What is Ruqya?

Ruqya is an Islamic practice involving the recitation of specific verses from the Quran, supplications, and prayers to seek healing and protection from spiritual ailments, including possession by jinn (supernatural beings), evil eye (envy), black magic (sihr), and other forms of spiritual harm. It is based on the belief that the words of Allah, as revealed in the Quran, have the power to heal and protect.

Historical Background of Ruqya

Ruqya has its roots in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who recommended it as a legitimate form of spiritual healing. Several hadiths (sayings of the Prophet) highlight instances where he performed ruqya for his companions and instructed them to use it. For example, it is narrated that the Prophet recited Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas as a form of ruqya to seek protection from harm.

The practice has evolved over centuries but remains fundamentally grounded in the Quran and Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet). It is widely accepted among Muslims and practiced in various forms across different cultures and regions within the Muslim world.

How to Perform Ruqya

Performing ruqya involves several steps, which can vary slightly based on individual practices and cultural differences. However, the core elements include:

1. Intention (Niyyah): Start with a sincere intention to seek Allah’s help and healing through ruqya.
2. Purification: The person performing ruqya should be in a state of ritual purity (wudu). It’s also preferable for the person receiving ruqya to be in a state of purity.
3. Recitation of Quranic Verses: Specific verses from the Quran are recited. Commonly recited verses include:

• Surah Al-Fatiha (Chapter 1)
• Ayat Al-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255)
• The last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285-286)
• Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112)
• Surah Al-Falaq (Chapter 113)
• Surah An-Nas (Chapter 114)

1. Supplications and Prayers: In addition to Quranic verses, supplications (duas) from the Sunnah are recited. Some common supplications include:

• “Bismillahi arqeek, min kulli shay’in yu’dheek, min sharri kulli nafsin aw ‘aynin hasid. Allahu yashfeek. Bismillahi arqeek.” (In the name of Allah, I perform ruqya for you, from everything that harms you, from the evil of every soul or envious eye. May Allah cure you. In the name of Allah, I perform ruqya for you).

1. Blowing and Wiping: After reciting the verses and supplications, the practitioner may blow lightly onto their hands and wipe over the person’s body, or directly onto the affected area.

Benefits of Ruqya

Ruqya offers numerous spiritual and psychological benefits, including:

1. Spiritual Healing: It helps in removing spiritual afflictions caused by jinn, black magic, and evil eye.
2. Psychological Comfort: The recitation of the Quran and supplications provides a sense of peace, comfort, and reassurance.
3. Strengthening Faith: Engaging in ruqya reinforces one’s faith and reliance on Allah, deepening the spiritual connection.
4. Physical Relief: Many individuals report physical relief from ailments when combined with conventional medical treatments.

The Treatment Process

The treatment process through ruqya can be both self-administered and performed by a qualified individual, often referred to as a raqi. Here’s a brief outline of both approaches:

Self-Administered Ruqya

1. Prepare the Environment: Ensure a quiet and clean space, free from distractions.
2. Perform Ablution: Make sure you are in a state of wudu (ablution).
3. Set Your Intention: Have a clear and sincere intention to seek Allah’s help.
4. Recite Quranic Verses and Supplications: Follow the steps mentioned earlier, focusing on recitation with understanding and humility.
5. Blow and Wipe: Blow lightly on your hands and wipe over your body or the affected area.

Seeking a Qualified Raqi

1. Choose Wisely: Find a qualified and reputable raqi known for their piety and adherence to Islamic teachings.
2. Consultation: Explain your symptoms and concerns to the raqi.
3. Ruqya Session: The raqi will perform ruqya by reciting specific Quranic verses and supplications, often involving direct recitation, blowing, and wiping.
4. Follow-up: Depending on the severity of the affliction, multiple sessions may be necessary.

Conclusion

Ruqya is a profound and holistic approach to spiritual healing in Islam, deeply rooted in the Quran and Sunnah. Whether self-administered or conducted by a qualified raqi, it offers a means of seeking Allah’s help and protection from various spiritual and physical ailments. Embracing ruqya not only facilitates healing but also strengthens one’s faith and connection with Allah, promoting overall well-being and peace of mind.