How is the estate distributed when the heirs trace lineage through multiple different individuals (multiple points of connection)?
Chapter on Distant Kindred (Dhawu al-Arham)
Al-Mughni
Book of Inheritance Shares (Farā'id)
Primary text
When multiple parties trace lineage through multiple distinct individuals, the estate is distributed to those connecting ancestors as if they were alive, divided according to established obligatory shares (faridha). Whatever share accrues to each connecting ancestor is then distributed to those who trace through them, provided no prior claimant supersedes another. If some claimants precede others from the same lineage, the one who first establishes a connection to an existing heir takes precedence. If the connections are from two different lines, the more distant claimants are brought down (nazala) until they meet the existing heir, taking their prescribed share regardless of whether their presence supersedes a nearer relative.
Supporting text
This interpretation aligns with the apparent position of Ahmad. However, certain reports from his school suggest a preference for the nearer claimant in specific scenarios, such as between a maternal aunt and the daughter of a paternal cousin, where the maternal aunt takes one-third and the paternal cousin's daughter takes two-thirds, excluding the daughter of the maternal cousin. Some scholars, like Dhirar ibn Sard, state that if the more distant claimant, upon being brought down, would supersede the nearer one, the nearer one takes precedence; otherwise, the distant one descends until reaching the heir.