Navigating Spiritual Afflictions: What the Quran and Sunnah Teach Us

Introduction: Understanding Spiritual Afflictions in Islam

In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals experience symptoms and difficulties that conventional medicine cannot explain or address. These challenges may manifest as persistent nightmares, unexplained physical ailments, sudden behavioural changes, or feelings of persistent gloom despite favourable circumstances. While modern medicine has made remarkable advancements, the Islamic tradition recognises that some afflictions stem from spiritual sources rather than purely physical or psychological ones.

The Quran and authentic Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ provide a comprehensive framework for understanding, identifying, and treating spiritual afflictions. This knowledge, preserved through centuries of Islamic scholarship, offers hope and practical solutions for those suffering from issues that may have supernatural origins.

This guide aims to illuminate Islamic teachings on spiritual afflictions by drawing directly from the Quran and authentic hadith. We will explore how to recognise the signs of spiritual problems, understand their nature according to Islamic texts, and learn about the traditional Islamic approaches to diagnosis and treatment. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of how to address these challenges through authenticated Islamic methods.

What You Will Learn:

• The reality of spiritual afflictions from an Islamic perspective

• How to differentiate between spiritual and medical issues

• Types of spiritual afflictions mentioned in Islamic texts

• Traditional Islamic approaches to spiritual diagnosis

• Authentic treatment methods from the Quran and Sunnah

• The importance of proper spiritual evaluation before treatment

The Reality of Spiritual Afflictions in Islam

Islam acknowledges the existence of unseen realms and beings that can affect human life. The Quran explicitly mentions the existence of jinn, the evil eye, magic, and other spiritual realities that can impact human wellbeing.

Quranic Foundation

The Quran establishes the existence of the unseen world in numerous verses:

“And indeed, We created man from dried clay of altered mud. And the jinn, We created before from scorching fire.” (Quran 15:26-27)

The reality of magic (sihr) is also confirmed in the Quran:

“And they followed what the devils recited over Solomon’s kingdom. Solomon did not disbelieve, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic…” (Quran 2:102)

The concept of the evil eye is referenced in this verse:

“And indeed, those who disbelieve would almost make you slip with their eyes when they hear the message…” (Quran 68:51)

Evidence from the Sunnah

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ addressed spiritual afflictions in numerous authentic hadiths:

Regarding the evil eye, the Prophet ﷺ said: “The evil eye is real, and if anything were to overtake the divine decree, it would be the evil eye.” (Muslim)

Concerning possession by jinn, there are numerous narrations of the Prophet ﷺ treating such cases, including the famous incident where he ﷺ said to a jinn possessing a person: “Get out, enemy of Allah! I am the Messenger of Allah.” (Abu Dawud)

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself experienced magic that was performed against him, as narrated in Sahih Bukhari, and he sought treatment through ruqyah (Islamic spiritual healing).

Recognising Spiritual Afflictions: Signs and Symptoms

Distinguishing between medical conditions and spiritual afflictions is crucial for proper treatment. While some symptoms may overlap, Islamic tradition provides guidance on identifying spiritual issues.

Common Signs of Spiritual Afflictions

Potential Indicators of Jinn Possession:

• Extreme aversion to the Quran or Islamic practices

• Speaking in an unknown language or voice

• Unusual physical strength

• Knowledge of unseen matters

• Seizure-like episodes when the Quran is recited

Potential Indicators of Magic (Sihr):

• Sudden onset of marital problems without apparent cause

• Unexplained physical ailments that doctors cannot diagnose

• Persistent nightmares of a similar nature

• Sudden behavioural changes without an apparent reason

• Constant feelings of being blocked or hindered in life affairs

Potential Indicators of Evil Eye:

• Sudden illness following praise or attention

• Unexplained fatigue or energy depletion

• Constant bad luck or misfortune

• Rapid deterioration in health, wealth, or relationships

• Symptoms that appear suddenly without a medical explanation

Differentiating from Medical Conditions

Islam encourages seeking medical attention for illnesses. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it, with the exception of one disease: old age.” (Abu Dawud)

Consider spiritual factors when:

• Medical tests show no abnormalities despite persistent symptoms

• Symptoms worsen during religious activities or improve with Quranic recitation

• Conventional treatments consistently fail to provide relief

• Symptoms have unusual patterns not typical of medical conditions

• There is a clear temporal connection between symptoms and possible spiritual causes (e.g., conflict with someone practising magic)

It is important to note that Islam does not encourage attributing all problems to spiritual causes. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions sought medical treatment for physical ailments and recognised natural causes of disease.

