What is Faraid?

When a Muslim passes away, his or her estate will be distributed based on the Islamic law on Inheritance or Faraid. It deals with the distribution of the assets (the estate) of a deceased person to his heirs in accordance with Allah's decree in the Quran and according to hadith or tradition of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. The distributions and shares are determined based on the relationships between the deceased and the heirs.

Faraid

In terms of language, ""Faraid"" (فرائض) is the plural form of the word ""fardh"" (فرض) in Arabic, which refers to something that is mandated or regulated by law. Therefore, ""Faraid"" can be understood as ""obligatory matters."" According to Islamic law, ""Faraid"" is the inheritance law system that has been established by the Quran and Sunnah. It is a legal framework that governs the distribution of inheritance or legacies based on Islamic principles. It determines the rightful heirs, the amount of their shares, and the procedures for distribution.

The firm responsibility of a Muslim to the laws of Faraid is mentioned in the Quran:

“...[These shares of the estate are] an obligation [imposed] by Allah. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise.” ]

[An-Nisa, verse 11]

For reference on eligible heirs and their estimated shares, you can use the Inheritance Calculator available on the Syariah Court website via https://syariahcourt.gov.sg/

For more related questions, visit: https://ask.gov.sg/muis.