Spirit of Islam · INHERITANCE

INHERITANCE

Spirit of Islam, Jan-Feb 2025, p. 19

By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan is named as the default author of the periodical; a piece that carries another writer’s byline is credited to that writer.

level of commitment as he had expected, given their responsibilities. Rahim Baksh had to make one of two choices: either assume complete control of the business and sever ties with his brothers, leading to lifelong enmity, or let the current state of affairs persist, including mutual grievances, and eventually divide the business with bitter memories. Rahim Baksh pondered this dilemma for a few days. He then gathered all the brothers and openly discussed the matter with them. He expressed gratitude to God for the absence of major issues thus far and proposed the best course of action: each brother would assume individual responsibility for one business. This way, peace would be maintained between them, and Rahim Baksh believed it would bring blessings to everyone. The other three brothers were grateful for his generosity and agreed to abide by his decision. After a brief discussion, they decided to draw lots to determine the assignment of each brother to a specific business. Now, all four brothers are engaged in their respective businesses, working diligently from morning till evening, often accompanied by their children. Surprisingly, their relationships have improved even more than before. They willingly assist each other and have even established separate residences. However, Rahim Baksh remains the same elder brother he always was. No brother ever denies a request made by another, and when there’s a need in one household, the women and children from all four families unite to fulfill it, treating it as a collective responsibility. Most fathers believe that the most significant inheritance they can leave for their children is wealth and property, focusing solely on worldly possessions. However, the truth is that the most valuable legacy a father can bestow upon their children is a principled life. It’s through imparting these lessons that children learn to trust in their hard work, engage in their pursuits without conflicts, be content with their rightful share, prioritize future possibilities over immediate benefits, embrace realism instead of indulging in fantasies, and understand that moral inheritance surpasses material wealth. Unfortunately, only a few fathers are aware of this profound reality.  Most fathers believe that the most significant inheritance they can leave for their children is wealth and property, focusing solely on worldly possessions. However, the truth is that the most valuable legacy a father can bestow upon their children is a principled life.

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