What is the calculation method for the deferred payment schedule of Diya over three years?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Blood-Money (Diyyāt)

Book 48 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Blood money, whether for a life or a limb (such as severing the nose, ears, or male/female organs), is divided over three years, with one-third due at the end of each year. If the required amount is less than the full Diya, the distribution follows specific rules: If it is one-third of the Diya (like the Diya for a single tooth or a deep stab wound), it is due at the end of the first year, as the 'Aqilah (the liable party) does not pay anything immediately. If it is one-half or two-thirds of the Diya (like the Diya for a hand or both nostrils), one-third is due at the end of the first year, and the remainder at the end of the second year. If the amount exceeds two-thirds of the Diya, two-thirds is paid over the first two years, and the balance at the end of the third year. If the injury results in a loss of a sense, such as hearing or sight, one-third is due each year, following the logic that if the Diya was less than full Diya, the annual payment would not be less than one-third, so it should not exceed one-third when the total liability is greater.

Supporting text

Abu Al-Khattab holds that the period for injuries where the amount is determined by healing (Arsh) starts from the moment of healing in all cases, because the final indemnity amount is not established until healing occurs.