Magic, known as “sihr” in Arabic, holds a significant place in the Islamic worldview. This article explores the concept of magic in Islam, highlighting its prohibition and spiritual dimensions.
Islam unequivocally prohibits the practice of magic, considering it a major sin and a form of disbelief. The Quran warns against its deceptive nature and emphasizes the importance of relying on Allah’s guidance and protection. Muslims are encouraged to strengthen their faith, recite protective verses from the Quran, and seek refuge in Allah to safeguard themselves from the harmful effects of magic.
Furthermore, the Sunnah provides guidance on seeking protection from magic through supplications and the use of ruqyah, the recitation of specific Quranic verses for healing and spiritual well-being. It is important to note that while the Quran acknowledges the existence of magic, it emphasizes its prohibition and condemnation.
What does magic mean?
The ability to use supernatural forces to produce extraordinary feats. This is the most common meaning of magic, and it is often associated with fantasy stories and mythology. In this sense, magic is something that is beyond the laws of nature and can be used to perform impossible things, such as making objects disappear, flying through the air, or changing the weather.
In Arabic, the word “magic” can be translated into several words, including:
- Sorcery: The practice of tricks and deception to influence others.
- Deceit: Hiding the truth or misleading others.
- Witchcraft: The practice of magical works using supernatural forces.
- Talismans: Words or symbols that are believed to have magical powers.
The concept of magic in Quran
In the context of the Quran, magic refers to the use of supernatural or occult powers to influence or manipulate events, people, or the natural world. The Quran acknowledges the existence of magic and warns against its practice, considering it to be a form of deception and disbelief.
According to Islamic teachings, magic is condemned as an evil and forbidden practice. Muslims believe that magic is performed through the assistance of jinn (spirits), who can be commanded by sorcerers or magicians to carry out various acts. However, engaging in magic is considered a major sin in Islam.
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What is the meaning of jinn and demons?
In Islamic theology, jinn are supernatural beings created by Allah (God) from smokeless fire. They are mentioned in the Quran and are believed to exist in a parallel dimension alongside humans. Jinn possess free will and can choose to be good or evil, just like humans.
Jinn are considered sentient beings with their own communities, societies, and hierarchies. They have the ability to interact with humans, although their presence is generally unseen. Jinn are believed to have different abilities and powers, including the ability to shape-shift, possess humans, and influence their thoughts and actions.
In Islamic belief, demons or evil spirits are often associated with the malevolent actions of jinn. Just as there are good and righteous jinn, there are also evil jinn who engage in mischief, deception, and harm. These evil jinn are commonly referred to as shayateen (devils) and are seen as tempters who try to lead humans astray.
It is important to note that while jinn and demons are both supernatural entities, they are distinct in Islamic theology. Jinn are a separate species of beings created by Allah, while demons are the malevolent subset of jinn that engage in evil actions.
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The word Magic mentioned in Quran
“Suleiman (Solomon) did not disbelieve, but the devils disbelieved teaching men magic” (2:102)
“If I had the knowledge of the unseen, I should have secured abundance for myself, and no evil would have touched me” (7:188).
“And when there came to them a Messenger from Allah confirming what was with them, a party of those who were given the scripture threw away the book of Allah behind their backs as if they did not know. And they followed what the devils gave out falsely of magic of the reign of Solomon; for Solomon did not disbelieve but the devils disbelieved, teaching men magic and such things that came down at Babylon to the two angels Harut and Marut, but neither of these two (angles) taught anyone (such things) until they had said: we are only for trial, so don’t disbelieve. And from them (magicians) people learn that through which they would cause separation between a person and his spouse, but they could not thus harm anyone except by Allah’s leave; and they learn that which harms them rather than profits them. And indeed they knew that its practitioner would have no share in the Hereafter. And how bad indeed was that for which they sold their own selves if they but knew” (2:101-2).
“So when they cast, they deceived the people’s eyes and frightened them, and they produced a mighty enchantment.” (7:116).
