THE RULING ON THE EVIL EYE IN ISLAM

Islam acknowledges the reality of the evil eye (Al-‘Ayn) and treats it as a matter supported by authentic evidence from the Qur’ān and the Sunnah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) clearly affirmed this reality when he said: “The evil eye is true.” This statement alone establishes that the evil eye is not superstition or imagination, but a real phenomenon that can affect a person by the permission of Allah.

The Sunnah further explains the effects of the evil eye. The Prophet (pbuh) once saw a slave girl with a discolored part of her face and immediately recognized the cause, saying: “Give her Ruqyah; she has been given an evil eye.” This narration proves that the evil eye can cause physical harm and visible symptoms, and that Islam provides a lawful spiritual cure for it. Ruqyah, when performed with Qur’ānic verses and authentic supplications, is a legitimate means of treatment.

Ummul-Mu’minīn ʿĀ’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet (pbuh) ordered Ruqyah to be used as protection against the evil eye. This command highlights the permissibility and importance of seeking treatment through lawful Islamic means. In another hadith, the Prophet (pbuh) clarified that Ruqyah should only be used against the evil eye or fever, indicating its specific and guided use within the boundaries of Islamic teachings.

Despite its reality, Islam emphasizes that the evil eye has no independent power. It can neither harm nor benefit anyone except by the will and permission of Allah. This protects the believer from fear, exaggeration, or reliance on superstitious practices, and instead strengthens tawakkul (trust) in Allah alone.

The Qur’ān also alludes to the concept of the evil eye in the verse:

“And verily, those who disbelieve would almost make you slip with their eyes (through hatred) when they hear the Reminder (the Qur’ān).” (Qur’ān 68:51)

This verse supports what is mentioned in the Sunnah and shows that harmful looks driven by envy and hatred can have real effects.

In conclusion, belief in the evil eye is part of Islamic faith, supported by both the Qur’ān and authentic hadiths. Islam neither denies its existence nor allows fear to dominate the believer. Instead, it provides balanced guidance: acknowledge its reality, seek protection and cure through Ruqyah, and place complete trust in Allah, for nothing happens except by His leave.

Uncleyunus

Saturday: December 20, 2025.