Does the evil eye only affect muslims?

The concept of the evil eye is discussed in both Sunni and Shia sources, and it is understood to have effects that can harm individuals regardless of their faith. The Qur'an itself does not specify that the evil eye only affects Muslims; rather, the belief is that it can impact anyone who is vulnerable to it.

In Sahih Muslim, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ affirmed, The evil eye is true. Sahih Muslim 39:55SunniSAHIH This statement indicates a general acknowledgment of the reality of the evil eye's effects. Furthermore, another narration from Sahih Muslim states, The evil eye is true, and if anything were to precede destiny, it would be the evil eye. Sahih Muslim 39:56SunniSAHIH This highlights that the evil eye operates within the framework of divine decree, affecting individuals based on various circumstances rather than their faith alone.

Tafsir Ibn Kathir explains that the evil eye can overpower a person with Allah's permission, causing harm, and emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in Allah through prescribed supplications. This protection is made available to all who believe, but the susceptibility to the evil eye is considered a human vulnerability rather than a limitation based on religious belief.

In Shia sources, it is similarly noted that the effects of the evil eye can be observed in various contexts, and it is not confined to a specific group of people. For example, Majma al-Bayan discusses the nature of the evil eye and its capacity to affect anyone, indicating that its impact is not exclusive to Muslims (Majma al-Bayan fi Tafsir al-Qur'an).

Overall, the understanding of the evil eye within Islamic teachings suggests that it can affect all individuals, irrespective of their religious affiliation.