And (I also seek refuge in God) from the evil of the women blowing on knots (a practice of witchcraft). 113:4
How to protect ourselves from magic?
In Islam, believers are encouraged to seek protection from magic and its harmful effects through a combination of faith, prayer, and specific practices. Here are some ways to protect oneself from magic:
1- Strengthen your faith
Having strong faith in Allah (God) and His power is considered the most important aspect of protection. Believers are encouraged to develop a deep connection with Allah, regularly engage in acts of worship, and seek His guidance and protection.
2- Recite protective verses
The Quran contains verses that are believed to have protective qualities. The most commonly recited protective verses include Ayat al-Kursi (Verse 2:255) and the last three chapters of the Quran (Surahs Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas). These verses can be recited regularly as a means of seeking Allah’s protection.
3- Seek refuge in Allah
Muslims are encouraged to seek refuge in Allah from all forms of harm and evil, including magic. Seeking His protection through supplication (dua) and expressing reliance on Him can provide a sense of security and safeguard against negative influences.
4- Maintain good character and conduct
Leading a righteous and virtuous life is seen as a means of protection. Upholding ethical values, avoiding sinful behavior, and treating others with kindness and respect can strengthen one’s spiritual defenses.
5- Avoid involvement in magic
It is essential to refrain from any involvement in magic, sorcery, or occult practices. Engaging in such activities is considered a major sin in Islam and can open doors to negative influences. Seeking knowledge about the Islamic teachings on magic can help in recognizing and avoiding its deceptive aspects.
6- Embrace the Sunnah
Following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and practicing the teachings of Islam can provide spiritual protection. Embracing the Sunnah (the Prophet’s traditions and way of life) includes performing acts of worship, such as regular prayer, recitation of the Quran, and supplications.
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Why did the Quran warn against witchcraft?
The Quran warns against witchcraft and magic because it is considered a form of deception, disbelief, and harmful manipulation. There are several reasons why the Quran prohibits and warns against witchcraft:
1- Shirk (associating partners with Allah)
Engaging in magic often involves seeking supernatural powers and assistance from beings other than Allah. This goes against the fundamental Islamic belief in the oneness of Allah (Tawheed). It is considered a form of shirk, associating partners with Allah, which is a grave sin in Islam.
2- Deception and manipulation
Magic relies on illusion, trickery, and manipulation to create the appearance of supernatural powers. The Quran emphasizes the importance of honesty, sincerity, and truthfulness, while magic involves deceit and misleading others. It is considered a deceptive practice that can lead people astray and undermine their faith.
3- Undermining Divine Decree
Believing in and practicing magic can lead to a rejection of the Divine Decree (Qadr) in Islam. Muslims believe that everything happens according to the will and plan of Allah. Engaging in magic implies attempting to alter or control the course of events in a way that undermines this belief in Divine Decree.
4- Harmful effects
Magic is believed to have negative and harmful effects on individuals and society. It can cause divisions, discord, and harm to people’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The Quran warns against the harm and evil that can result from engaging in magic.
Read also about: Islamic Fiqh
Magic in the Quran and Sunnah
Magic, known as “sihr” in Arabic, is mentioned in the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). Here are some key points regarding magic in the Quran and Sunnah:
1- Prohibition of Magic
The Quran explicitly prohibits and condemns the practice of magic. It is considered a major sin and a form of disbelief. Muslims are warned against engaging in or seeking the assistance of magicians or sorcerers.
2- Supernatural Abilities of the Prophets
The Quran acknowledges that certain prophets, such as Prophet Moses (Musa) and Prophet Solomon (Sulaiman), were granted extraordinary abilities by Allah. These abilities included the power to perform miracles, which may have appeared as supernatural acts to those witnessing them.
