Muhammadiyah's Perspective on Islamic Inheritance Jurisprudence

Dividing inheritance often turns the home atmosphere tense. Many previously good sibling relationships become strained due to disputes over the distribution of parental assets. As a student, I view that the issue of inheritance is not merely about who gets a larger or smaller share, but also about how we understand the justice established in Islamic teachings. In Indonesia, inheritance issues are still frequently resolved based on family customs. Some families divide assets equally among all children, while others hand everything over to the eldest child. Such decisions are often taken solely to avoid conflict, without considering the rules explained in the Qur’an. Consequently, a sense of injustice emerges that later triggers resentment. Muhammadiyah, as one of Indonesia’s largest modernist Islamic organisations, holds the view that the distribution of inheritance should follow Islamic law as detailed in the Qur’an, particularly Surah An-Nisa verses 11, 12, and 176. These provisions are studied in the science of faraidh, which regulates who is entitled to be an heir and the size of their share. This principle demonstrates that the division of inheritance is not merely a result of human agreement, but part of divine law aimed at preserving justice. Many people question why, in certain conditions, a son receives twice the share of a daughter. Looking purely at the numbers, the provision does appear unequal. However, according to Muhammadiyah’s perspective, justice in Islam does not always mean equal distribution. Islam considers the responsibilities borne by each party. A man has the obligation to provide financial support for his wife, children, and in certain circumstances, other family members. Meanwhile, the assets received by a woman become her personal property entirely, without any obligation to support the family. As a student studying various perspectives in social life, I understand that the issue of gender equality often becomes the basis for criticism of Islamic inheritance law. However, I also see that a rule cannot be judged from just one side. Islamic law exists as a complementary system of rights and obligations. When a man’s financial duties within the family are greater, the differing distribution of inheritance is not a form of discrimination, but part of a balance of responsibilities. Nevertheless, I also realise that societal life is undergoing many changes. Many women are now the backbone of the family, even earning more than their male siblings. Such conditions often raise new questions about the relevance of the inheritance distribution. Muhammadiyah maintains that the fixed portions of inheritance must follow sharia. However, the spirit of mutual assistance, family deliberation, grants given while the testator is still alive, and wills that comply with sharia provisions can be solutions to maintain family welfare without altering the established inheritance law. In my opinion, the biggest problem lies not in the rules of distribution, but in the lack of public understanding. Many families only discuss inheritance after the parents have passed away, so the emotional atmosphere often influences the division process. Education on inheritance law should be provided early so that every family member understands their rights and obligations. This way, decisions are based on knowledge and deliberation, not emotion. Additionally, transparency in recording family assets is crucial. Many conflicts arise because heirs are not clearly informed about the total assets left behind or the debts that must be settled first. Islam teaches that before assets are distributed to the heirs, obligations such as funeral costs, debt repayment, and the execution of wills in accordance with sharia must be fulfilled. Understanding these stages will help reduce misunderstandings within the family. As a young generation, I believe we have a responsibility to study Islamic law comprehensively, including inheritance. We must not let our information come solely from snippets of opinion on social media without understanding the legal basis. Universities, student organisations, and religious institutions play an important role in providing education so that the public understands that inheritance law is not just about dividing assets, but also about protecting the rights of every heir. Ultimately, the distribution of inheritance according to Muhammadiyah’s perspective is not just about numbers and percentages, but about fulfilling God’s mandate with honesty and responsibility. When every family member understands that these rules aim to bring justice in accordance with sharia, the potential for conflict becomes smaller. Inheritance should be a path to maintaining family ties, not a reason for breaking the bonds of brotherhood. As a student, I hope that more young people are willing to study the science of faraidh so that the values of Islamic justice can be understood comprehensively and applied wisely in social life.