Introduction to Fractions when calculating the distribution in Islamic Wills (Part 1)

For the purpose of this article, we use will the following scenario. The scope of this article is to only explain how to use fractions and not how these fractions were determined.

• 1 Wife => 1/8
• 1 Mother => 1/6
• 1 Son => Rest of Estate(i.e. 17/24)

The article is split in the following sections:

1. What is a fraction?
2. Why are fractions exact?
3. How do you use a fraction to determine the share?

What is a fraction?

A fraction contains two parts; a numerator and a denominator. The top number is called the numerator and the bottom number is called the denominator. From the diagram above, the numerator is 1 and the denominator is 8. A fraction is shown using a back slash on the computer (i.e. 1/8). It is used to express the exact share of an heir. Please note that these definitions are referred to for the remainder of this article.

Why are fractions exact?

There are two main ways of expressing a share for an heir; as a percentage or as a fraction. There are however a lot of percentages that cannot be expressed exactly. From our example, 1/6 is the share of the mother. As a percentage, to be exact, it would be 16.66666% (The 6 goes on forever). So if we were to use 17% (rounding up), there is a possibility that the calculation would not be accurate. For example, if the estate size was £10000, 1/6 would be £1666.66. If were to use 17%, the share would be £1700.00. Therefore, we use fractions as it is the most accurate expression of the share for an heir.

How do you use a fraction to determine the share?

From our example, the son's share is 17/24. The formula for calculation of the share is to multiply by the top (numerator) and divide by the bottom (denominator). If the estate value is £15,000, then multiple £15,000 by 17 and divide by 24. The son's share is then £10625.

Part 2 of "Introduction to Fractions when calculating the distribution in Islamic Wills"

Submitted on Jul-20-2009

Written by The Islamic Wills Company Ltd

The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.