3- Story of Prophet Moses and the Magicians
The Quran recounts the story of Prophet Moses (Musa) and his encounter with the magicians of Pharaoh. The magicians initially challenged Prophet Moses by demonstrating their magical skills, but through the power of Allah, Prophet Moses’ staff transformed into a serpent and ultimately defeated the magicians, leading some of them to embrace Islam.
4- Seeking Protection from Magic
The Sunnah provides guidance on seeking protection from the harms of magic. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught specific supplications (duas) and recitations that believers can use as a means of seeking protection from the influence and effects of magic.
5- Ruqyah (Healing through Quranic Recitation)
The Sunnah encourages the use of ruqyah, which is the recitation of specific verses from the Quran as a means of seeking healing and protection. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself performed ruqyah and taught his companions certain verses to recite for healing purposes.
6- Prohibition of Sorcery and Fortune-telling
In addition to magic, the Quran and Sunnah also prohibit sorcery (performing magic for harmful purposes) and fortune-telling. These practices involve seeking knowledge of the unseen through illegitimate means and are considered acts of deception and disbelief.
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What is the ruling on one who works in magic?
The ruling on one who works in magic is that they are committing a major sin. This is because magic is based on shirk (associating partners with Allah) and kufr (disbelief). It involves seeking the help of jinn and shayateen (devils) to achieve one’s goals, which is a form of shirk. Magic also involves denying Allah’s power and knowledge, which is a form of kufr.
There are many proofs in the Quran and Sunnah that magic is forbidden. For example, Allah says in the Quran:
And they followed [instead] what the devils taught during the reign of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and that which was revealed to the two angels at Babylon, Harut and Marut. But the two angels did not teach anyone until they said, “We are only a trial, so do not disbelieve.” And from them they [i.e., the people] learned how to separate between a man and his wife; but they could not harm anyone except by permission of Allah. And they learned what would harm them and not benefit them. But they certainly knew that whoever bought it [i.e., magic] would have no share in the Hereafter. And how wretched was that for which they sold themselves, if they only knew. (Quran 2:102)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also condemned magic in many hadiths. For example, he said:
Whoever goes to a fortune teller and asks him about something, his prayer will not be accepted for forty nights. (Sahih Muslim)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said:
Magic is shirk. (Musnad Ahmad)
In light of these proofs, it is clear that working in magic is a major sin. If someone is working in magic, they should repent and turn to Allah for forgiveness. They should also stop working in magic immediately. If someone knows that someone else is working in magic, they should advise them to stop and repent. If they refuse to stop, then they should be reported to the authorities so that they can be punished.
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What is the relationship between Sufism and magic in Islam?
The relationship between Sufism and magic in Islam is complex and nuanced. Sufism is a mystical dimension of Islam focused on experiential knowledge, spiritual purification, and attaining closeness to Allah (God). It emphasizes inward devotion, self-discipline, and the purification of the heart.
While Sufism is a recognized and respected spiritual path within Islam, it is important to note that not all practices associated with Sufism align with mainstream Islamic teachings. Some individuals or groups claiming to be Sufis may engage in practices that are considered unorthodox or even prohibited in Islam, including certain mystical rituals, esoteric practices, or the use of supernatural powers.
Historically, there have been instances where individuals claiming to be Sufis have practiced or been associated with magic. These individuals may have incorporated magical rituals, talismans, or the invocation of supernatural forces into their spiritual practices. However, such practices are not representative of mainstream Sufism and are generally considered to be deviations from authentic Islamic teachings.
Authentic Sufism, as recognized by mainstream scholars, emphasizes the pursuit of spiritual purification, adherence to Islamic principles, and following the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. It does not endorse or engage in magic or any practices that contradict Islamic beliefs or ethics.
It is crucial to differentiate between genuine Sufism, which focuses on spiritual development and adherence to Islamic teachings, and any unorthodox practices or deviations that may be erroneously associated with Sufism. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge from reputable sources and consult knowledgeable scholars to understand the true teachings of Sufism and its relationship with Islam.
Read also about: Learn to read Quran
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