest, and wealth distribution. It establishes fixed shares for family members, ensuring compliance with succession laws. Islamic will guide asset distribution and gifts, following Shariah laws. The duty of a Muslim to support family members is pivotal. Creating a Shariah-compliant will entail adherence to succession law principles, ensuring fair and just inheritance.

Process of Creating a Shariah-Compliant Will

The process of creating a Shariah-compliant will involve seeking legal advice and consulting with Islamic scholars well-versed in Sharia law. It includes understanding the principles of the law of succession and the cultural requirements of the Islamic faith while complying with the number of additional requirements and the legal necessities of British law. Drafting a will necessitates compliance with Shariah law, ensuring proper distribution of wealth and assets in line with Qur’anic principles and the guidance of Shariah scholars.

Preliminary Steps

Before creating a Shariah-compliant will, it’s essential to gather personal data and details of all family members. Identifying business activities, assets, and investments for inheritance planning is crucial. Consulting Islamic scholars to understand the principles of Shariah law is necessary, as well as considering cultural requirements and ensuring compliance with Islamic finance. Understanding the legal advice needed for a Shariah-compliant will is imperative for a comprehensive planning process.

Essential Elements to Include

Incorporating the principles of Sharia law, a shariah-compliant will ensure a fixed share is allocated to beneficiaries. It should also include specific bequests (wasiyyah) to family members or charity, complying with the rulings of shariah scholars. Addressing succession planning and the duties of a Muslim towards family members are essential. Additionally, it must comply with the principles of the Islamic law of succession to ensure shariah compliance.

To ensure a Shariah complaint will meets legal requirements, it must adhere to the Sharia laws and rulings of Islamic scholars. Additionally, compliance with UK inheritance tax laws is essential. Drafting the will by Shariah law principles and fulfilling any additional requirements for Shariah compliance is crucial. Seeking legal advice is recommended to ensure conformity with all aspects of the law. This process ensures that the Shariah Compliant Will is legally sound and follows all necessary guidelines.

Common Misconceptions About Shariah Compliant Wills

Addressing misconceptions about Shariah-compliant wills is crucial. Many believe that inheritance laws clash with conventional banking, but this is a fallacy. Shariah compliance extends beyond personal assets and involves specific cultural requirements. It also encompasses more than just asset distribution. Minor adjustments can make a will Shariah compliant. Educating individuals about these misconceptions is essential for a better understanding of Shariah-compliant wills.

Clearing the Myths

Shariah law is not solely based on the Holy Quran. It encompasses the interpretations of Shariah scholars and various sources. Shariah compliance extends beyond Islamic marriages and is applicable globally. Not limited to Muslim-majority countries, it’s also relevant in Western jurisdictions. There are cultural misconceptions regarding the law of succession, and Shariah compliance is not solely based on the laws of Sharia. Understanding these myths is crucial in comprehending the broader applicability and principles of Shariah law.

Benefits of Having a Shariah-Compliant Will

Ensuring peace of mind, a Shariah-compliant will offer certainty and adherence to Islamic principles. It allows for halal investment and prohibits gambling, aligning with Sharia law. Additionally, it complies with the cultural requirements and laws of Shariah. A leading wills barrister can assist in meeting the number of additional requirements under British law, guiding compliance with Allah’s commandments in the Qur’an.

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Answering FAQs

Shariah will is crucial for Muslims due to the laws of Shariah, ensuring assets are distributed according to Islamic law. Business owners can have a shariah will, but compliance requirements should be met. Islamic law of succession dictates legal advice necessity and certainty, accordance, and cultural requirements. Shariah scholars must ensure compliance with sharia law. British law and sector screening may have additional requirements. Allah, Quran, Arabic, and Riba play significant roles in shariah wills.

Why is having a Sharia Will significant for Muslims?

Having a Shariah-compliant will is crucial for Muslims as it ensures that their assets are distributed according to Islamic law. Without it, asset distribution may be subject to state laws or court decisions. Additionally, a Shariah-compliant will cover funeral arrangements, debts, and inheritance, providing peace of mind and ensuring one’s wishes are carried out.

