Does Magic Necessarily Cause Harm?

Compiled by: Dr. Raza Abdullah Pasha (Hafizahullah)

Does Magic Always Harm the Target?

Answer:
No, magic does not necessarily harm its target. This is because its effect is subject to the will and permission of Allah Almighty. As Allah states in the Quran:

"وَمَا هُم بِضَارِّينَ بِهِ مِنْ أَحَدٍ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِ اللَّهِ ۚ"

"But they do not harm anyone through it except by permission of Allah." [Al-Baqarah: 102]
This verse clearly establishes that the ability of magic to harm is entirely dependent on Allah's will. No magician, individual, or object has independent power to inflict harm. The dominion and authority belong solely to Allah, Who governs all affairs.

A Real-Life Example

An incident involving a woman illustrates the reality of magic and its limitations:
  • A woman was infatuated with a neighbor and engaged in an impermissible relationship with him. Eventually, she became pregnant and tried everything to force him into marriage, but he abandoned her.
  • Desperate, she consulted several magicians and charlatans to cast magic on him, hoping to manipulate him into submission. One magician demanded an illicit relationship with her before performing the magic, which she agreed to.
  • Despite her efforts, the magic failed to influence the man, and he married someone else, severing all ties with her.
This case demonstrates that magic cannot affect someone unless Allah wills it. The man was spared from harm because Allah had not decreed it in his destiny.

Lessons from the Incident

  1. Allah's Sovereignty
    Magic, like all other phenomena, operates only within the framework of Allah’s will. No power can override His decree.
  2. The Futility of Magic
    Resorting to magic for personal gain or harm is both impermissible and often futile. Those who attempt it not only fail but also invite severe spiritual and moral consequences.
  3. Repentance and Guidance
    When the woman was advised of the impermissibility of her actions and reminded of Allah's punishment, she sincerely repented. This highlights the importance of guiding those who stray and encouraging them to return to Allah.

Conclusion

Magic does not inherently or inevitably cause harm; its effect depends entirely on Allah’s permission. Muslims should place their trust in Allah, avoid resorting to unlawful means, and seek refuge in Him from the trials of magic and other evils. Repentance and adherence to the teachings of Islam provide the ultimate protection and salvation.
 
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