Black Magic in Islam: History, Punishment, and Healing Methods

Magic in Islam – Introduction

In Islam, magic is considered a real but harmful practice. The concept of magic in Islam covers different forms, among its forms, black magic (sihr) is considered the most dangerous. Black magic involves using supernatural forces to harm others, and Islam strictly forbids it. Engaging in magic, especially black magic, is often associated with disbelief (kufr) because it involves seeking help from evil forces, such as jinn.

Want to learn more about jinn in Islam? Dive into our latest blog, The World of Jinn: An Islamic Perspective on Their Nature and Role, for an in-depth exploration of their existence and influence.

Although magic may impact people differently, Islam teaches that nothing can happen without Allah’s (SWT) will. Therefore, magic holds no power over a believer’s faith in Allah (SWT). The religion advises us to stay far away from any magic, whether for good or bad purposes.

Magic in Quranic Verses

The Quran discusses magic in several places, highlighting its presence and dangers. Some key verses about magic include:

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (SWT) mentions that He sent the angels Harut and Marut to teach magic as a test for the people. The angels warned the people that magic was a trial and they should not use it. However, some people learned it to cause harm, particularly by creating conflict between married couples.

In Surah Taha, the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the magicians of Firaun (Pharaoh) is mentioned. The magicians used tricks, but with Allah’s (SWT) help, Musa’s staff turned into a real serpent, revealing the falsehood of their magic:

These verses emphasize that magic, while real, is powerless against Allah’s (SWT) will. Although magic can harm, Allah’s (SWT) mercy and power protect those who seek refuge in Him. The Quran reminds us that turning to Allah (SWT) is the ultimate defense against any form of magic.

History of Black Magic in Islam

The history of black magic in Islam dates back to ancient civilizations, such as Babylon and Egypt. Magic deeply rooted itself in the practice of seeking help from Jinn and other supernatural beings. Islamic teachings point to black magic as a prevalent practice in these societies.

Throughout Islamic history, magic has always been linked to disbelief (kufr) and seen as a path toward evil. Even during the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), certain groups practiced magic, but the Prophet (SAW) firmly rejected it. He taught his followers to rely solely on Allah (SWT) and not to seek help from jinn or engage in practices like fortune-telling, which often involved magic.

An important event in Hadith literature mentions that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was once affected by black magic. A Jewish man named Labid ibn al-A’sam cast a spell on the Prophet, causing him to feel unwell. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) cured himself of the effects of the magic through divine revelation. Additionally, he recited Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Naas for further healing. This event emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah’s (SWT) protection and healing from magic.

Hazrat Aisha (RA) narrated that:

Magic was worked on Allah’s Messenger (SAW) so that he used to think that he had sexual relations with his wives while he actually had not (Sufyan said: That is the hardest kind of magic as it has such an effect). Then one day He (SAW) said, “O `Aisha do you know that Allah (SWT) has instructed me concerning the matter I asked Him about? Two men came to me and one of them sat near my head and the other sat near my feet. The one near my head asked the other. What is wrong with this man?’ The latter replied that is under the effect of magic The first one asked, Who has worked magic on him?’ The other replied Labid bin Al-A’sam, a man from Bani Zuraiq who was an ally of the Jews and was a hypocrite.’ The first one asked, What material did he use)?’ The other replied, ‘A comb and the hair stuck to it.’ The first one asked, ‘Where (is that)?’ The other replied. ‘In a skin of pollen of a male date palm tree kept under a stone in the well of Dharwan’ ” So the Prophet (SAW) went to that well and took out those things and said: “That was the well which was shown to me (in a dream) Its water looked like the infusion of Henna leaves and its date-palm trees looked like the heads of devils.” The Prophet (PBUM) added, “Then that thing was taken out’ I said (to the Prophet (SAW) ) “Why do you not treat yourself with Nashra?” He said, “Allah Almighty has cured me; I dislike to let evil spread among my people.” [Sahih al-Bukhari 5765]

Signs of Black Magic

The symptoms of black magic can manifest in various ways, often affecting a person’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Here are some common signs that may indicate a person is under the influence of black magic:

1. Physical Symptoms: Unexplained illnesses, extreme fatigue, weight loss, or sudden, unidentifiable pain in the body.
2. Mental Symptoms: Severe depression, anxiety, constant fear, or hearing strange voices that others cannot hear.
3. Behavioral Changes: Sudden shifts in personality, including anger, aggression, or isolating oneself from family and friends.
4. Nightmares: Frequent, disturbing dreams, often involving snakes, dark figures, or frightening places.
5. Marital Issues: Unexplainable conflicts between spouses, which may lead to constant arguing or even separation.
6. Loss of Wealth or Job: Continuous financial problems, unexpected losses, or an inability to keep a stable job despite efforts.

These signs alone do not confirm black magic. However, when several signs appear together, one should seek help through Islamic practices, such as reciting protective prayers (duas) and consulting knowledgeable scholars.

Performing Black Magic: Forbidden Acts

Performing black magic is a grave sin in Islam. Moreover, it involves engaging in forbidden acts, such as invoking jinn or performing rituals that directly contradict Islamic teachings. Black magic is typically carried out with harmful intentions, including:

1. Destroying relationships: Casting spells to cause conflict between spouses or break up marriages.
2. Financial harm: Magic aimed at bringing poverty, destroying someone’s business, or causing financial ruin.
3. Illness or death: Magic used to inflict sickness or, in extreme cases, lead to someone’s death.
4. Possession: Using jinn to haunt or possess a person, causing them physical and mental harm.

