Introduction
Have you ever wondered about the unseen world that exists alongside our own? The concept of believing in the Unseen, such as Jinn, is a common belief in Islam and many other religions. Only Allah (SWT) can perceive these phenomena, as the Quran mentions. Allah (SWT) says,
![Surah Al-Hujurat 18]](https://islamicmentors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Surah-Al-Hujurat-18.webp)
The Quran mentions Jinns many times, particularly in Surah Al-Jinn. This Surah provides insight into the world of Jinn, highlighting their acknowledgment of the Quran and their reaction to its divine message. In Surah Al-Jinn, the Jinn express their surprise at the Quran, acknowledging its guidance and confirming their belief in its truth. The chapter highlights the variety among Jinn, some being righteous believers while others follow a path of disbelief.
Who are Jinns?
The concept of Jinn in Islam is one of the most beautiful and intriguing aspects of Islamic theology. The word “Jinn” comes from the Arabic root “j-n-n,” which means hiding or concealing their unseen nature. Like humans, Jinns possess free will, allowing them to choose between good and evil. They live in their societies, some embracing Islam and others rejecting it.
Jinns have the mystical ability to take on various physical forms, including those of humans and animals, although they are hesitant to do so. Despite being able to take different forms, Jinns remain largely invisible to us. It is believed that Allah (SWT) has created them in a way that humans cannot see them, but they can see us. Jinns can move at great speeds and travel vast distances almost instantaneously.
Creation of Jinn
According to Islamic teachings, Allah (SWT) created Jinn from smokeless, scorching fire, as highlighted in the Quran.
Hazrat Aishah (RA) narrated that:
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Angels were created from light, jinns were created from a smokeless flame of fire, and ‘Adam was created from that which you have been told (i.e., sounding clay like the clay of pottery).”
[Riyad as-Salihin, 1846]
This unique origin differentiates them from humans, who were created from clay, and angels, who were created from light.
The Different Types of Jinns
In Islamic literature, there are different types of jinn, each with distinct characteristics and abilities. Here’s a breakdown of the commonly recognized types of jinn:
- Marid: Marid jinns are often considered the most powerful and disobedient of all jinns. They are associated with the sea and are known for their great strength.
- Ifrit: Ifrits are a challenging and cruel type of jinn, often linked to the underworld. Described as giant and threatening, they are recognized for their strength and fiery nature.
- Ghoul: Ghouls are known for their shapeshifting abilities and particularly for their ability to transform into animals like hyenas or other desert creatures.
- Vetala: Vetalas are ghostly beings that inhabit remains, often used to animate dead bodies. They are recognized for their strange, undead nature.
- Qareen: A Qareen is a personal jinn companion assigned to every human being. While the Qareen is generally evil and tries to tease its human partner, it can be stopped and controlled towards good.
- Shayateen (Demons): Evil jinn follow Iblis (Satan) and dedicate themselves to causing harm and leading humans astray. Iblis was originally a righteous worshipper of Allah (SWT), but he became prideful and refused to bow to Adam when Allah (SWT) commanded him. Iblis was cast out of heaven, but he was granted respite until the Day of Judgment to lead humans astray.
If you want to learn more about Shaitan and how to get rid of it, read our blog in which we describe 15 Ways To Defeat Shaitan.
Kings of Jinns in Islam
The concept of the seven kings of jinn in Islam is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran or Hadith, but it appears in Islamic folklore and mysticism. Each of these kings is believed to govern different regions and elements, each with unique characteristics and powers.
Highlighting Names and Domains of These Rulers
- Al-Mudhib: Al-Mudhib is often considered the king of Jinn, who is associated with fire.
- Al-Ahmar: Al-Ahmar, also known as the Red King, is associated with the planet Mars and is often linked with war and conflict.
- Barqan: Barqan is the king associated with lightning and thunder. He rules over Jinn, who is connected to storms and powerful natural forces.
- Shamhurish: Shamhurish is considered the king of Jinn and is associated with justice and law.
- Al-Zawba’a: Al-Zawba’a governs the jinn associated with the wind and whirlwinds. Moreover, these jinn inhabit the air and are linked to sudden and violent windstorms.
- Al-Malik Al-Aswad: The Black King, ruling over the jinn of darkness and night. His domain is the shadowy and unseen parts of the world.
- Maymun (Maimun): Maymun is the king associated with wealth and prosperity. He governs jinns, who are connected to riches, material success, and good fortune.
The Purpose and Role of Jinns in Islam
The Quran and Hadith provide insights into the purpose and roles of jinn in the universe, reflecting their significance in Islamic belief. The primary purpose of the creation of jinn, similar to that of humans, is to worship Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
This verse highlights that jinn are accountable for their actions and will be judged by Allah (SWT) on the Day of Judgment, just like humans.
The role of jinn as servants of Allah (SWT)
Jinns are expected to engage in acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and other religious duties, similar to humans. Some jinn, especially those who follow Iblis (Satan), test and tempt humans to stray from the path of righteousness. Consequently, they serve as a means of trial and difficulty in the world.
Conversion in Islam of Jinn
In Islam, there is a well-known story about jinn converting to Islam. It involves a group of jinn from the town of Nasibin, located in present-day Turkey, and is referenced in the Quran in Surah Al-Jinn.
This jinn overheard the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) reciting the Quran during his journey to Ta’if. They were moved by its beauty and truth, and as a result, they accepted Islam and returned to their community to spread the message of monotheism.
The Jinn and the Sons of Adam
The relationship between humans and jinn is one of the most intriguing aspects of Islam. Both are created beings with free will and are held accountable for their deeds in the eyes of Allah (SWT).