How is a Sharia Compliant Will different from a conventional Will?

A Sharia Will differs from a conventional Will as it is based on Islamic principles and governed by Shariah laws. It follows the guidelines of the Holy Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Unlike a conventional Will, a Sharia Will ensures the distribution of assets according to Shariah principles.

Is it possible for me to have a Sharia Will in addition to a conventional Will?

Yes, it is possible to have both a Sharia Will and a conventional Will. Individuals can use a Sharia Will to distribute assets according to Islamic law, while a conventional Will can address assets and estates not covered by the Sharia Will. This approach allows compliance with Islamic principles and the country’s laws.

Is it possible for someone who is not a Muslim to be named as a beneficiary or executor in a Sharia Will?

Islamic law permits non-Muslims to be beneficiaries or executors in a Sharia Will, as long as it aligns with the rulings of Islamic scholars. Inclusion of non-Muslim family members or business activities is allowed under certain circumstances. The distribution of assets to non-Muslim beneficiaries must adhere to the principles of Islamic succession.

Is a Sharia Will legally valid in the UK?

A Sharia Will is legally valid in the UK if it meets the requirements of English law. The legal framework recognizes the principles of Islamic succession. It’s advisable to seek legal advice to ensure compliance with UK laws on succession planning.

Is it possible for me to modify or revise my Sharia Will?

Updating a Sharia Will is possible, with minor changes or additional requirements, as per the principles of Islamic law. However, it is important to ensure that any amendments comply with the rulings of Islamic scholars. Seeking guidance from a solicitor specializing in Shariah law is recommended for making updates.

What is the process of distributing assets in a Sharia Compliant Will?

A Sharia Compliant Will ensures that each beneficiary receives a fixed share of the estate, by Islamic principles. The distribution of assets follows the principles of Islamic inheritance law. Islamic finance principles may also be applied to manage assets within the Sharia Compliant Will.

Besides the distribution of assets and estate, what other elements can a Sharia-compliant law encompass?

Apart from the distribution of assets, a Shariah Compliant Will can include bequests, known as wasiyyah, and other specific instructions. It may also specify the payment of debts and the settlement of liabilities. The principles of Islamic law allow for the designation of beneficiaries and the distribution of assets.

What Happens If I Don’t Have a Sharia Will?

Without a Sharia Will, your assets and estate may not be distributed by Islamic principles. Laws of intestacy might apply, leading to an inheritance distribution that goes against Shariah law. To ensure proper adherence to Islamic principles, it is important to have a Shariah-compliant Will in place.

Why Should I Make a Sharia-Compliant Will?

Ensuring the distribution of assets according to Islamic principles, a Shariah-compliant Will provides clarity and certainty. It is a religious duty for Muslims to plan their estates in line with the teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having a Shariah-compliant will ensure that your assets and estate are distributed according to Islamic principles after your passing. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your wishes are aligned with your religious beliefs and that your loved ones will be taken care of in a way that is by Shariah law. Despite common misconceptions, a Shariah-compliant will be legally valid in the UK and can coexist with a conventional will if desired. Muslims need to have a Shariah will to ensure the proper distribution of assets and to fulfill their religious obligations. By creating a Shariah-compliant will, you can leave a lasting legacy that reflects your faith and values.

About Arnifi


Arnifi is digital first Corporate service provider helping companies enter the Middle East region, starting with UAE and Saudi Arabia markets. Founded and backed by professionals from Amazon, Souq and other large companies operating in KSA – the team understands what it takes to succeed as a startup in both UAE and Saudi Arabian markets, apart from going through the setup process multiple times. Arnifi will provide a truly digital experience to entry and scale up of companies both UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Arnifi promise is simple, yet revolutionary, use technology and a great team to provide transparency, efficiency and great customer experience in the whole process. Check out at – www.Arnifi.com for more details

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