What is Ruqyah in Islam?
In Islam, Ruqyah is the practice of seeking protection and healing from Allah (SWT) by reciting specific Quranic verses and making supplications (dua). Ruqyah (pronounced “rook-ya”) is an Arabic word meaning “Healing Prayer.” It is believed to help with issues such as illness, protection from evil spirits (jinn), and counteracting magic. Muslims turn to Ruqyah as a means of connecting with Allah (SWT) for safety, peace, and healing, whether the problem is physical, mental, or spiritual.
In essence, Ruqyah is calling upon Allah’s (SWT) power to protect and heal from unseen and unknown harms, such as spiritual afflictions or harmful magic, reinforcing the belief in His divine protection.
The Two Types of Ruqyah
There are two main types of Ruqyah in Islam:
Ruqyah Shariah
This is the correct and permitted way to perform Ruqyah. It involves reciting verses from the Quran, using authentic duas, and relying solely on Allah (SWT) for protection and healing. This method follows the example set by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is widely practiced by Muslims today.
Ruqyah Ghayr Shariah
This method is not allowed in Islam. It involves forbidden practices, such as invoking spirits, using charms or amulets, and performing rituals that contradict Islamic teachings. These practices often involve shirk (associating partners with Allah (SWT)), which is strictly forbidden in Islam.
Is Ruqyah Halal or Haram?
A common question people ask is whether Ruqyah is halal (allowed) or haram (forbidden) in Islam. The good news is that Ruqyah is halal and permitted as long as it is done correctly. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself performed Ruqyah and encouraged his followers to do so.
Hazrat Aisha (RA) narrated that:
Whenever Allah’s Messenger (SAW) became sick, He (SAW) would recite Mu’awwidhat (Surat Al-Falaq and Surat An-Nas) and then blow his breath over his body. When He (SAW) became seriously ill, I used to recite (these two Suras) and rub his hands over his body, hoping for its blessings. [Sahih al-Bukhari 5016]
Hazrat Abu Sa’id (RA) narrated that:
A group of the companions of Allah’s Messenger (SAW) proceeded on a journey till they dismounted near one of the Arab tribes and requested them to entertain them as their guests, but they (the tribe people) refused to entertain them. Then the chief of that tribe was bitten by a snake (or stung by a scorpion) and he was given all sorts of treatment, but all in vain. Some of them said, “Will you go to the group (those travelers) who have dismounted near you and see if one of them has something useful?” They came to them and said, “O the group! Our leader has been bitten by a snake (or stung by a scorpion) and we have treated him with everything but nothing benefited him Has anyone of you anything useful?” One of them replied, “Yes, by Allah (SWT), I know how to treat with a Ruqya. But. by Allah Almighty, we wanted you to receive us as your guests but you refused. I will not treat your patient with a Ruqya till you fix for us something as wages.” Consequently, they agreed to give those travelers a flock of sheep. The man went with them (the people of the tribe) and started spitting (on the bite) and reciting Surat-al-Fatiha till the patient was healed and started walking as if he had not been sick. When the tribe people paid them the wages they had agreed upon, some of them (the Prophet’s companions) said, “Distribute (the sheep).” But the one who treated with the Ruqya said, “Do not do that till we go to Allah Almighty’s Apostle and mention to him what has happened, and see what he will order us.” So they came to Allah’s Messenger (SAW) and mentioned the story to him and he said, “How do you know that Surat-al-Fatiha is a Ruqya? You have done the right thing. Divide (what you have got) and assign for me a share with you.” [Sahih al-Bukhari 5749]
This hadith shows the power of Quranic verses for Ruqyah and affirms that the Prophet (PBUH) permitted accepting rewards for performing it. It shows that using the Quran for Ruqyah is both allowed and effective.
However, if someone uses forbidden methods—such as chanting strange words, calling on spirits, using amulets, or practicing magic—then that Ruqyah becomes haram. This is because Islam teaches that we should place our trust solely in Allah (SWT) for healing and protection, and not in objects, magic, or other entities.
How to Perform Ruqyah: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we know Ruqyah is allowed let’s learn how to perform it properly. Ruqyah isn’t difficult but must be done with sincerity and faith. Below are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Make the Right Intention (Niyyah)
Before performing Ruqyah, start by clearing your niyyah (intention) in your heart. It is essential to remind yourself that you are performing this Ruqyah to seek protection, healing, or help from Allah (SWT) alone. The intention shows that you rely on Allah (SWT) to solve your problems, not on anything or anyone else.
For example, if you are feeling unwell or believe you are affected by the evil eye, make the intention in your heart that you are asking Allah (SWT) for healing and protection.
Step 2: Have Conviction (Yaqin)
After setting your intention, you must have complete conviction that Allah (SWT) will help you. Faith in Allah’s (SWT) power is essential in performing Ruqyah. If you perform Ruqyah without fully believing in its effectiveness, it may not work as intended due to the weakness in your faith.
Therefore, have full confidence that Allah’s (SWT) words hold healing power and that He (SWT) alone can protect you from all harm. This strong belief is key to making Ruqyah successful.
Step 3: Be Patient and Consistent
Ruqyah is not always an instant cure; sometimes, it takes time to feel its effects. This is why patience is crucial. Whether you’re performing Ruqyah for healing or protection, it’s important to do so regularly and with consistency. Keep reciting the verses and making dua daily, even if you don’t see immediate results. Trust that Allah (SWT) knows what is best for you and will provide help at the right time.
Step 4: Recite Quranic Verses for Ruqyah
Certain Quranic verses and duas are particularly powerful for protection and healing during Ruqyah from the evil eye. These are the main verses recommended for recitation:
- Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening): This is one of the most powerful surahs in the Quran and is often called the “healing surah.” Muslims believe that reciting Surah Al-Fatiha can cure many illnesses and protect against harm.
