Ruqiyah is the practice of treating various ailments, including spiritual, mental, and physical illnesses, through the recitation of Qur’anic verses and supplications as prescribed by the Prophet Muhammad SAW. It is a form of seeking healing directly from Allah SWT, reaffirming one’s faith, and relying solely on His power to cure. Ruqiyah is particularly effective against the evil eye, magic, and various physical ailments. The Qur’an is a source of complete healing, as Allah SWT mentions: “And We send down in the Qur’ān that which is a cure and a mercy for the believers” (Qur’ān 17:82).
In this post, we will explore the method of ruqiyah, the conditions necessary for its success, and how to properly implement it in your daily life.
The Spiritual Foundation of Ruqiyah
Ruqiyah is deeply rooted in the belief that the Qur’an and the words of Allah SWT hold immense power to heal. The Messenger of Allah SWT emphasized the importance of using the Qur’ān as a cure, saying: “Make good use of the two cures: honey and the Qur’ān” (Ibn Mājah). This underscores the need for sincere faith and trust in the effectiveness of ruqiyah. The practice not only serves as a means of seeking physical healing but also strengthens one’s faith and Tawhid (belief in the oneness of Allah SWT).
Essential Conditions for Ruqiyah
For ruqiyah to be effective, several conditions must be met:
1. Intention (Niyyah): Ruqiyah is a form of dua, and like all supplications, it should be performed with a pure intention. The primary intention should be to seek Allah’s help in removing the evil or ailment through the words of the Qur’an.
2. Conviction (Yaqin): One must recite the ruqiyah with firm conviction and belief that Allah SWT is the only One who can cure. This strong faith is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment.
3. Patience and Consistency: Like any other form of treatment, consistency is key. Daily recitation, supplications, and adherence to other treatments must be maintained for positive results. Patience is vital, as some ailments may require prolonged periods of treatment before relief is found.
Preparing for Ruqiyah
Before beginning ruqiyah, it is important to spiritually and physically prepare oneself:
1. Purification: Perform wudhū (ablution) to ensure you are in a state of purity. Additionally, offering two rak‘ats (units of prayer) before starting ruqiyah can help you focus and seek closeness to Allah SWT.
2. Du’ā and Istighfār: Make sincere dua, especially during tahajjud (the pre-dawn prayer), asking Allah SWT for His help and mercy. Regularly engage in istighfār (seeking forgiveness from Allah SWT) to purify your heart and soul, and stay away from sins. It is also important to restore any rights if you have wronged someone or taken something unjustly.
3. Sadaqah (Charity): Giving sadaqah is a powerful means of warding off calamities and illnesses. The Prophet Muhammad SAW said: “Treat your sick by giving Sadaqah” (Bayhaqī).
4. Remove Forbidden Items: Ensure that your home is free of any animate pictures, as well as amulets (taweez) that contain illegible text or invoke beings other than Allah SWT. These should be disposed of in a proper manner, such as being thrown into a river.
5. Remain in a State of Wudhu: Stay in a state of wudhu throughout the day and even sleep with wudhu, as this helps maintain spiritual cleanliness.
The Method of Performing Ruqiyah
Once you are prepared, you can begin the process of ruqiyah:
1. Sending Salawat: Start by sending Salawaat (salutations) upon the Prophet Muhammad SAW. This is a means of seeking blessings and ensuring that your duas are accepted.
2. Reciting the Ruqiyah: Recite the ruqiyah loudly, clearly, and with full concentration. The recitation should be done at least three or seven times. You may recite directly into your hands, blow into them, and then rub them over your body. Alternatively, you can place your hands over the part of the body that is in pain and recite while focusing on that area.
3. Blowing on Water: Another method is to recite the ruqiyah and then blow on water. Keep your mouth close to the water, breathe into it, and repeatedly blow over it. This water can then be used for drinking or bathing. This method is particularly useful when treating someone else.
4. Using Sunnah Medicines: You can also recite ruqiyah over olive oil or other Sunnah medicines and apply them to the body. Olive oil, in particular, is recommended as it has both physical and spiritual benefits.
5. Reciting on Others: If you are performing ruqiyah on someone else, place your hand on their forehead (if they are mahram) or on the part of the body that is in pain. Recite the ruqiyah and blow over them. If the person cannot recite for themselves, they can listen to the ruqiyah being recited with full concentration, ensuring that they do not fall asleep during the process.
Common Verses and Supplications Used in Ruqiyah
While there are specific verses and supplications that are traditionally used in ruqiyah, some of the most commonly recited include:
1. Surah Al-Fatiha (Chapter 1 of the Qur’an): Known as the “Opening,” this chapter is a powerful invocation for guidance, mercy, and healing.
2. Ayat Al-Kursi (2:255): This verse is considered one of the most powerful in the Qur’ān, providing protection and healing.
3. The Last Three Surahs (Chapters 112, 113, and 114): These chapters, known as Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas, are particularly effective against the evil eye, magic, and other forms of harm.
Conclusion
Ruqiyah is a profound and spiritually enriching practice that connects a believer directly to the healing power of the Qur’an. It requires sincere faith, patience, and consistency. By following the proper steps and maintaining a strong connection to Allah SWT, one can find relief from various ailments and reaffirm their faith in the process.
It is important to remember that while ruqiyah is a powerful form of treatment, it should be performed with the right intentions and full reliance on Allah SWT. Healing ultimately comes from Him alone, and ruqiyah is a means to seek His mercy and assistance in times of need.