Magic (Sihr) and sorcery are practices shrouded in mystery and fear, often associated with illusions, deception, and attempts to manipulate reality. Islam unequivocally condemns Sihr, considering it a major sin and a destructive tool that leads to spiritual, social, and moral corruption. This article explores the Islamic perspective on Sihr, the consequences of engaging in it, and the steps to protect oneself from its harm.
What is Sihr (Magic)?
Sihr, in Islamic terminology, refers to supernatural acts that involve deceit, illusions, or invoking help from evil forces such as jinn or shayateen (devils). Sihr can take various forms, including:
- Black Magic: Harmful spells intended to cause physical or psychological harm.
- Love Spells: Manipulations to create unnatural love or attraction between individuals.
- Divination and Fortune-Telling: Practices that claim to predict the future through supernatural means.
- Illusions: Tricks that deceive people into seeing things that do not exist.
These acts are rooted in shirk (associating partners with Allah) because they often rely on invoking entities other than Allah for assistance.
Islamic Evidence Against Sihr
Prohibition in the Quran:
Allah explicitly forbids Sihr in several verses of the Quran. One of the most prominent references is in Surah Al-Baqarah:
“They followed what the devils gave out (falsely of the magic) in the lifetime of Solomon. Solomon did not disbelieve, but the devils disbelieved, teaching men magic…”
(Quran 2:102)
This verse clarifies that magic is a deception taught by devils and not a divine gift.
Condemnation in Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) warned against magic and its devastating consequences:
“Avoid the seven destructive sins.” It was said: “What are they, O Messenger of Allah?” He said: “Associating others with Allah, magic, killing a soul whom Allah has forbidden killing except in a just cause…”
(Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
Here, Sihr is listed among the gravest sins alongside shirk and murder.
READ MORE: The World Of Jinn (Genies) And Their Secret Action
Curses Upon Magicians:
Practicing Sihr takes a person out of the fold of Islam, as they rely on forbidden practices and entities. Allah states:
“But the magician will never be successful, no matter whatever amount of skill he may attain.”
(Quran 20:69)
Why Sihr is Prohibited
- Undermines Tawhid (Monotheism):
Sihr often involves seeking help from jinn or devils, which is a form of shirk. This contradicts the central Islamic belief in Allah’s Oneness. - Harms Others:
Magic is frequently used to harm individuals, disrupt families, or create chaos in society, violating the principles of justice and mercy in Islam. - Leads to Kufr (Disbelief):
Engaging in Sihr distances a person from Allah and may lead them to outright disbelief. - Fosters Fear and Superstition:
It creates an atmosphere of fear and weakens people’s trust in Allah’s power and decree.
Punishment for Practicing Sihr
Islam prescribes severe consequences for those who practice or promote Sihr. In Islamic law, the punishment for a confirmed magician may range from repentance to capital punishment, depending on the harm caused and the legal ruling in a specific context.
The Prophet (ﷺ) is reported to have said:
“The punishment of the magician is that he be executed.”
(Reported by Tirmidhi and Ahmad)
This punishment serves as a deterrent to protect the community from the devastating effects of magic.
Protection Against Sihr
Strengthening Faith (Tawhid):
Developing a strong connection with Allah and relying solely on Him for all needs and protection is the best defense.
Reciting Quranic Verses and Supplications:
Several verses and duas are effective against Sihr, including:
- Surah Al-Falaq (113) and Surah An-Nas (114): Seeking refuge in Allah from harm.
- Ayat-ul-Kursi (2:255): Known for its protective power.
- Recitation of Surah Al-Baqarah regularly, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The house in which Surah Al-Baqarah is recited is not approached by Shaytan.” (Sahih Muslim)
Avoiding Fortune-Tellers and Magicians:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever goes to a fortune-teller and believes what he says has disbelieved in what was revealed to Muhammad.”
(Ahmad)
Seeking Ruqyah (Spiritual Healing):
Ruqyah involves reciting Quranic verses and duas to seek Allah’s protection and cure from Sihr. It is a Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) and a recommended practice for combating magic.
Charity and Sadaqah:
Giving in charity is a means to gain Allah’s blessings and protection from harm.
Key Takeaways
- Sihr (magic) is a major sin in Islam, leading to spiritual and social destruction.
- Practicing or seeking Sihr is a form of shirk and distances one from Allah’s mercy.
- The Quran and Sunnah provide clear guidance on avoiding and combating the harm of magic.
- Recitation of protective Quranic verses, maintaining a strong connection with Allah, and seeking Ruqyah are essential defenses.
- Sihr is not only a personal sin but also a societal evil that must be eradicated for the well-being of the community.
Conclusion
Magic and sorcery are grave offenses in Islam that undermine the principles of tawhid and justice. Muslims are urged to steer clear of such practices and rely solely on Allah for guidance and protection. By adhering to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, believers can safeguard themselves from the harms of Sihr and strengthen their faith in Allah’s supreme power and mercy.
