Another ruling on bequests: if a testator designates a specific item for someone and that very item is lost or destroyed—whether before the testator dies or afterward—the bequest becomes void, because the beneficiary’s right lapses with the loss of what was bequeathed.

Another ruling: when the testator does not state the exact amount, as when he says, “I bequeath a sahm (share) from my estate,” the word sahm is understood to mean one-sixth. In Arab usage a sahm denotes a sixth, a view reported from ʿAlī and Ibn Masʿūd, and one-sixth is the smallest fixed share in the law; therefore the bequest is applied to it. However, if he says, “I bequeath something of my estate,” without specifying an amount, the heir may give the legatee whatever property he wishes that has monetary value. The term shayʾ (“something”) is unrestricted in language and in law, and it applies even to the least item that can be owned—though such a trifle will hardly achieve the intended benefit. Allah knows best.

Rulings concerning the executor (the overseer of the will and other matters):

The executor is the one charged, after the testator’s death, with disposing of the property and other affairs over which the testator had authority during his lifetime. His role is that of an agent, for he acts on the testator’s behalf.

Entering into this agency and accepting it is recommended and earns reward, yet it is prescribed only for a person who is able to carry out the task and who trusts his own integrity. Allah the Exalted says, “Cooperate in righteousness and piety” (Qur’an 5:2), and the Prophet ﷺ said, “Allah continues to aid His servant so long as the servant is helping his brother.” The Companions acted accordingly: the Prophet entrusted al-Zubayr, may Allah be pleased with him