'Awl (العول) - Reduction
When shares exceed 100%
Definition
'Awl (literally "increase") is an adjustment mechanism applied when the sum of heirs' fixed shares exceeds the total estate (more than 100%).
In this case, instead of disadvantaging some heirs, the common denominator is increased so that all shares are proportionally reduced.
Classic example
A woman dies leaving:
- Her husband
- Two full sisters
- Her mother
Calculation without 'Awl (impossible)
Calculation with 'Awl (solution)
The denominator is increased from 6 to 8 so that the total equals 1:
Historical origin
The first case of 'Awl occurred under the caliphate of 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him). Faced with this dilemma, he consulted the Companions who together decided to apply this principle of proportional reduction.
Radd (الرد) - Redistribution
When shares are less than 100%
Definition
Radd (literally "return") applies when the sum of fixed shares is less than 100% and there is no residuary heir (Asaba) to receive the remainder.
In this case, the surplus is redistributed proportionally to fixed share heirs, except for the spouse (who does not benefit from Radd according to the majority of scholars).
Example
A man dies leaving:
- A daughter
- His mother
- No son, no father
Calculation without Radd
Calculation with Radd (solution)
The remainder (2/6) is redistributed proportionally between the daughter and mother:
Special case: presence of spouse
If a spouse is present, they keep their fixed share but do not benefit from Radd. The surplus is redistributed only among other heirs.
Summary
| 'Awl | Radd | |
|---|---|---|
| When? | Shares > 100% | Shares < 100% without Asaba |
| Solution | Proportional reduction | Surplus redistribution |
| Spouse | Share reduced like others | Does not benefit from Radd |
| Effect | Everyone receives less | Some receive more |