Do Evil Eye Symbols Even Work?
For centuries, the concept of the evil eye has played a role in shaping our cultural beliefs and practices. However, over time, there has been ongoing debate surrounding the true nature of the evil eye and its influence on our lives. Opinions on it have been quite diverse often influenced by cultural teachings or the theories of others and their assumptions. This diversity of perspectives has, at times, led to misconceptions about what the evil eye really is and whether seeking protection using evil eye symbols actually works.
Upon delving into the concept of the evil eye talismans, it has become apparent that the beliefs we hold often diverge from Islamic teachings or Hadiths and therefore it’s crucial we question long-held cultural beliefs passed down through generations, as they influence our thoughts and actions towards others.
Islamic perspective on the evil eye
In Islam, the evil eye, known as “al-‘ayn,” is rooted in a manifestation of envy or jealousy and can have a negative impact on the person it has been directed at causing harm, illness, and death.
The power attributed to the evil eye is not inherent in the eye itself like the eye itself has some kind of magical power. No, no, no, it’s about the negativity that arises from someone’s jealous or malicious gaze. This comes from the understanding that Allah (SWT) has created both good and bad things in the world, and envy is one of those unfortunate negative traits to befall a human.
The influence of an evil eye is a fact; if anything would precede the destiny it would be the influence of an evil eye, and when you are asked to take bath (as a cure) from the influence of an evil eye, you should take a bath.
— Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Still, Islam teaches that Allah is ultimately in control. The evil eye is seen as a test in life, and as believers, we are encouraged to seek protection from it. That’s why there are practices like taking a bath to cleanse oneself from its influence, as mentioned by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Ibn Abbas reported Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) as saying: “The influence of an evil eye is a fact; if anything would precede the destiny it would be the influence of an evil eye, and when you are asked to take a bath (as a cure) from the influence of an evil eye, you should take a bath.” 1
These wise words of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) state clearly that we should seek protection, and this is made very clear through ayahs in the Quran. Surahs such as Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An Nas are often referenced when discussing protection from the evil eye and seeking refuge in Allah (SWT) from the envious glance of others or other sources of negativity.
Surah Al-Qalam mentions the concept of the evil eye, but it’s about more than that. It teaches us about faith, doing what’s right, and following Allah’s guidance. It reminds us to stay strong in our beliefs and to ask Allah for protection from anything that might harm us.
So what about symbols that are believed to shield against the evil eye?
Nowadays, the latest trend is to wear the amulet or flash the evil eye symbol on social media thinking it shields us from harm but in reality, it does nothing for our protection. We know that Islam teaches us to trust in Allah (SWT) alone for safety.
If anything, evil eye symbols and talismans, including charms, amulets, and emblems, that are said to protect against evilness fall under the category of “shirk” (disbelieving in Allah). It is forbidden for Muslims to believe that anything except Allah (SWT) holds a surreal power to provide protection.
Ruwaifi’ bin Thabit said: “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: ‘O Ruwaifi, you may live for a long time after me, so tell the people that whoever ties up his beard, or twists it, or hangs an amulet, or cleans himself (after relieving himself) with animal dung or bones, Muhammad has nothing to do with him.’” 2
What evil eye is NOT
Over the years, I’ve encountered many people who make me wonder if they truly grasp the weight of the evil eye and accuse someone of giving them the evil eye. Often, these people seem misinformed, just echoing what they’ve heard without questioning it.
They’ll throw around blame like, “I didn’t pass my exam because someone put an evil eye on me,” instead of owning up to their lack of preparation.
They’ll throw around blame like, “I didn’t pass my exam because someone put an evil eye on me,” instead of owning up to their lack of preparation.
Another common one is “My child won’t eat and this is because someone said they looked too healthy yesterday”. “My child fell off the table because of evil eye” ignoring the fact they should have not been climbing the table in the first place. The list is endless.
I’ve heard some truly absurd claims about the evil eye and it is often disheartening to hear but at the same time it is these misconceptions that slip into superstition, leading us astray from the true seriousness of the evil eye. Islam teaches us to trust in Allah SWT’s plan, not in random signs or superstitions.
Linking every mishap to the evil eye is just not logical. It steers us away from clear thinking and pushes us deeper into ignorance. Instead of looking at things logically, we blame the evil eye, ignoring and dismissing alternative explanations rooted in natural human behaviour, it takes away our ability to confront challenges with clarity and to take accountability for our own actions.
How to ACTUALLY protect yourself from the evil eye
It is our individual duty to protect ourselves through dua and prayer. Here are a few duas that can be recited to seek protection from evil eye and other types of harm.
- Chapters Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas from the Quran are often recited for general protection from all kinds of harm, including the evil eye.
- Say the dua: “A’udhu bi kalimatillahi at-tammati min sharri ma khalaq,” which means: “I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.”
- Recite the dua: “Hasbiyallahu la ilaha illa Huwa, alayhi tawakkaltu wa Huwa Rabbul Arshil Adhim.” It means: “Allah is Sufficient for me; there is no deity except Him. I have placed my trust in Him, and He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne.”
- Also say: “Bismillahi arqeeka, min kulli shay’in yu’dheeka, min sharri kulli nafsin aw aynin hasidin, Allahu yashfeek, bismillahi arqeek.” This one means: “In the name of Allah, I perform ruqyah (recitation for healing) for you, from everything that is harming you, from the evil of every soul or envious eye, may Allah cure you, in the name of Allah, I perform ruqyah for you).”
While we comprehend that duas are important, we also have a responsibility to avoid flaunting our blessings and expecting no repercussions as negativity can arise from such actions.
The bottom line
The evil eye is indeed a serious matter, it should not be invoked to explain every failure or calamity. Understanding its true nature and educating ourselves is paramount. Using the concept of the evil eye to shift blame onto others for personal gain or to avoid accountability diminishes its significance and in effect turns into sinful behaviour.
Our thoughts have power, sure, but spiralling into paranoia over every little thing is no way to live. Remember, what’s meant to be is determined by Allah (SWT) alone. Instead of getting caught up in superstitions that revolve around evil eye symbols, let’s focus on genuine faith and reliance on Allah’s (SWT) guidance that’s where true protection lies thereby contributing to rational thinking which maintains our strong and grounded faith.