Types of Spiritual Afflictions in Islamic Texts

The Quran and Sunnah identify several types of spiritual afflictions that can affect believers. Understanding these different types is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

1. Evil Eye (Ayn)

The evil eye refers to harm that comes from the jealous or admiring gaze of others. It is one of the most common spiritual afflictions mentioned in Islamic texts.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The evil eye is real. If anything were to precede the decree, it would be the evil eye, and when you are asked to take a bath (to provide a cure) from the influence of the evil eye, you should take a bath.” (Muslim)

The evil eye can affect anyone, regardless of their spiritual state. Even the Prophet ﷺ sought protection from it through prayers and supplications.

2. Magic (Sihr)

Magic involves the use of supernatural means to influence events, often through the assistance of jinn. The Quran confirms its reality while forbidding its practice:

“…But the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and that which was revealed to the two angels at Babylon, Harut and Marut…” (Quran 2:102)

Types of magic mentioned in Islamic texts include:

• Separation magic – designed to create discord between spouses or friends

• Binding magic – causing impotence or inability to fulfil marital duties

• Illness magic – causing physical or mental ailments

• Love magic – creating unnatural attraction or obsession

• Blocking magic – preventing success in career, education, or life pursuits

3. Jinn Possession (Mass/Sara)

Jinn are beings created from smokeless fire who normally inhabit a realm parallel to humans. While most jinn do not interact with humans, some may cause harm through possession or influence.

The Quran mentions:

“Those who consume interest cannot stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except as one stands who is being beaten by Satan into insanity…” (Quran 2:275)

This verse uses a metaphor that acknowledges the concept of jinn influence on human behaviour.

Islamic scholars differentiate between:

• Complete possession – where the jinn takes full control of the person’s body

• Partial influence – where the jinn affects thoughts, emotions, or specific bodily functions

• External attachment – where the jinn follows or harasses without internal possession

4. Waswas (Whispers of Satan)

This refers to the evil suggestions and doubts that Satan or evil jinn place in the human mind. The Quran addresses this directly:

“Say: I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind… From the evil of the whisperer who withdraws, who whispers into the breasts of mankind, from among the jinn and mankind.” (Quran 114:1-6)

While waswas is a spiritual affliction, it typically does not manifest as dramatically as possession or magic. It often presents as persistent negative thoughts, doubts about faith, or obsessive-compulsive religious behaviours.

Islamic Approach to Diagnosis of Spiritual Afflictions

Proper diagnosis is crucial before attempting any spiritual treatment. The Islamic tradition emphasises careful assessment rather than jumping to conclusions about spiritual causes.

Principles of Islamic Spiritual Diagnosis

1. Eliminate medical causes first – The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged seeking medical treatment for illnesses.

2. Consider psychological factors – Not all mental or emotional issues are spiritual in nature.

3. Look for specific signs, as outlined in Islamic texts and traditions.

4. Seek knowledge from qualified individuals – Those with experience in Islamic spiritual healing.

5. Avoid superstition – Base diagnosis on authentic Islamic teachings, not cultural practices.

The Importance of Proper Evaluation

Misdiagnosis of spiritual afflictions can lead to several negative consequences:

• Neglecting necessary medical treatment for physical illnesses

• Applying inappropriate spiritual remedies that may not address the real issue

• Creating fear and anxiety about spiritual problems that may not exist

• Potentially falling into shirk (associating partners with Allah) through un-Islamic healing practices

• Wasting time and resources on treatments that will not be effective

For these reasons, the Quran and Sunnah emphasise the importance of knowledge and discernment when dealing with potential spiritual afflictions.

Warning: Signs of Inauthentic Spiritual Healers

Be cautious of those who:

• Claim to know the unseen without evidence

• Use methods not found in the Quran or authentic Sunnah

• Charge excessive fees for spiritual services

• Mix Islamic practices with superstitious or cultural rituals

• Make promises of guaranteed results

• Discourage medical treatment for clearly physical symptoms

Authentic Islamic Treatments for Spiritual Afflictions

The Quran and Sunnah provide specific remedies for spiritual afflictions that have been practised by Muslims for centuries.

