What is the Islamic ruling regarding wearing charms or amulets?
In Islam, the ruling regarding wearing charms or amulets can vary based on the interpretation of different scholars. Some scholars consider the use of such items as permissible under certain conditions, while others advise against it.
One narration states that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was asked about medicines used for healing, amulets worn, and charms avoided. He responded: These are part of the decree of Allah.
Sunan Ibn Majah 32:2. This suggests that such practices can be understood as part of Allah's will, but it does not imply an endorsement of their use without caution.
In Shia tradition, a narration from Al-Kafi indicates that when in a state of Ihram, a man may wear a talisman with buttons on it, as it is permissible. The response was: Yes, it is permissible.
Al-Kafi 3:505. However, it is also noted that a talisman should not be worn until its buttons are removed to avoid any superstitious practices.
Thus, while there are allowances for wearing charms or amulets, it is generally advised to approach this practice with caution, ensuring that it does not lead to reliance on them instead of faith in Allah.
Sources
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Sunan Ibn Majah 32:2
Sunan Ibn Majah · Book 32, Hadith 2 · Narrated by Ibn Abi Khuzama
The Messenger of Allah was asked: 'What about medicines we use for healing, amulets we wear, and charms we avoid?' He said: 'These are part of the decree of Allah.'
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Al-Kafi 3:505
Al-Kafi · Book 3, Hadith 505
When Dharr ibn Abi Dharr died, Abu Dharr wiped the grave with his hand and said: May Allah have mercy on you, O Dharr. By Allah, if you were dutiful to me, you have been taken away, and I am pleased with you. By Allah, I have no loss or grudge, nor do I require anyone except Allah. Were it not for the fear of the hereafter, I would be glad to be in your place. My grief for you distracted me from grieving over you. By Allah, I did not weep for your death but wept over you. I wonder what was said and told to you. Then he said: O Allah, I have devoted to him what You have ordained upon me as my right; so grant him what You have ordained upon him as Your right, for You are more worthy of generosity than I. — OR — I asked him about a man who during Ihram wears a talisman with buttons on it. He said: 'Yes, it is permissible.' In the book of Ali (peace be upon him), it is said that a talisman should not be worn until its buttons are removed. My father narrated to me that this disliked behavior was due to the fear that ignorant people might kiss it. — OR — I asked him about a man who divorced his wife three times, then another man had temporary intercourse (mut'ah) with her. Is she permissible for the first husband? He said, 'No.'
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