Ruqyah (رقية)
Definition
Ruqyah (Arabic: رقية, Turkish: Rüya) refers to the practice of reciting specific verses from the Qur’an and supplications to seek protection, healing, and exorcism. It is an Islamic spiritual healing method that serves as an antidote to various ailments, both physical and spiritual, often related to effects attributed to jinn, magic, or the evil eye.
Etymology
- Arabic: رقية (Ruqyah)
- Turkish: Rüya
The term “Ruqyah” stems from the Arabic root verb رقي (raqā), which means to ascend or move up. In the context of Islamic tradition, it refers to the elevation of protection and healing through divine verses and prayers.
Context within Hadith and Qur’an
Ruqyah is explicitly mentioned and authenticated within Hadith literature. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sanctioned the practice under specific conditions, ensuring the recitations do not contradict Islamic monotheism (Tawhid). The Qur’an also serves as the primary source for verses used in Ruqyah, particularly Surah Al-Fatiha, Ayat Al-Kursi (Qur’an 2:255), and Surahs Al-Falaq (Qur’an 113) and An-Naas (Qur’an 114).
Types of Ruqyah
- Preventive Ruqyah: Performed to guard against potential harm from envy, jinn, or sorcery.
- Curative Ruqyah: Employed to counteract ailments already present, be they spiritual afflictions or physical illnesses.
Usage and Procedures
Ruqyah involves the recitation of specific Qur’anic verses and supplications over the afflicted individual. Some common steps include:
- The reciter should be in a state of purity (wudhu).
- Recitations are done directly or over water, which the afflicted can then drink.
- The process includes invoking God’s name and asking for His healing through verses and prayers.
Books for Further Study
- “The Remedy for various physical and spiritual symptoms” by Sheikh Saeed Bin Wahf Al-Qahtani
- “Ruqyah: Healing and Treatment by Qur’an and Sunna” by Faizan Shaikh
- “Fortress of the Muslim” by Sa’id bin Ali bin Wahf al-Qahtani
Takeaways
- Ruqyah is deeply rooted in Islamic belief and the practice of reciting the Qur’an for healing.
- Its legitimacy stems from the Qur’an and Hadith, emphasizing its monotheistic foundation.
- Ruqyah practices should not contradict the core tenet of Islamic faith: the Oneness of God (Tawhid).
Conclusion
Ruqyah serves as a significant spiritual healing practice within the Islamic tradition. By utilizing the powerful verses of the Qur’an, Muslims seek protection, alleviation of ailments, and a closer connection to God. Ensuring its authenticity and alignment with Islamic teachings is key to its proper application. The practice of Ruqyah underscores the holistic approach to health in Islam, integrating spiritual, emotional, and physical realms for comprehensive well-being.