1. Ruqyah (Quranic Healing)

Ruqyah refers to the recitation of specific verses from the Quran and authentic supplications from the Sunnah for healing purposes. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ practised and approved of ruqyah that meets certain conditions.

He ﷺ said: “There is nothing wrong with ruqyah as long as it does not involve shirk (associating partners with Allah).” (Muslim)

Verses commonly used in ruqyah include:

• Surah Al-Fatihah (Chapter 1)

• Ayat al-Kursi (2:255)

• The last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285-286)

• Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas (Chapters 112-114)

• Verses dealing specifically with magic, such as 10:81-82 and 7:117-122

2. Dua (Supplication)

Specific supplications from the Sunnah offer protection and treatment for spiritual afflictions:

For protection from the evil eye, the Prophet ﷺ taught this dua: “I seek refuge for you in the perfect words of Allah from every devil, harmful thing, and accusing eye.” (Bukhari)

For protection from jinn and shaytan: “I seek refuge in Allah’s perfect words from the evil of what He has created.” (Muslim)

3. Adhkar (Remembrance of Allah)

Regular remembrance of Allah strengthens spiritual immunity against afflictions:

• Reciting Ayat al-Kursi after each obligatory prayer

• Reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas three times in the morning and evening

• Saying “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) before activities

• Regular istighfar (seeking forgiveness)

• Maintaining morning and evening adhkar from authentic Sunnah

4. Physical Remedies from the Sunnah

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentioned certain natural substances that have spiritual benefits:

• Black seed (Nigella sativa) – The Prophet ﷺ said: “In the black seed is healing for every disease except death.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

• Honey – “There emerges from their bellies a drink, varying in colours, in which there is healing for people.” (Quran 16:69)

• Zamzam water – “It is blessed; it is food that nourishes.” (Muslim)

• Olive oil – “Eat olive oil and use it as an ointment, for it comes from a blessed tree.” (Tirmidhi)

5. Strengthening Faith and Worship

Perhaps the most fundamental treatment is strengthening one’s connection with Allah through:

• Regular and mindful prayer (salah)

• Consistent recitation and study of the Quran

• Voluntary fasting

• Charity (sadaqah)

• Avoiding sins and repenting sincerely

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Whoever adheres to taqwa (God-consciousness), Allah will make a way out for him from every difficulty and provide for him from sources he could never imagine.” (Quran 65:2-3)

The Process of Spiritual Evaluation

Before applying any treatment, a proper spiritual evaluation is essential to determine:

1. Whether the problem is spiritual in nature

2. What type of spiritual affliction may be involved

3. What specific treatment approach would be most effective

Traditional Islamic spiritual evaluation involves:

1. Symptom Assessment

This includes examining the nature, timing, and patterns of symptoms to identify possible spiritual connections. Particular attention is paid to:

• When symptoms began, and any connection to significant events

• How symptoms respond to religious activities (prayer, Quran recitation)

• Whether symptoms have unusual characteristics not typical of medical conditions

• Any dreams or visions that may provide insights

2. Quranic Response Testing

This involves observing how the person responds to Quranic recitation, particularly verses used in ruqyah. Reactions may provide clues about:

• The presence of a jinn influence or possession

• The specific type of spiritual affliction

• The severity of the condition

• Which Quranic verses may be most effective for treatment

3. Spiritual Background Analysis

Understanding the individual’s spiritual environment and history helps identify potential causes and solutions:

• Adherence to Islamic practices and protection methods

• Exposure to spiritually harmful environments or practices

• Family history of spiritual afflictions

• Potential sources of harm (known conflicts, jealousy, etc.)

4. Differential Diagnosis

This critical step helps distinguish between:

• Medical conditions requiring medical intervention

• Psychological issues that may benefit from counselling

• Genuine spiritual afflictions requiring Islamic spiritual treatment

• Normal life challenges that require patience and practical solutions

The Importance of Professional Spiritual Evaluation

A proper spiritual evaluation requires knowledge of both Islamic teachings and the manifestations of spiritual afflictions. It should be conducted by individuals with:

• Sound knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah

• Experience in distinguishing between medical and spiritual issues

• Adherence to authentic Islamic methods without innovations

• An ethical approach that prioritises the well-being of the afflicted person

Seeking Professional Spiritual Evaluation

If you’re experiencing symptoms that may indicate a spiritual affliction, it’s important to seek proper evaluation before attempting treatment.

