What is the ruling on benefiting from inheritance acquired through unlawful means, such as "stealing from a bank or selling prohibited items," with the heirs being aware of that?
If a person inherits money and does not know its source, whether it is lawful (halal) or unlawful (haram), then it is lawful for him, and he is not obligated to research its source. However, if he knows that the money is unlawful, then the death of the inheritor does not make it lawful for the heir. He must spend it on charitable causes and give it to the poor and needy. It is permissible for the poor heir to take from it an amount sufficient for his needs.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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