Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: Whoever a person conferred Umra (life grant) upon a person and he says: I confer upon you this and upon your descendants and anyone who survives you, and that becomes his possession and that of his posterity. It would become (a permanent possession) of those who were conferred upon this gift, and it would not return to its owner (donor), for he gave that as a gift in which accrued the right of inheritance.
Narrated by Jabir b. 'Abdullah al-Ansari (Allah be pleased with him) said:
Context
In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ addresses the concept of granting an 'Umra' (a life grant) to someone, emphasizing that such gifts are permanent and cannot revert back to the giver. This highlights the significance of generosity and the responsibilities that come with bestowing gifts, especially in the context of inheritance.
Modern Application
In contemporary life, this principle encourages individuals to think carefully about their gifts and donations. When giving, especially in terms of wealth or property, understanding the permanence of such actions can foster a culture of responsibility and care in financial stewardship.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Charity because it emphasizes the importance of generosity and the lasting impact of gifts on beneficiaries.
And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.
Prescribed for you when death approaches [any] one of you if he leaves wealth [is that he should make] a bequest for the parents and near relatives according to what is acceptable - a duty upon the righteous.
It is that of which Allah gives good tidings to His servants who believe and do righteous deeds. Say, [O Muhammad], "I do not ask you for this message any payment [but] only good will through kinship." And whoever commits a good deed - We will increase for him good therein. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Appreciative.
The Prophet is more worthy of the believers than themselves, and his wives are [in the position of] their mothers. And those of [blood] relationship are more entitled [to inheritance] in the decree of Allah than the [other] believers and the emigrants, except that you may do to your close associates a kindness [through bequest]. That was in the Book inscribed.
This hadith is #4061 from Sahih Muslim, in the Book of The Book of Gifts. It is graded Sahih and narrated by Jabir b. 'Abdullah al-Ansari (Allah be pleased with him) said:.