Is it permissible for a mother to compel only her financially able children to repay their deceased parent's debt from the association's funds, from which he borrowed, while the deceased left behind entitlements sufficient to cover the debt and more? And is this considered a breach of trust?
It is not permissible to divide the inheritance of the deceased before settling their debts and executing their bequests within the limit of one-third of the remaining estate after debt settlement. If the division occurs before that, each heir bears a portion of the debt proportionate to their share. It is preferable for the wealthy to bear the debt on behalf of the poor.
Breach of trust is forbidden. Allah Almighty says: "O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence]." There is no faith for one who has no trust.
If the deceased borrowed from an association with the knowledge of its members, did not neglect repayment, and made a will to settle the debt, then it is not permissible to describe it as a breach of trust. However, if they borrowed without their knowledge, then that is a breach of trust. Nevertheless, one should refrain from describing it as such, due to the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) saying: "Do not revile the dead, for they have gone on to what they have presented."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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