Can Envy Cause Death? Islamic Ruling Explained
Many people wonder whether envy or the evil eye can cause death. Learn what Islamic scholars and Egypt's Dar Al-Ifta say about the effects of envy and the evil eye.
Can Envy Cause Death? Islamic Scholars Explain
Envy is one of the condemned traits in Islam, and Muslims are instructed to seek Allah's protection from the harm of the envious. Many people ask whether envy or the evil eye can actually lead to death, and Islamic scholars have addressed this issue based on the Qur'an and the Sunnah.
Can the Evil Eye Lead to Death?
Egypt's Dar Al-Ifta confirms that the evil eye is real and supported by authentic Prophetic traditions. However, every event occurs only by the decree and will of Allah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "The evil eye is real, and if anything could precede divine decree, it would be the evil eye."
Some narrations also indicate that the evil eye may cause severe harm by Allah's permission, but it never acts independently of His decree.
Scholars' Opinions
Some scholars explain that the evil eye may become a cause of serious harm, including death, if Allah wills. Others emphasize that it is not permissible to claim that a specific person's death was caused by envy without clear evidence, as such matters belong to the unseen known only to Allah.
The Difference Between Envy and the Evil Eye
Envy is the desire for another person's blessings to disappear, while the evil eye refers to harm that may result from someone's gaze by Allah's permission. Islam teaches believers to seek protection through remembrance of Allah and authentic supplications.
How Can Muslims Protect Themselves?
Scholars recommend maintaining daily remembrance of Allah, reciting Surah Al-Fatihah, Ayat Al-Kursi, Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas, offering abundant prayers upon the Prophet ﷺ, and relying upon Allah while avoiding superstition.
The Islamic View of Envy
Islam strongly condemns envy because it harms the envier more than the one being envied. It fills the heart with resentment and dissatisfaction, while every blessing remains under Allah's absolute control and wisdom.
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