How should inheritance be distributed when the deceased leaves behind two or more hermaphrodites (khunthayn)?
Chapter on Distant Kindred (Dhawu al-Arham)
Al-Mughni
Book of Inheritance Shares (Farā'id)
Primary text
When two hermaphrodites (khunthayn) are left, their inheritance shall be calculated based on the number of their possible states (hal). For two, there are four states; for three, eight; for four, sixteen; and for five, thirty-two states. The total wealth across all states is aggregated and divided by the total number of states. The resulting share belongs to them if they originate from the same side of lineage. If they come from different lines, the sum of what each individual receives in the different states is calculated, then divided by the total number of states to determine each one's rightful share. This view is held by Ibn Abi Layla, Dhirar, and Yahya ibn Adam. It is also the opinion of Muhammad ibn al-Hasan, based on the analogy of the position of al-Sha'bi.
Supporting text
The second opinion dictates that they are assigned only two states: once as males and once as females, similar to the ruling for a single hermaphrodite. This is the position of Abu Yusuf. The first method is deemed more sound because it apportions shares based on every possibility inherent in the individual, thus achieving greater justice, whereas the second method disregards certain possibilities without evidence.