Key Lessons from Sūrah An-Nisā’: Verses 7-9 on Inheritance and Charity

Beneficial Insights from Sūrah An-Nisā’ on Inheritance Rights and Kindness

BENEFICIAL POINTS FROM SŪRAH AN-NISĀ’, VERSE 7-9.

Do you still have the traits of the period of ignorance in you?

During the time of ignorance (Pre-Islamic period), people would deny children and women their share of inheritance. Islam, however, says otherwise and obligates that everyone has the right to inherit, even though their shares vary according to the degree of their relationship to the deceased.

Do not go against the Wisdom of the Most Wise, Most Merciful.

Adhere to the Islamic ruling on inheritance. Thinking there are better ways to distribute your inheritance is going against the wisdom of ALLĀH, as HE HIMSELF has ordained the share of each inheritor. You must not transgress these ordinations or fall short.

Give to the needy.

One of the sublime teachings of Islam, as indicated in the Ayah, is that you should give to those who hope for or show interest in what is within your capability.

Kind words are charity.

ALLĀH urges that in situations where one cannot give due to some reason, one should turn the hopeful person away gently by saying kind words, as the Prophet (ﷺ) mentioned: “A kind word is charity.” {Al-Bukhārī #2989}

Do unto others what you wish to be done to you.

Just as you would want your children to be treated fairly after you, treat other people’s children fairly when you are given the responsibility of caring for them.