Is the acceptance or rejection of a bequest valid during the life of the testator?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Bequests
Primary text
The acceptance or rejection of a bequest (*wasiyya*) during the lifetime of the testator is valid because it constitutes permission to act (*idhn*), similar to accepting a power of attorney (*tawkeel*). The opinion affirming this validity is held by Al-Shafi'i.
Supporting text
A bequest made in favor of the executor (*wasi*), however, is a transfer of ownership effective at a future time (death), thus acceptance before that time is invalid.