Our Spiritual Evaluation Service provides a comprehensive assessment based on Quranic and Sunnah principles to determine whether your symptoms have spiritual causes and what specific approaches might help.

Our Evaluation Process

Our service offers a thorough spiritual diagnosis that:

• Analyses your specific symptoms and circumstances

• Distinguishes between medical and spiritual issues

• Identifies the specific type of spiritual affliction (if present)

• Provides recommendations for appropriate Islamic treatments

The evaluation process is straightforward:

1. Submit your full name, mother’s name, a recent picture, and a detailed description of the problems and symptoms you’re experiencing

2. Our spiritual teacher conducts a thorough evaluation using authentic Islamic methods

3. You receive an email with the results of your evaluation, including whether your issues are medical or spiritual in nature

4. If spiritual issues are identified, you’ll receive specific recommendations for appropriate treatments

Contact Information

To request a spiritual evaluation, you can reach us through:

• Email: support@roohanionlinespiritualhelp.co.uk

• WhatsApp: +447734408262 (messages only)

Please note that all spiritual work is done remotely. We do not conduct face-to-face meetings, video calls, or phone consultations. All communication is handled via email or WhatsApp messages.

Preventive Measures: Islamic Protection from Spiritual Harm

The Quran and Sunnah emphasise prevention as the best approach to spiritual afflictions. Here are key protective practices from authentic Islamic sources:

Daily Protection Practices

• Morning and Evening Adhkar – The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught specific supplications to be recited in the morning and evening for protection.

• Recitation of Ayat al-Kursi – “Whoever recites Ayat al-Kursi after each prescribed prayer, nothing will prevent him from entering Paradise except death.” (Nasai)

• The Three Quls – Reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas three times in the morning and evening. The Prophet ﷺ said: “They will suffice you against everything.” (Abu Dawud)

• Saying Bismillah – Before eating, entering the home, and beginning activities.

• Dua before sleeping – Including reciting the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah.

Strengthening Spiritual Immunity

• Regular prayer – Maintaining the five daily prayers on time.

• Quran recitation – Daily reading and reflection on the Quran.

• Avoiding sins – Particularly major sins that weaken spiritual protection.

• Maintaining wudu – Staying in a state of ritual purity when possible.

• Charity – The Prophet ﷺ said: “Charity extinguishes sins as water extinguishes fire.” (Tirmidhi)

Environmental Protection

• Reciting Surah Al-Baqarah – “Do not make your houses like graves. Indeed, Satan flees from the house in which Surah Al-Baqarah is recited.” (Muslim)

• Avoiding isolated and impure places – Where jinn are more likely to reside.

• Mentioning Allah’s name – When entering the home and dark places.

• Proper disposal of hair and nails, which can be used in magic if obtained.

• Avoiding contact with spiritually harmful objects or practices, Such as amulets not based on the Quran and Sunnah.

Conclusion: The Islamic Balance in Addressing Spiritual Afflictions

The Islamic approach to spiritual afflictions represents a balanced path that acknowledges both the spiritual and physical dimensions of human experience. This balance is reflected in several key principles:

Key Principles to Remember

1. Faith and Action – Islam teaches reliance on Allah (tawakkul) while also taking practical steps for treatment.

2. Spiritual and Medical – Islamic tradition encourages seeking both spiritual and medical help as appropriate.

3. Knowledge-Based Approach – Treatments should be based on authentic knowledge from the Quran and Sunnah, not superstition.

4. Prevention and Cure – Islam emphasises preventive practices while also providing remedies.

5. Compassion and Dignity – Those suffering from spiritual afflictions deserve compassion, not stigma or fear.

By following the guidance of the Quran and the example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Muslims can address spiritual afflictions with confidence, knowing they are drawing from a tradition that has offered effective solutions for over fourteen centuries.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a spiritual affliction, remember that help is available. A proper spiritual evaluation is the crucial first step toward finding relief and recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Spiritual Wellness

If you’re experiencing symptoms that conventional approaches haven’t resolved, consider a professional spiritual evaluation to determine if spiritual factors may be involved.

Contact us today:

• Email: support@roohanionlinespiritualhelp.co.uk

• WhatsApp: +447734408262 (messages only)

Provide your full name, mother’s name, a recent picture, and details about your symptoms to receive a comprehensive spiritual evaluation based on authentic Islamic principles.