Methods Used in Black Magic

Black magic often involves specific rituals that use evil forces, including:

1. Personal items: Using hair, nails, or clothing from the intended victim in dark rituals.
2. Sacrifices: Offering animals or other objects in occult rituals.
3. Written spells: Write down incantations or evil words to recite during rituals.

In all cases, black magic relies on the involvement of jinn or evil forces, which Islam strictly forbids. Scholars consider those who practice it to have fallen into disbelief (kufr). This is because they seek power from sources other than Allah (SWT).

Dealing with Black Magic in Islam

In Islam, dealing with black magic requires turning to Allah (SWT) and seeking protection through faith and prayer. Here are some Islamic remedies for combating the effects of black magic:

Reciting Quranic Verses

The Quran provides powerful protection against evil, and specific chapters are particularly effective in dealing with black magic. Surah Al-Baqarah, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Naas are commonly recited to seek refuge from harm. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended reciting these chapters regularly for protection.

Ruqyah (Islamic Healing)

Ruqyah involves reciting specific Quranic verses and duas (supplications) over the person affected by black magic. The individual or a knowledgeable imam can perform it. Ruqyah seeks Allah’s (SWT) help in removing the effects of black magic.

Ayat-ul-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:255)

The recitation of Ayat-ul-Kursi is highly effective in rejecting evil. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that an angel will protect from harm whoever recites this verse before sleeping. This verse is a powerful shield against black magic and other harmful forces.

Learn how Ayat-ul-Kursi can bring peace, protection, and blessings. Discover its benefits in our blog post-Ayat-ul-Kursi-And its Benefits.

Daily Du’as for Protection

Regular supplications (duas) for protection are essential in safeguarding oneself from harm. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended several daily duas, including this powerful invocation:

In the name of Allah Almighty, with whose name nothing can cause harm on earth or in the heavens, and He is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

Avoid Sin

Sins weaken a person’s faith, making them more vulnerable to the effects of magic. By avoiding sin and following the path of righteousness, one strengthens their spiritual protection against black magic and other forms of harm. These methods provide spiritual strength and help protect us from the harmful effects of black magic.

Duration and End of Black Magic

The effects of black magic, although harmful, are not permanent. Spiritual means and Allah’s (SWT) mercy can break black magic and bring it to an end. The duration of black magic varies and depends on several factors:

1. Intensity of the Spell: Stronger spells may last longer; however, consistent prayer and ruqyah can gradually neutralize the effects of the magic.
2. Healing through Islamic Practices: Regular recitation of protective verses, and duas, and seeking Allah’s (SWT) help through prayer can diminish the magic’s power and eventually bring it to an end.

It is crucial to maintain patience and trust in Allah (SWT) when dealing with black magic, as the healing process may take time.

Punishment for Black Magic in Islam

The punishment for practicing black magic in Islam is severe, as it is considered an act of shirk (associating partners with Allah Almighty) and (disbelief). The consequences of black magic can vary, but they generally include:

1. Legal Punishment: In some Islamic countries, practicing magic is classified as a crime. The punishment can be severe, including capital punishment, depending on the gravity of the offense and its impact.
2. Spiritual Consequences: Practicing black magic takes a person out of the fold of Islam, as it is an act of disbelief (kufr). Such individuals risk losing their faith and face eternal consequences in the afterlife if they do not repent.

Hazrat Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that:

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Avoid the seven sins that doom one to Hell.” It was said: “O Messenger of Allah (SAW), what are they?” He said: “Associating others with Allah (Shirk), magic, killing a soul whom Allah has forbidden killing, except in cases dictated by Islamic law, consuming Riba, consuming the property of orphans, fleeing on the day of the march (to the battlefield), and slandering chaste women who never even think of anything touching their chastity and are good believers.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i 3671)

Islamic law strongly condemns black magic, emphasizing its dangerous and harmful nature. It ensures that those who engage in such practices are held accountable.

Reversing Black Magic in Islam

Reversing black magic is possible in Islam through spiritual means. You can also apply the same remedies used to cure black magic to reverse its effects. However, it is crucial to remember that Islam does not permit seeking revenge or using magic in retaliation. Instead, Muslims should place their trust in Allah (SWT) and follow the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah for protection and healing.

FAQs about Magic in Islam

Conclusion: Trust in Allah’s (SWT) Power

Islam recognizes magic as a serious threat to one’s faith, mental state, and well-being. While its existence is acknowledged, the power of magic is insignificant compared to the absolute authority of Allah (SWT). As Muslims, we must place our full trust in Allah (SWT), knowing that no harm can occur without His permission. By seeking refuge in His protection through prayer, righteous deeds, and adherence to the Quran and Sunnah, we protect ourselves from any evil, confident that Allah (SWT) is the ultimate protector and healer.

As Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:

“And those who fear Allah (SWT)— He will make for them a way out and provide for them from where they do not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah Almighty— then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah (SWT) will accomplish His purpose.” (Surah At-Talaq 2-3)