Quick answer: Faraid is the Islamic law of inheritance that assigns fixed Quranic shares to heirs. Spouses, parents and children receive set fractions (a wife gets 1/8 with children, 1/4 without), and the remainder passes to residuary heirs (asabah). Shares depend on which relatives survive.
Quick answer: Islamic inheritance (‘ilm al-farā’iḍ) distributes an estate using fixed Quranic shares. After funeral costs, debts and any bequest (up to one-third) are paid, heirs receive set fractions — for example a wife gets 1/8 (with children) and a son inherits twice a daughter’s share. The remainder goes to residuary heirs (‘asaba).
Faraid is one of the most precise systems in Islamic law, and getting it right matters deeply. This guide explains the order of distribution, the main fixed shares, and the 2:1 principle — while making clear why a scholar should always confirm a real division.
The order of distribution
Before any heir receives a share, the estate is settled in this sequence:
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Outstanding debts of the deceased.
- Bequest (wasiyyah) — up to a maximum of one-third of what remains, and not to a fixed heir.
- Fixed shares (faraid) to Quranic heirs.
- Residue to the residuary heirs (‘asaba).
You can plan the bequest portion with the Wasiyyah (Islamic will) calculator.
The main fixed shares
These are the most common Quranic shares (Sunni framework). The exact share often depends on whether the deceased left children.
| Heir | Share with children | Share without children |
|---|---|---|
| Husband | 1/4 | 1/2 |
| Wife | 1/8 | 1/4 |
| Mother | 1/6 | 1/3 (conditions apply) |
| Father | 1/6 + any residue | residuary |
| Daughter (single) | 1/2 | — |
| Two+ daughters (no son) | 2/3 shared | — |
| Son | residuary (2× daughter) | residuary |
The 2:1 principle
Where sons and daughters inherit together as residuaries, a son receives twice the share of a daughter. In classical jurisprudence this is paired with the man’s financial obligations — he is responsible for the maintenance (nafaqah) of his family, while a woman’s wealth is hers alone. Understanding that context is important when explaining the rule.
A simple worked example
A man dies leaving a wife, one son and one daughter, with an estate of $90,000 after debts and burial.
- Wife (with children): 1/8 = $11,250.
- Remaining $78,750 goes to the children as residuaries, split 2:1.
- Son: 2 parts of 3 = $52,500; Daughter: 1 part of 3 = $26,250.
Real cases get more complex with parents, grandparents, multiple spouses, or no direct heirs — which is exactly why the calculator and a scholar matter.
Important note
This article explains general principles for education only. Faraid has many special cases (‘awl, radd, blocking/hajb, and differences between schools of law). For an actual estate, always consult a qualified Islamic scholar or a specialist in Islamic inheritance law. For related planning, see our Nisab and Zakat guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a wife inherit in Islam?
A wife inherits 1/8 of the estate if the deceased left children, or 1/4 if there were no children. Multiple wives share that portion equally.
Why does a son get more than a daughter?
When inheriting together as residuaries, a son receives twice a daughter’s share, paired in classical law with the man’s duty to financially maintain the family while a woman keeps her wealth.
Can I leave a will in Islam?
Yes — up to one-third of the estate may be given as wasiyyah, but not to someone who is already a fixed heir, unless other heirs consent.
What is paid before inheritance is divided?
Funeral expenses first, then debts, then any valid bequest of up to one-third, and only then are the fixed shares distributed.
Why This Matters
Understanding islamic inheritance (faraid) is crucial for making informed decisions. This guide provides comprehensive coverage based on authoritative sources and real-world applications.
Key Takeaways
- Practical applications of islamic inheritance (faraid)
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Step-by-step implementation guide
- Real-world examples and case studies
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I use islamic inheritance (faraid)?
A: islamic inheritance (faraid) is most effective when…
Conclusion
By understanding islamic inheritance (faraid), you can make better decisions and achieve your goals more effectively.
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