top of page

Ruqyah in the Qur’an & Sunnah – Complete FAQ Guide

Ruqyah in the Qur’an & Sunnah

 

‘Ruqyah’ refers to treating illnesses using Qur’anic āyāt and invocations prescribed by the Prophet ﷺ. It serves as a cure for ailments such as evil eye, magic, jinn-related harm, and physical or mental distress.
The Qur’an describes itself as a mercy and healing for the believers (Surah Al-Isra 17:81-82). Ruqyah helps reaffirm īmān and tawḥīd while providing spiritual and physical healing.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Make good use of the two cures: honey and the Qur’an.” (Ibn Mājah)

ʿĀ’ishah رضي الله عنها narrated that Jibrīl عليه السلام performed ruqyah on the Prophet ﷺ when he was ill. (Muslim)
She also said: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to command me to perform ruqyah from the evil eye.” (Muslim)
Another narration mentions the Prophet ﷺ saying: “Seek ruqyah for her, because she has been affected by the evil eye.” (Bukhārī)

Ibn al-Qayyim رحمه الله said: “If the sick person uses the Qur’an for healing in the proper way—with sincerity, faith, complete acceptance, and firm conviction—then no disease can resist it.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can anyone do ruqyah or is it only for certain people?

Ruqyah can and should be performed by every Muslim. It is not restricted to scholars or specific individuals.

 
Is reciting ruqyah better than listening to it?

Yes, if one is able to recite properly. However, listening to ruqyah or having someone else recite over you is also valid, especially for long sessions.

 
How long should the ruqyah be recited or listened to?

Daily sessions of several hours may be required. The duration depends on the severity of the affliction.

 
Reciting or listening to ruqyah is not making a difference.

Check your intention (niyyah) and conviction (yaqīn). Do istighfār, as sins may block Allah’s help.

How does one know if they’re afflicted with evil eye?
Symptoms may include fear, restlessness, sweating, vomiting, itching, or sleepiness during ruqyah. The Qur’an is the best diagnosis tool.
If symptoms appear, continue ruqyah with the relevant āyāt.
The person afflicted refuses to recite or listen to ruqyah.
This may be due to shayṭān’s influence. Someone else should recite and use water or oil for them.
Should illnesses be treated with ruqyah only?
No. Physical symptoms must be treated medically. Use ruqyah alongside a healthy Sunnah lifestyle and wholesome foods like talbīnah (barley porridge).

Further Guidance on Ruqyah Practices

Are there specific āyāt in the Qur’an that have more impact?
Yes. Powerful verses include Sūrah al-Fātiḥah, Āyat al-Kursī, and the last three sūrahs. Others: 2:164, 3:18, 7:54, 23:118, 72:3, 37:1–10, 59:24, Sūrah al-Mulk, and al-Raḥmān.
 
Do the Sunnah morning and evening adhkār help?
Yes. They offer daily protection against magic, jinn, and the evil eye. These should never be abandoned—even after healing.
Why should one blow after reciting ruqyah?
Blowing is a Sunnah method, representing spiritual power. Ibn al-Qayyim explains it combats the evil forces by Allah’s will and pure words.
What is a ruqyah bath?
A ruqyah bath is taken with water over which Qur’an has been recited. Breathe into the water and pour over the body daily until symptoms ease.

Rely Only on Allah

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Abbās رضي الله عنه narrated: The Prophet ﷺ said, “Be mindful of Allah and He will be mindful of you… Know that if the entire nation gathered to benefit or harm you, they could do nothing except what Allah ﷻ has already written for you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried.” (Tirmidhī)

Other FAQs

here are some other FAQs
bottom of page