Sheikh Awaida Othman, a Dar al-Ifta Al-Misriyyah fatwa secretary, addressed a question about a sister who wanted to reclaim money she had previously given up to her sister.
He explained that when a person gives money to another person as a gift and the gift is accepted, it becomes a completed gift. In the situation described, the sister cannot simply reverse her decision and demand the money back.
Can a Sister Revoke a Gift Given to Her Sister?
Sheikh Awaida Othman explained that revoking a gift between siblings is not permissible under the ruling he presented.
He also noted that Islamic rulings concerning the possibility of returning to a gift include a specific provision involving a parent and their child, while the same situation does not apply between siblings.
What If the Sister Previously Said She Did Not Want the Money?
If a sister voluntarily gives money to her sister and clearly states that she does not want it back, the money falls under the concept of a gift once the gift is accepted.
This is particularly significant when the original intention was to help a family member, strengthen family ties, or settle a financial disagreement. Reversing the decision later can create further tension between relatives.
The Impact of Financial Disputes on Family Relationships
Sheikh Awaida Othman emphasized that financial disagreements can become a major source of tension within families, particularly when one party changes their position after giving money away.
For this reason, disputes over money should be handled with wisdom so that a financial issue does not develop into a lasting conflict between siblings.
Protecting Family Ties
Maintaining family relationships remains an important consideration when dealing with financial disagreements between relatives.
The reversal of a previous gift can lead to arguments, resentment, and strained relationships. Resolving such matters calmly can help protect the bonds between family members.
How Can the Dispute Between the Two Sisters Be Resolved?
Sheikh Awaida Othman called for dealing with such situations calmly and seeking a solution that takes the feelings of both sides into account.
When a financial disagreement arises between sisters, the family can seek a peaceful arrangement that resolves the dispute without embarrassing either party or allowing the financial issue to become a permanent source of conflict.
The Importance of Family Ties in Financial Disputes
The issue is not limited to the financial ruling itself. It also highlights the importance of preserving family ties, since disagreements over money can have long-lasting effects on relationships between relatives.
Wisdom and calm communication can therefore play an important role in preventing a financial disagreement from turning into estrangement or ongoing hostility between siblings.
Can a sister ask for money back after giving it away?
According to Sheikh Awaida Othman's explanation, a sister cannot revoke a completed gift given to another sister.
Can a gift between siblings be revoked?
The ruling presented by the fatwa secretary states that a gift between siblings cannot be revoked, while there are specific rulings concerning gifts from parents to their children.
Does giving money away make it a gift?
When money is voluntarily given and the gift is accepted, it can become a gift under the circumstances described by the fatwa secretary.
Why can financial disputes be harmful between siblings?
Financial disputes can lead to arguments, resentment, and damaged family relationships, making calm and wise resolution important.
How can sisters resolve a dispute over money?
The disagreement can be addressed calmly through a solution that respects both sides and prevents the financial issue from developing into a lasting family conflict.
