The concept of the evil eye (Al-Ayn) in Islam refers to the harmful influence that someone’s envious or jealous gaze can have on a person, causing them misfortune, illness, or harm. It is a common belief that jealousy and envy can have spiritual consequences. Islam provides several practices and supplications to protect oneself from the evil eye and safeguard against its effects. Here are key ways to protect yourself:
1. Reciting Ayat-ul-Kursi
Ayat-ul-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255) is one of the most powerful verses in the Quran and is known to offer protection from evil forces, including the evil eye. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended its recitation for protection from harm. It is advised to recite Ayat-ul-Kursi after each obligatory prayer and before going to bed.
2. Reciting Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas
Surah Al-Falaq (113) and Surah An-Nas (114) are known as the “Mu’awwidhat” or the two protective surahs. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) frequently recited these surahs for seeking refuge from the evil eye and other harmful entities. Reciting these surahs three times in the morning and evening is an excellent way to seek Allah’s protection from the evil eye.
3. Reciting the Du’a for Protection from the Evil Eye
There are specific supplications (du’as) mentioned in the Hadith to protect oneself from the evil eye. One such du’a is:
“A’udhu bi kalimatillahi tammati min sharri ma khalaq”
(I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created).
Reciting this three times in the morning and evening can help protect you from harmful influences.
4. Seeking Allah’s Protection with the Du’a of the Prophet (PBUH)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught the following supplication for protection from the evil eye:
“Bismillah illadhi la yadurru ma’asmihi shay’un fi al-ardi wa la fi as-sama’i wahuwas-sami’ul-‘alim”
(In the name of Allah, with whose name nothing on earth or in the heavens can harm, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing).
Reciting this daily ensures that you remain under the protection of Allah and that no harm can reach you from the evil eye.
5. Using the Power of Ruqyah (Spiritual Healing)
Ruqyah involves the recitation of Quranic verses, supplications, and prayers to seek Allah’s help in removing harmful influences, including the evil eye. One of the most effective methods is the recitation of the following:
- Surah Al-Fatiha (1:1-7): The opening chapter of the Quran is often used for healing and protection.
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285-286): The last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah are powerful for protection from harm.
Listening to or reciting these verses over oneself or a loved one can help eliminate the effects of the evil eye.
6. Maintaining the Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr)
Constantly remembering Allah through dhikr (remembrance) strengthens your spiritual defenses. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended regular recitation of phrases like:
- “SubhanAllah” (Glory be to Allah)
- “Alhamdulillah” (Praise be to Allah)
- “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest)
- “La ilaha illallah” (There is no god but Allah)
These invocations, especially when recited with sincerity, help protect you from the evil eye and other harmful influences.
7. Avoiding Excessive Praise and Showing Humility
In Islam, it is advised to avoid boasting or overly praising oneself in front of others, as it can attract jealousy and the evil eye. If you are sharing good news or showing off your achievements, it is recommended to say Masha’Allah (What Allah has willed) or BarakAllahu Fik (May Allah bless you). This helps acknowledge that all blessings come from Allah and prevent jealousy from affecting you.
8. Seeking Protection for Children
Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of the evil eye. To protect them, parents can recite the protective supplications mentioned above, as well as the following:
- Surah Al-Ikhlas (112): Known for its power and simplicity, reciting it over children keeps them shielded from harm.
- Making Du’a (Supplication) for Their Safety: Parents can regularly pray for their children’s well-being and seek Allah’s protection.
9. Using the Evil Eye Amulets (Hirz)
While Islamic scholars may vary in their views on amulets, it is common in many cultures to use certain Islamic symbols or calligraphy, such as the Quranic verses of Ayat-ul-Kursi or the Mu’awwidhat, written on a piece of cloth or jewelry to protect from the evil eye. However, it’s crucial to remember that true protection comes from Allah and not from physical objects.
10. Fasting and Charity
Both fasting and giving charity (sadaqah) are highly rewarding in Islam and act as shields against harm. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned that charity, in particular, prevents calamities and can be a defense against the effects of the evil eye. Fasting, especially during Ramadan, enhances spiritual protection and brings Allah’s mercy.
Conclusion
Protecting oneself from the evil eye in Islam involves seeking refuge in Allah through sincere supplications, regular recitations of Quranic verses, and maintaining a strong connection to faith. Through practices like the recitation of Ayat-ul-Kursi, Surah Al-Falaq, Surah An-Nas, and using effective du’as, a person can shield themselves from harm. Additionally, ensuring humility and avoiding envy in daily life plays a significant role in preventing the negative effects of the evil eye. With these practices, one can stay spiritually protected, secure in the knowledge that Allah’s mercy and power are always at hand.