Yes, black magic is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam.
Islam strongly condemns black magic. While Islamic thinkers acknowledge its existence, they grapple with understanding and addressing what they consider a superstitious relic from the past.
Understanding Black Magic (Sihr) in Islam
Sihr, often translated as sorcery or witchcraft, is viewed as a form of trickery. According to the provided reference, it's seen as "trickery aimed at conflating falsehood with the rational association of causes and effects." This implies that black magic involves deception and misrepresentation, presenting falsehoods as truth through manipulation.
Why is it Haram?
The prohibition of black magic stems from several key Islamic principles:
- Association with Shirk (Idolatry): Black magic often involves seeking help from or associating with entities other than Allah (God), which constitutes shirk, the most serious sin in Islam.
- Harm to Others: Black magic is often intended to cause harm to others, which is strictly forbidden.
- Deception and Falsehood: As sihr relies on trickery and misrepresentation, it contradicts the Islamic values of truthfulness and honesty.
- Dependence on the Unseen: Islam teaches reliance on Allah alone. Black magic encourages reliance on unseen forces and practices that are not sanctioned by Islamic teachings.
The Islamic View on Dealing with Black Magic
The Quran and Sunnah (teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad) provide guidance on seeking protection from and dealing with the effects of black magic:
- Seeking Refuge in Allah: Reciting specific verses of the Quran, like Ayat al-Kursi and Surah al-Falaq and Surah al-Nas, are recommended for seeking protection from evil and black magic.
- Making Dua (Supplication): Praying to Allah for protection and healing is a fundamental aspect of Islamic faith.
- Ruqyah (Islamic Exorcism): Ruqyah involves reciting Quranic verses and supplications over a person afflicted by black magic. It must be performed according to Islamic guidelines, without seeking help from forbidden sources.
- Avoiding Superstition: Islam encourages rational thought and discourages superstitious beliefs and practices.
Summary
Aspect Description Ruling Haram (Forbidden) Reason Involves shirk, harm to others, deception, and reliance on forbidden practices. Islamic Response Seeking refuge in Allah, making Dua, Ruqyah (performed according to Islamic guidelines), avoiding superstition
