What Is Ruqyah According to Islamic Tradition
Summary Answer
Ruqyah is a traditional Islamic practice that involves reciting Quranic verses, duas, and words of remembrance to seek Allah’s protection, comfort, and spiritual well-being. It is an act of worship rooted in the Quran and Sunnah, performed to seek relief from spiritual discomfort and negative influences. Ruqyah is a spiritual practice and does not replace medical or psychological care.
Meaning of Ruqyah in Islam
The term Ruqyah comes from the Arabic root raqa, meaning to recite or to seek protection.
In Islamic tradition, Ruqyah is understood as:
An act of seeking Allah’s help
A form of Quranic recitation for comfort
Turning to Allah in times of distress
A means of strengthening faith and spiritual grounding
Ruqyah has been practiced since the time of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and is mentioned in multiple authentic narrations.
Types of Ruqyah Mentioned by Scholars
Ruqyah Shar’iyyah
This form of Ruqyah is based strictly on:
Quranic verses
Authentic prophetic duas
Names and attributes of Allah
Common recitations include:
Surah Al Falaq
Surah An Nas
Ayat ul Kursi
The dua of protection:
Bismillahilladhi la yadurru ma’asmihi shay’un
This is the only approach accepted and practiced at
Personal Dua and Supplication
This includes any dua made in one’s own words, sincerely asking Allah for support.
It is simple, heartfelt, and accessible to all Muslims.
Why Muslims Seek Ruqyah
Muslims seek Ruqyah for many spiritual reasons, such as:
Increasing spiritual comfort
Finding reassurance through Quranic recitation
Strengthening one’s connection with Allah
Seeking protection from negative influences
Cultivating inner calm during difficult times
It is a complementary spiritual practice.
For emotional, physical, or psychological issues, individuals should consult qualified professionals while also engaging in spiritual practices if they choose.
How Ruqyah Is Performed Traditionally
Traditionally, Ruqyah is performed by:
Reciting selected Quranic verses
Reciting prophetic duas
Performing dhikr
Reading supplications for protection
Blowing lightly after reciting (optional and based on fiqh opinion)
The process must always be:
Respectful
Modest
Islamically sound
Free from prohibited practices
Free from innovations
For those seeking guided Ruqyah, practitioner-led sessions are available here:
Authentic Evidence for Ruqyah
Below are well-known references often cited by scholars.
These are educational references and not medical claims.
Quranic References
Surah Al Falaq
Surah An Nas
Ayat ul Kursi
Selected verses from Surah Al Baqarah
Hadith References
Sahih Bukhari
Sahih Muslim
Sunan Abu Dawood
Example narration:
Aisha narrated that the Prophet ﷺ used to recite Al Mu’awwidhatayn (Surah Al Falaq and Surah An Nas) over himself for protection.
Sunnah
Is Ruqyah the Same as Medical Treatment
Ruqyah is a spiritual practice, not a medical treatment.
It is not a replacement for medical or psychological care.
If someone experiences ongoing physical or emotional symptoms, they should seek support from licensed professionals while also engaging in spiritual practices if they choose.
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Basic Steps for Personal Ruqyah at Home
Here is a simple and safe outline of how many Muslims perform Ruqyah personally.
Step 1
Begin with Sincerity
Sit calmly
Face the Qiblah if possible
Set your intention to seek Allah’s help
Step 2
Recite Quranic Verses
Surah Al Falaq
Surah An Nas
Ayat ul Kursi
Any verses you find comforting
Step 3
Make Dua
Ask Allah for protection
Ask for peace of heart
Ask for relief from distress
Step 4
Finish with Dhikr
La ilaha illa Allah
SubhanAllah
Alhamdulillah
Allahu Akbar
Frequently Asked Questions About Ruqyah
Is Ruqyah allowed in Islam
Yes, Ruqyah is permitted when performed according to Islamic guidelines using Quranic recitation and authentic duas.
Can Ruqyah be done online
Many Muslims choose online Ruqyah for convenience.
It must still follow Islamic guidelines and include only Quranic recitation and duas.
Does Ruqyah replace therapy or medical care
No.
Ruqyah is a spiritual practice.
Anyone experiencing medical or emotional symptoms should consult a qualified professional.
Who can perform Ruqyah
Any Muslim may recite the Quran and duas for themselves or others as long as it follow Islamic rulings.
How long does Ruqyah take
There is no set duration.
It depends on the individual and the practitioner’s approach.
Related Articles
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Understanding-The-Evil-Eye-In-Islamic-Tradition
How-To-Prepare-For-a-Ruqyah-Session
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