- Surah Al-Falaq: This surah seeks Allah’s (SWT) protection from the evils of the world, including magic and jealousy. It is particularly effective for those affected by the evil eye or black magic.
- Surah An-Nas: This surah asks for refuge from Satan’s whispers and harmful jinn. It is often recited alongside Surah Al-Falaq for complete protection.
- Surah Ikhlas (The Purity): Reciting this surah reaffirms Allah’s (SWT) oneness and supreme power, which is essential when seeking His protection.
- Ayatul Kursi (The Throne Verse, from Surah Baqarah 2:255): This verse is one of the most powerful in the Quran. It declares Allah’s authority over everything in the heavens and the earth. Ayatul Kursi is often recited to protect against all harm.
- Surah Al-A’raf (7:106-122): These verses tell the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) overcoming the magic of Pharaoh’s magicians. They are commonly recited for protection against black magic.
- Surah Taha (20:65-69): These verses describe Prophet Musa’s (AS) victory over the magicians of Pharaoh, and they are useful for countering magic and oppression.
- Surah Al-Kafirun: This surah is recited to separate oneself from evil and those who follow false beliefs, making it a good choice for Ruqyah.
When reciting these verses, take your time, reflect on the meaning of the words, and maintain full faith in Allah’s (SWT) power to protect and heal.
Step 5: Dua for Protection from the Evil Eye
In addition to reciting Quranic verses, you should make dua during Ruqyah from the protection of evil eyes. You ask Allah (SWT) for help, protection, or healing when making dua. You can use specific duas from the Quran and Sunnah or make your dua from your heart.
In addition to reciting Quranic verses, making dua during Ruqyah for protection from the evil eye is essential. Dua is your way of asking Allah (SWT) for help, protection, or healing. You can recite specific duas from the Quran and Sunnah or make a heartfelt dua of your own. Here is essential duas for protection from the evil eyes:
Another dua for protection from the evil eye:
The key is to speak to Allah (SWT) with sincerity and humility, asking for His mercy, protection, and guidance.
Step 6: Blow on the Hands and Wipe Over the Body
After finishing the recitation of Quranic verses and making dua, the final step in Ruqyah is to blow on your hands and wipe them over your body. This practice is part of the Sunnah taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Here’s how to perform it:
- After reciting the verses, bring your hands close to your mouth.
- Blow gently into your hands, allowing a small amount of saliva to mix with your breath.
- Wipe your hands over the areas of your body that need healing or protection. If performing Ruqyah for general protection, you can wipe your hands over your entire body.
This step can also be performed for others, such as your children, by blowing into your hands and then wiping over their bodies to offer protection.
Benefits of Ruqyah
Performing Ruqyah is not just a form of spiritual healing. It also offers many additional benefits that can enhance both your physical and mental well-being. Here are some key benefits of practicing Ruqyah:
Protection from Evil
Ruqyah serves as a protective barrier against harmful forces like black magic, jinn, and the evil eye. Regular recitation of Quranic verses during Ruqyah acts as a shield, guarding you from all forms of harm, whether visible or unseen.
Healing
Ruqyah is not limited to spiritual issues; it can also provide relief for physical ailments such as headaches, body pain, and even emotional struggles like anxiety or sadness. Many people find comfort and relief from chronic illnesses by performing Ruqyah consistently. The blessings of Allah’s (SWT) words promote healing and bring peace to both the body and soul.
Spiritual Cleansing
Ruqyah also helps cleanse your heart and soul from impurities. The recitation of the Quran purifies you from negative thoughts, bad habits, and evil influences. It strengthens your connection with Allah (SWT), helping you stay on the right path and avoid sinful behavior. This spiritual cleansing brings you closer to Allah (SWT) and keeps your faith strong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ruqyah
Yes, Ruqyah is allowed and even encouraged in Islam, as long as it follows the correct methods we discussed in detail earlier.
Yes, you can perform Ruqyah on yourself. It is encouraged. Self-Ruqyah is a way to take control of your spiritual well-being and ask Allah (Swt) for help directly. Many scholars recommend performing Ruqyah on yourself regularly to protect against harm and to keep your faith strong.
Anyone can perform Ruqyah as long as they have the right intention and a strong belief in Allah’s (SWT) power. You do not need to be a religious scholar or possess special skills to practice Ruqyah. However, in cases of severe issues, such as jinn possession or serious black magic, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from someone experienced in Ruqyah for additional support.
There is no fixed time for how long Ruqyah should be recited or listened to. It depends on the situation and the severity of the problem. Some people do it for a few minutes daily, while others might repeat the verses for hours or over several days. The most important thing is to stay consistent and keep your faith strong. Remember, healing and protection come from Allah (SWT), so trust that He will help you at the right time.
Conclusion
Ruqyah is a powerful means of seeking healing, protection, and spiritual cleansing in Islam. Rooted in the Quran and Sunnah, it allows believers to turn to Allah (SWT) for relief from both physical and spiritual distress while strengthening their faith and connection to the Divine. Whether you seek protection from unseen forces or not, Ruqyah is a profound reminder of Allah’s (SWT) mercy and power in our lives.
If you feel spiritually or physically burdened, consider incorporating Ruqyah into your daily routine. Recite the prescribed verses, seek Allah’s (SWT) guidance, and remember that healing comes only from Him. Share the practice with loved ones, and build a protective shield of faith together. May Allah (SWT) grant you Peace, healing, and protection.
Let Ruqyah be your shield—adopt it today!
