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الوصية

Wasiyah

An Islamic will — foresight, fairness, and lasting charity

Wasiyah

Wasiyah refers to an Islamic will or testament in which a Muslim outlines instructions regarding the distribution of their wealth, responsibilities, and personal matters after death. It is a means of ensuring that one’s assets are handled in accordance with Islamic principles and personal wishes.

“It is prescribed for you when death approaches any of you if he leaves wealth — that he should make a bequest for the parents and near relatives according to what is acceptable — a duty upon the righteous.” — Surah Al-Baqarah (2:180)

Preparing a Wasiyah reflects responsibility, foresight, and care for family members. It helps prevent disputes, clarifies intentions, and ensures that obligations and trusts are fulfilled properly.

Islamic will and guidance

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Religious Importance

In Islam, making a Wasiyah is highly encouraged, especially when a person has debts, dependents, or outstanding obligations. The Prophet ﷺ emphasised not delaying the preparation of a will. A Wasiyah helps ensure wealth is distributed fairly and in accordance with Islamic inheritance laws (fara’id), alongside any permissible bequests.

What Can Be Included in a Wasiyah?

  • Asset distribution: Allocate up to one-third of the estate to non-heirs, charitable causes, or specific individuals.
  • Outstanding debts: Clear instructions to settle debts and financial obligations from the estate before distribution.
  • Guardianship: Appointment of guardians for minor children if applicable.
  • Charitable bequests: Assigning donations or ongoing charity (Sadaqah Jariyah) — including through Roshan Foundation.

Key Guidelines

  • Must comply with Islamic inheritance principles and applicable local law; seek qualified legal and scholarly assistance.
  • An individual must be of sound mind and not acting under pressure when drafting the Wasiyah.
  • The document should be written clearly and unambiguously to avoid disputes.
  • It is best to have witnesses in accordance with Islamic and local legal requirements.
  • Review and update after major life changes such as marriage, childbirth, divorce, or significant financial changes.

Spiritual and Practical Benefits

Preparing a Wasiyah provides peace of mind by ensuring that one’s affairs are organised and instructions are in place. It offers clear guidance for family members during an emotional time and helps prevent confusion, delays, and disagreements regarding the distribution of wealth.

From a practical perspective, a well-documented Wasiyah protects the rights of heirs and ensures that debts, obligations, and trusts are properly settled before distribution. It reduces the likelihood of legal complications and helps families navigate inheritance matters smoothly and respectfully.

Spiritually, drafting a Wasiyah reflects awareness of accountability toward Allah. It acknowledges that wealth and possessions are a trust granted temporarily and must be handled responsibly. By preparing a Wasiyah, a person demonstrates sincerity, fairness, and commitment to fulfilling the rights of others.

A Wasiyah also allows individuals to leave meaningful contributions — such as charitable bequests or ongoing Sadaqah Jariyah — that continue to benefit others long after one’s passing, creating a lasting legacy rooted in compassion.

Ultimately, preparing a Wasiyah is an act of foresight and care. It reduces conflict, clarifies intentions, and safeguards both worldly responsibilities and spiritual accountability.

Sadaqah e Jariyah Waqf

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