Prophetic

Definition

Ar-Ruqyah (الرقي): A formula (consisting of supplications and may also include light spitting) employed by the one who is struck by disease like being poisoned or Jinn possession, etc. and other than that from the various diseases (Ibnul Atheer).

Types of Ruqyah
There are two types of Ruqyah: Legislative Ruqyah (الرقي الشرعية) and the polythiestic Ruqyah (الرقي الشركية) which is forbidden. The legislative Ruqyah must fulfll the following conditions:
1) that it is a Ruqyah using the Words of Allah the Most High, or by His Names & Attributes, or using Prophetic du'aas (supplications)
2) That it is (recited) in the Arabic language or by what (ever language) it's meanings are known.
3) that the (the patient) believes that the Ruqyah itself cannot effect him but that the effectiveness is from Allah the Most High, and;
4) that the Ruqyah does not (contain) any prohibited feature, for example the Ruqyah is perfomed during janaabah (major impurity), or in a grave or toilet.

Ibn Hajr said (Fath 10/206) "The Scholars have agreed upon the permissibilty of Ruqyah when these conditions are all met." [Refer to Ar-Ruqiyatush-Shar'eeyah, D. Abdullah at-Tayyaar, p.79]

Evidences from the Qur'aan and Sunnah
The evidence for using Qur'aan for Ruqyah and it's effectiveness in treating both physical and spiritual diseases is established in the statement of Allah: "And We send down of the Qur'ân that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe " [017:082]

The practise of Ruqyah pre-dates the appearance of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula and was refined and purified by the Prophet (upon him be salah and salam). In one Hadeeth, a family from the Companions came to the Prophet (upon him be salah and salam) and read to him a Ruqyah, seeking his approval, which they employed for scorpion stings. After hearing the Ruqyah and seeing that it contained nothing polythiestic, the Prophet (upon be salah and salam) said: "I see no harm in it, whoever among you is able to help his brother, should do so." [Bukhaaree] This incident was likely to be in response to his saying: "Show me your Ruqyahs, there is no harm in Ruqyah as long as there is no Shirk in it." [Muslim (5457)]

The evidences regarding this subject are abundant and will be presented along with the method of recitation, over several research papers (insha'Allah).

Medical Uses
Ruqyah, as long as it's conditions are met, can be employed in treating any physical or spiritual disease or affliction. This includes:
• Jinn possession
• Magic
• Evil eye
• Scorpion stings

Ruqyah can also be combined with other Prophetic treatments like Hijamah and fasting.

© A Majothi