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Why is an Islamic Will (Wasiyat) important?

The importance of the Islamic Will is clear from the following two hadith:
It is the duty of a Muslim who has anything to bequest not to let two nights pass
without writing a WILL about it. (Sahih al-Bukhari)
A man may do good deeds for seventy years but if he acts unjustly when he
leaves his last testament, the wickedness of his deed will be sealed upon him,
and he will enter the Fire. If, (on the other hand), a man acts wickedly for seventy
years but is just in his last will and testament, the goodness of his deed will be
sealed upon him, and he will enter the Garden. (Ahmad and Ibn Majah)
The Islamic Jurists also have a maxim or principle stating:
If the obligatory (waajib) deed that can only be fulfilled by a non obligatory deed
that makes the non-obligatory deed obligatory (waajib).
This means that it is not generally obligatory for a Muslim to make a Will. In nonislamic countries, the Islamic Laws of Inheritance are not recognized and thus
making it obligatory (wajib) for a every Muslim residing in non-islamic country to
have an Islamic Will. Imagine facing Allah having enjoyed all the luxuries this life
has to offer but never having taken consideration for ones own transition into the
next life.
This is a grievous situation for a Muslim because one would have lived ones life
praying, fasting, giving charity and performing other righteous deeds only to undo
such good works at death. This is especially important because the
accomplishment of deeds is determined by their conclusions.
We have chosen to live in a country that does not recognize the Islamic Laws of
Inheritance. It is therefore a religious and moral duty upon every Muslim to make
sure they prepare an ISLAMIC WILL and take steps to complete their life in a
way pleasing to Allah.
In Surah al-Nisa after mentioning the rules of inheritance Allah says, an
obligation (faridah) from Allah and Allah knows every thing and is most Wise.
These are the limits of Allah and he who obeys Allah and His Messenger, He will
enter him in heavens beneath which rivers flow, abiding there forever and that
are a great success. But he who disobeys Allah and His Messenger and
transgresses His limits, He will enter him in hell to live there for ever and for him
is a humiliating punishment. (4:11-14).

Additional Benefits of having an Islamic Will in Western Countries

Burial Rites
By executing (signing) a valid Islamic Will, a Muslim can give directions for the
executor to make proper preparations for the washing and shrouding of the body.
In addition, directions can be made for the funeral procession, salat ul Janazah
(funeral prayer) and the burial. This allows a Muslim to protect their rights and
have an Islamic funeral. This is particularly relevant for new/convert Muslims
because the next of kin will essentially become the legal owners of the body. This
means they can decide to bury or cremate the body as they please. .
Autopsy
A valid Islamic Will, containing directions for the prevention of an autopsy, is vital
evidence in stopping an autopsy if the Coroner orders it. In addition, an Islamic
Will can contain provisions for preventing removal and donation of organs and
other internal body parts.
Guardianship of Minors (Children)
A valid Islamic Will can also provide guardians for any children under the age of
18. This means you will control who looks after your children in the event that
both you and your spouse pass away at the same time. In addition, a valid
Islamic Will also provides for a trust to be created for the maintenance of a minor
until they become adults.
Note: It is recommended that you also consult with a lawyer to ascertain the
completeness and applicability of such Will as per your personal requirements.
Click here for Sample Islamic Last Will Template
May Allah (swt) help me & you to follow his commandments the way shown by
Prophet Muhammad (s.a.a.w)
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