Sihr
In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.
Answer
In “Al Qamus”, the word sihr (magic) signifies an effect the cause of which is not apparent, whether the cause may actually lie in something, which possesses a luminous quality, or in things with an extra-sensory reality.
In the terminology of the Holy Qur’an and Ahadith, it refers to all those usual happenings, which have been brought about with the active help of the devils, won over through certain practises likely to please them. There are several ways of pleasing the devils. Sometimes one sings the praises of the devils, and sometimes recite formulas of a heretical nature, which deny Allah or associate others with him. The worship of stars and planets too gladdens their hearts as do evil deeds – for example, preparing a charm with the blood of a person killed unlawfully, or refusing to adopt the prescribed modes of purifying one’s body or living constantly and deliberately in a state of uncleanliness and impurity. (Maariful Qur’an p.269 v.1)
The best dua to read to protect oneself from sihr and magic is to read Surah Ikhlas and the Muawazatain (Surah Falaq and Surah Naas). Imam Ibn Kathir (RA) narrates a lengthy hadith on the authority of Abu Dawud, Tirimizi and Nasai that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam said; “Anyone who recites Surah Ikhlas and the Muwazatain morning and evening, they shall be sufficient for him.” In another narration it says “They will suffice him against every affliction.” (Maariful Qur’an p.915 v.8)
Only Allah Knows Best
Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham.
