How does Islam see hypnosis?

In Islam, hypnosis is generally viewed with caution, particularly due to its associations with states of altered consciousness that may lead to spiritual or psychological risks. A significant reference regarding this topic can be found in a hadith that discusses the Prophet Muhammad's experience with magic, which some scholars draw parallels with hypnosis.

In Sahih al-Bukhari, it is narrated that The Prophet (peace be upon him) was bewitched, and 'Al-Layth wrote to Hisham that he heard and memorized from his father from Aisha that the Prophet was bewitched until it seemed to him that he was doing things that he was not actually doing. Sahih al-Bukhari 59:78SunniSAHIH. This account highlights how the Prophet was affected by an external influence that altered his perception and actions, which is similar to the concerns surrounding hypnosis, where a person might be influenced against their will or awareness.

Moreover, the hadith continues, describing how the Prophet was informed about his condition and that it was caused by a specific individual. He then indicated that he had been healed by Allah and chose not to remove the source of the magic because he feared it might cause harm to people. This illustrates the potential dangers associated with such practices, leading many Islamic scholars to advise against engaging in hypnosis, particularly if it involves elements that could compromise one’s faith or wellbeing.

Thus, while hypnosis itself is not explicitly mentioned in the Qur'an, the cautionary principles derived from the Prophet's experience suggest that practices which may alter one's mental state should be approached with care and discernment in Islam.