Hazrat Abu Tha’labah al-Khushani (RA) narrated a notable Hadith that sheds light on the closeness between humans and jinn. Additionally, this Hadith reveals their unseen interactions. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“There is none amongst you with whom is not an attache from amongst the jinn (devil). They (the Companions) said: Allah’s Messenger, with you too? Thereupon he said: Yes, but Allah helps me against him and so I am safe from his hand and he does not command me but for good.”
[Sahih Muslim 2814a]
Life of Jinns: Food, Drink, and Living
Food: According to Islamic tradition, jinns consume the remains of food left by humans, particularly bones and dung.
Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA) Narrated that:
Once, he was in the company of the Prophet (SAW) carrying a water pot for his ablution and for cleaning his private parts. While he was following him carrying it (i.e. the pot), the Prophet (SAW) said, “Who is this?” He said, “I am Abu Huraira.” The Prophet (SAW) said, “Bring me stones in order to clean my private parts, and do not bring any bones or animal dung.” Abu Huraira went on narrating: So I brought some stones, carrying them in the corner of my robe till I put them by his side and went away. When he finished, I walked with him and asked, “What about the bone and the animal dung?” He said, “They are of the food of Jinns. The delegate of Jinns of (the city of) Nasibin came to me–and how nice those Jinns were–and asked me for the remains of the human food. I invoked Allah for them that they would never pass by a bone or animal dung but find food on them.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 3860]
Drink: Jinns are believed to consume human food and drink, particularly when it’s left uncovered or when the name of Allah (SWT) is not mentioned before eating or drinking. Therefore, it’s advised to say “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah Almighty) before consuming food or drink and to cover them when unattended. Doing so is thought to prevent jinns from sharing in human meals.
Living Places (Remote and Desolate Areas): They prefer to inhabit remote and uninhabited places such as deserts, ruins, and caves. These areas are dark, quiet, and away from human activity.
Water Sources: Some jinns live near water sources such as wells, rivers, and seas. They are known to inhabit places like bathrooms and toilets, which is why Muslims recite specific prayers before entering such areas to seek protection from any harm.
Shared Spaces with Humans: While jinns live in a parallel domain, they can sometimes share living spaces with humans, especially if humans are unaware of their presence. If the jinn feels threatened or disturbed, this can lead to disturbances or strange occurrences.
Protection and Safety
In Islamic teachings, several practices and supplications are recommended to protect oneself from the harm of jinn in Islam.
Ayat-ul-Kursi: Ayat-ul-Kursi is a powerful verse known for its protective qualities, especially against jinn. It is recommended to recite this verse daily, particularly before sleeping and after prayers.
Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas: Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas, also known as the Mu’awwidhat, are two chapters recited to protect against evil and harmful influences, including jinn.
Surah Al-Baqarah: Regular recitation of Surah Al-Baqarah, especially in the home, is highly effective in keeping jinn away.
Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA) narrated that:
The Prophet (SAW) said, “Do not make your houses as graveyards. Satan runs away from the house where Surah Baqara is recited.”
[Sahih Muslim 780]
Dua for Protection in General
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the myth of the jinn?
The mystical power of jinn has been mentioned before. In folklore, jinn are believed to have the ability to take on human or animal form. They are said to reside in various inanimate objects like stones, trees, and ruins, as well as underground, in the air, and within fire.
Q2. Who is the father of jinn?
In Islamic tradition, the first jinn created by Allah (SWT) was Iblis. After his disobedience, he became known as Satan. He is often considered the “father” of the jinn, although all jinn are individual creations of Allah (SWT).
Q3. Can Muslims marry Jinn?
Islamic teachings generally discourage the idea of humans marrying jinn, as it can lead to complications and is considered unnatural.
Q4. Who is the first jinn in the World?
The first jinn mentioned in Islamic tradition is Iblis.
Q5. What are the colours of jinns?
Jinns remain typically invisible to humans, so their colours are not much discussed in Islamic teachings.
Q6. Which Prophet (SAW) talked to jinns?
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is known to have communicated with jinn, as mentioned in Surah Al-Jinn.
Q7. When did Jinn first hear the Quran?
Jinn first heard the Quran during the time of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Q8. Is Iblis a jinn or angel in Islam?
Iblis is a jinn, not an angel.
Q9. How do you see jinn in Islam?
Islam does not encourage seeking out jinn, as it can lead to harmful consequences.
Q10. Can jinns possess people in Islam?
Yes, there are accounts of jinn possession. However, Islam provides ways to exorcise them through specific prayers and rituals known as Ruqyah.
Q11. How to pronounce jinn?
The word “jinn” is pronounced as “jin,” with a soft “j” sound similar to the word “gin.”
Q12. What are the powers of the jinn Ifrit?
Ifrits are considered to be some of the most powerful jinn. They are known for their immense strength, cunning, and ability to perform supernatural feats.
Q13. Who is the red king of the jinn?
Al-Ahmar, also known as the Red King, is associated with the planet Mars and is often linked with war and conflict. These titles often come from cultural stories rather than religious texts and do not have a basis in the Quran or Hadith.
Q14. How to see jinn in Islam?
Islam does not encourage seeing out jinn, as it can lead to harmful consequences.
Q15. Can jinns possess people in Islam?
In Islamic tradition, it is acknowledged that jinn can possess humans, although this is considered to be irregular.
Q16. Are jinns dangerous in Islam?
Jinn, like humans, has free will and can choose to do good or evil. Some jinn may be harmful, especially if they follow the path of Iblis, but others may live peacefully without causing harm.
Q17. Can cats and dogs see Jinn in Islam?
Islamic tradition suggests that animals, especially cats and dogs, may sense the presence of jinn. However, this is more of a cultural belief and is not explicitly stated in the Quran or Hadith.
