Ruling on going to soothsayers and believing them


A: It is permissible for Muslims to visit an internist, a surgeon, or a neurologist, etc., to diagnose their cases and treat them, based on their medical knowledge, using medicines sanctioned by Shari‘ah (Islamic law), because all this comes under implementation of ordinary means. (Part No. 1; Page No. 559) Allah has not sent down a disease without sending a cure for it; some know it and others do not. However, it is not permissible for a sick person to go to a soothsayer who claims knowledge of Ghayb (the Unseen) to diagnose their illness. It is also not permissible to believe what they say, because they are only guessing the Ghayb, or they evoke the Jinn and seek their help in getting what they want. These people are liars. Seeking the help of the Jinn is an act of Shirk Akbar (major form of associating others in worship with Allah). The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated, Whoever goes to a fortuneteller and asks him about something, their Salah (prayer) will not be accepted for forty nights. Related by Muslim. It is narrated in the Sunan (Books of Hadith) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated, Whoever goes to a soothsayer or a fortuneteller and believes what he says, has disbelieved in that which was revealed to Muhammad. (peace be upon him). Related by Al-Bazzar with a good Isnad (chain of narrators). It is not permissible to undergo what they claim to be a treatment, like pouring lead or other substances over heads, because this is one of the practices of soothsaying. Approving their actions only helps them to continue practicing soothsaying and seeking the help of the Jinn. It is also impermissible to ask a soothsayer about the name of your future daughter in law, or whether there will be harmony or hatred between the couple and between their families. This is part of the Ghayb which no one knows except Allah.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.


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