“Fatima came to Abu Bakr and said: ‘Who will inherit from you?’ He said: ‘My wives and my offspring,’ so she said: ‘Why should I not inherit from my father?’ Abu Bakr said:‘I heard Allah’s Messenger say (Allah bless him and give him peace): “We will not be inherited from,” but I support those whom Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) used to support, and I provide for those for whom Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) used to provide.’”
The Legacy Of Sayyidina Rasoolullah
Ash-Shama'il Al-Muhammadiyah 401
Contextual Analysis
This narration from Ash-Shama'il Al-Muhammadiyah addresses the delicate matter of inheritance from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). When Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) inquired about inheriting from her father, Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) responded with profound wisdom and adherence to prophetic tradition.
Scholarly Commentary
The statement "We will not be inherited from" establishes that prophets leave behind knowledge and guidance rather than material wealth. Their legacy is spiritual, not worldly.
Abu Bakr's response demonstrates perfect adherence to Sunnah while maintaining compassion. He honored the Prophet's explicit instruction while continuing the financial support the Prophet provided to his family during his lifetime.
This incident illustrates the distinction between inheritance (mirath) and ongoing provision (nafaqah). While material inheritance was prohibited, continued support for the Prophet's dependents remained obligatory.
Legal Principles Derived
Prophets' wealth becomes public property for the Muslim community after their passing.
The ruling applies specifically to prophets and does not extend to ordinary Muslims.
Maintaining the Prophet's household and dependents remains a community responsibility.