Understanding Sihr (Black Magic) in Islam
In English, Sihr is often translated as “black magic.” However, we avoid using “black magic” because some people believe that it can sometimes be used for good purposes. This belief is inaccurate; in Islam, all forms of Sihr are considered harmful as they involve Shirk (associating partners with Allah). In the Quran, Allah uses the term “Sihr” specifically to denote something evil and destructive.

The Importance of Diagnosis in Ruqya
Diagnosis is a pivotal aspect of Ruqya (spiritual healing) as identifying the root cause of an affliction is often half the solution. Imagine a scenario: placing sweets on the ground attracts ants. Removing only the ants without removing the sweets is futile; they will keep returning. Here, the sweets represent the Sihr, and the ants represent the Jinn (spiritual beings). Removing the Sihr, just like removing the sweets, prevents further harm.

Effects of Sihr
Sihr can affect individuals in different areas of their lives, typically manifesting in four main forms:

1. Eaten Sihr
   This type involves Sihr being ingested, leading to ongoing, unexplained stomach issues that may persist for years. Doctors might label these as ulcers, Crohn’s disease, acid reflux, or chronic constipation. Remedies include Senna or Sidr leaves infused with Quranic recitations. Occasionally, Eaten Sihr may be ingested by accident, producing less intense symptoms if it was not intended for the individual.
2. Sihr Placed in the Body
   In this form, Sihr is introduced into the body with the help of Jinn and can be placed anywhere, such as the brain, chest, or limbs. Symptoms are unusual, repetitive, and often concentrated, like headaches, cognitive difficulties, or, in women, issues affecting fertility and marital relations. Often, this Sihr holds a Jinn in place, making removal challenging until the Sihr itself is addressed.
3. Symbolic Sihr
   Symbolic Sihr involves the use of symbols to harm individuals, such as knots (as mentioned in Surah Al-Falaq). These symbols “tie up” different aspects of a person’s life, affecting relationships, clarity of thought, or the mind. Sorcerers may use materials like hair in satanic rituals, which gain potency through shirk (invoking other than Allah). Without these recitations, these objects are powerless—much like in Ruqya, where recitation from the Quran, when used with elements like water or oil, amplifies healing.
4. Contact Sihr
   Contact Sihr occurs when a person steps on or touches Sihr-affected items, often unintentionally. Sorcerers may place Sihr in frequented areas like doorways or workspaces. This type of Sihr often results in skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, which doctors struggle to fully explain. When intended for someone else, the effects might be mild, but if aimed directly, the impact is more intense.

Treating Sihr
Effective treatment targets the root of the Sihr. For example, Eaten Sihr requires purification from the stomach. Success in Ruqya often hinges on addressing the Sihr itself rather than directly attacking the Jinn it attracts. If the Sihr is removed, the Jinn often departs on its own, as its bond to the afflicted person is broken.