Ruqyah Treatment in Islam: A Spiritual Path to Healing

Ruqyah Treatment in Islam: A Spiritual Path to Healing

In Islamic tradition, Ruqyah is a form of spiritual treatment used to cure physical, emotional, and spiritual ailments. Rooted in the Quran and Sunnah (the practices of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him), Ruqyah involves the recitation of specific verses from the Quran and authentic supplications for protection and healing. This practice is highly regarded as a means to seek Allah’s help and is often used to ward off harmful influences such as the evil eye (al-ayn), black magic (sihr), and jinn possession.

The Foundations of Ruqyah in Islam

Ruqyah derives its legitimacy from numerous references in the Quran and Hadith. The Quran is considered the ultimate source of healing, as Allah says:

"And We send down from the Quran that which is healing and mercy for the believers." — (Quran, 17:82)

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also practiced and recommended Ruqyah as a remedy for various ailments:

  • He permitted and encouraged the use of Ruqyah as long as it did not involve shirk (associating partners with Allah).
  • Authentic narrations (Ahadith) report that he recited verses of protection over himself and others.

Types of Ruqyah

There are two main categories of Ruqyah in Islamic practice:

  1. Ruqyah Shar’iyyah (Legitimate Ruqyah): This involves recitations derived directly from the Quran and authentic supplications of the Prophet.
  2. Ruqyah Ghayr Shar’iyyah (Non-Legitimate Ruqyah): This includes practices involving shirk, superstitions, or non-Islamic rituals and is strictly prohibited.

Examples of commonly recited texts in Ruqyah Shar’iyyah include:

  • Surah Al-Fatihah (1:1-7)
  • Ayat-ul-Kursi (2:255)
  • Surah Al-Ikhlas (112), Al-Falaq (113), and An-Nas (114)

Additionally, supplications like:

"I seek refuge in Allah's perfect words from the evil of what He created" (Sahih Muslim) are frequently used.

Purposes and Applications of Ruqyah

Ruqyah serves multiple purposes in healing and protection:

  1. Healing Physical Ailments: Reciting Quranic verses over a sick person is believed to invoke Allah’s mercy and facilitate recovery.
  2. Spiritual Protection: Regular recitation provides a shield against negative spiritual influences, including evil eye and magic.
  3. Emotional and Psychological Relief: It helps calm anxiety, fear, and other mental stresses by connecting the reciter to divine guidance and peace.
  4. Breaking Sihr (Black Magic): Specialized Ruqyah rituals are used to nullify the effects of sorcery.

Performing Ruqyah

Ruqyah can be performed by oneself or by a trusted individual, often a knowledgeable person well-versed in Quranic recitation and the Sunnah. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Purity and Sincerity: The individual performing Ruqyah should be in a state of wudu (ablution) and have sincere faith in Allah’s power to heal.
  2. Use of Halal Methods: Only Quranic verses, authentic supplications, and permissible actions are used.
  3. Direct Contact (Optional): Light blowing or placing a hand on the affected area may be performed while reciting.
  4. Tawakkul (Reliance on Allah): Trusting in Allah’s will and accepting the outcome with patience and gratitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ruqyah Effective for All Problems?
Yes, Ruqyah can be beneficial for various issues—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—but it should be complemented with conventional medical treatment when needed. Reliance on Allah’s wisdom is essential.

Can Anyone Perform Ruqyah?
Yes, any Muslim who follows the correct method can perform Ruqyah for themselves or others, as long as they avoid prohibited practices.

Is There a Risk of Misuse?
Misinterpretations of Ruqyah or seeking help from unqualified individuals can lead to practices contrary to Islamic teachings. It is important to adhere strictly to authentic sources and avoid innovations.

Conclusion

Ruqyah in Islam is a powerful tool for seeking healing and protection by turning to Allah’s words and divine guidance. It emphasizes reliance on Allah, purity of intention, and adherence to authentic practices. As a harmonious blend of spirituality and supplication, Ruqyah offers comfort and empowerment to those facing life’s challenges while reinforcing the core Islamic principle that ultimate healing comes from Allah alone.