The Prophet (ﷺ) came visiting me while I was (sick) in Mecca, ('Amir the sub-narrator said, and he disliked to die in the land, whence he had already migrated). He (i.e. the Prophet) said, "May Allah bestow His Mercy on Ibn Afra (Sa`d bin Khaula)." I said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! May I will all my property (in charity)?" He said, "No." I said, "Then may I will half of it?" He said, "No". I said, "One third?" He said: "Yes, one third, yet even one third is too much. It is better for you to leave your inheritors wealthy than to leave them poor begging others, and whatever you spend for Allah's sake will be considered as a charitable deed even the handful of food you put in your wife's mouth. Allah may lengthen your age so that some people may benefit by you, and some others be harmed by you." At that time Sa`d had only one daughter.
Wills and Testaments (Wasaayaa)
Sahih al-Bukhari 2742
Contextual Background
This narration concerns Sa'd bin Abi Waqqas during his illness in Mecca after the Hijrah. The Prophet's visit demonstrates profound compassion, while Sa'd's concern about dying in the land he migrated from reflects the spiritual significance of Hijrah.
Legal Ruling on Bequests
The Prophet's limitation of bequests to one-third establishes a fundamental Islamic legal principle. This restriction preserves the rights of prescribed heirs while allowing testators discretionary charity. Classical scholars unanimously agree this represents the maximum permissible bequest.
Wisdom Behind the Restriction
"It is better for you to leave your inheritors wealthy" emphasizes the obligation toward one's dependents. The prohibition against leaving heirs destitute reflects Islam's comprehensive economic justice. Even one-third was considered "too much" to ensure primary obligations to heirs are fulfilled.
Comprehensive Charity Concept
"Whatever you spend for Allah's sake will be considered as a charitable deed" expands the definition of charity beyond formal donations. Maintaining one's family becomes an act of worship, transforming mundane expenses into spiritual investments when performed with proper intention.
Divine Wisdom in Lifespan
The Prophet's supplication for extended life demonstrates that longevity serves divine purpose. A believer's continued existence benefits others through knowledge, charity, and guidance, while also serving as divine testing for both the individual and those around them.