Quranic Water For Healing? Ruling & Sunnah | Islam Explained
Is it permissible to seek healing through the ingestion of water infused with verses from the Quran? While the practice of utilizing Quranic verses for healing is prevalent, its legitimacy and adherence to the Sunnah require careful examination.
The intersection of faith and healing has always been a complex and deeply personal one. In Islam, the Quran, the literal word of God, is revered not just for its spiritual guidance but also for its potential as a source of comfort and healing. This belief has led to various practices, one of which is the consumption of water in which Quranic verses have been dissolved or upon which they have been recited. This practice, often undertaken with the sincere intention of seeking Allah's blessings for physical or spiritual ailments, raises questions about its permissibility within the framework of Islamic teachings.
The practice of writing verses from the Quran and washing them off with water, then drinking the water, is one that evokes both curiosity and scrutiny. Those who engage in it often assert that they are seeking healing through the words of Allah. This raises a fundamental question: does Islamic scripture and tradition explicitly endorse such practices, or do they fall into the realm of innovation, potentially veering away from the authentic teachings of the faith?
Historically, there are instances that appear to lend credence to the practice, although the interpretation of these instances varies. It was narrated from Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) that he instructed the writing of specific Quranic verses in a vessel for a woman experiencing childbirth difficulties, with the subsequent washing of the verses and administration of the water to her. This incident, often cited, is a point of contention. Does it establish a broad permission for such practices, or is it a specific instance tied to a unique situation?
The permissibility of using water on which the Quran has been recited for healing is a subject of discussion among Islamic scholars. Many scholars permit the recitation of Ruqyah (incantations from the Quran and Sunnah) over water, which is then consumed or used for bathing. This practice finds support in the understanding that the Quran itself is a source of healing, as indicated in the verse, "And We send down of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe." (Surah Al-Isra, 17:82). The act of reciting the Quran over water is seen as a means of channeling this healing power.
Furthermore, the Quran is not just a collection of words; it is considered a source of blessings. The act of reciting the Quran over water is perceived as a means of infusing the water with these blessings, thus making it a potential source of healing. This practice aligns with the broader Islamic ethos of seeking blessings from Allah through various means, including the recitation of the Quran and supplications.
Conversely, the act of writing Quranic verses with the intention of dissolving them in water and drinking it has varying perspectives. While some scholars permit the practice under specific conditions, others express caution, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established Islamic principles and avoiding any practices that could be construed as innovations (bid'ah).
There is no strict prohibition against writing Quranic verses and prayers from the Sunnah with permissible materials, like saffron, on clean surfaces, and then washing it for consumption by a sick person. However, several conditions apply. The individual undertaking this practice must be known for their religious character, reflecting a commitment to Islamic principles. This ensures that the practice is carried out with the proper intention and respect for the Quran.
In the event the ink is not edible, the risk of ink poisoning would negate the practice's acceptability. Thus, caution in the selection of materials is paramount.
The broader discussion revolves around whether this practice is in alignment with the Quran and Sunnah or is it an innovation. Some scholars permit the recitation of ruqyah over water and then drinking it. This suggests that if the intent is to read and then drink the water, this is permissible. The emphasis is on recitation and the seeking of blessings, rather than the mechanics of the practice.
There is an awareness among many that such practices should be undertaken only with an understanding of the underlying Islamic principles and with due consideration to the authentic teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. This promotes a balanced approach that values faith, healing, and adherence to established guidelines.
Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, emphasizes the need to avoid practices not based on explicit proofs from the Quran or authentic Sunnah. His statement reflects the broader concern among scholars and the importance of prioritizing authentic Islamic teachings.
The Quran itself speaks about the importance of water, its role in life, and its blessings. The verse "and tell them that the water shall be shared between them" (Quran 54:28) and the Prophet's saying, "Muslims are to share in these three things: water, pasture, and fire," [1] highlight the importance of water in Islam. Extravagance in using water is forbidden, whether in private or public settings.
In conclusion, the permissibility of drinking water infused with Quranic verses is a matter of differing opinions among Islamic scholars. While reciting Quran over water and drinking it, is generally accepted based on the understanding that the Quran is a source of healing, the practice of writing verses and dissolving them in water requires further scrutiny. This is particularly true when the intent is to receive financial gain. Seeking blessings, adhering to authentic Islamic teachings, and acting on the guidance of reputable scholars is paramount in the Islamic approach to healing.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition of "Quranic Water" | Water that has been recited upon, or in which verses from the Quran have been dissolved or written. |
| Permissibility of Recitation and Drinking | Permissible by many scholars, based on the Quran's healing properties. |
| Permissibility of Writing and Dissolving | Permissible by some, with conditions: use of permissible materials like saffron, and undertaken by religiously knowledgeable individuals. |
| Prohibition | Wasting of water, and using it for purposes which could be considered an innovation. Also any method that involves harm (like poisonous ink) |
| Scholarly Views | Differing opinions; some emphasize adhering to the Sunnah and avoiding innovations. Sheikh Ahmad Kutty's stance is a cautionary one. |
| Sources of Information | Quranic verses on healing (Al-Isra, 17:82), prophetic narrations, and scholarly interpretations. |
| Important Note | The Quran is intended for spiritual guidance, not financial gain |
| Water | Muslims are to share in these three things: water, pasture, and fire.\u201d [1] extravagance in using water is forbidden; |
For further reading and information about Islamic rulings and practices, the following website is a reliable resource:
IslamQA.info
