Introduction
The following are just a few observations, made in light of things that I have seen (largely in the course of my work) in the last three years. The paranormal or the occult is certainly a field that I have had no prior interest in, nor have done intensive studies of, but repeated cases and situations have inspired me to seek out information from reliable sources, and to understand (and hopefully apply) the perspective as derived from Islamic sources.
This article is by no means exhaustive, nor does it claim to be authoritative. Feedback is welcomed and appreciated. I have had discussions with those who have had a deep background in the occult world and its varied aspects and have taken the time to study one important authoritative text on this subject, written by an academic sympathetic to the occult. However, this article will not cite either the persons in discussion, or the important text-source. The former is to respect the privacy of such people, who have made efforts to change their lives towards a direction of submission to God as portrayed in the Islamic faith, while the former I have opted not to share the title because I do not want to encourage reading of that text, nor of any text associated with the paranormal. I have looked at these subjects only out of necessity, as a means to understand what others are facing as well as attaining protection with God from that realm for myself. The religion of Islam has actually forbidden Muslims to interact with the paranormal, and even that which resembles that realm. Although there are many ahadeeth (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, Sall Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam) on this subject, it seems sufficient to quote only one:
'Abdullah ibn Mas'ood reported that the Messenger of Allah said " Indeed, spells, amulets and charms are (manifestations of) idolatry (shirkun)." (Sunan Abi Dawud 3883).
The occult in the modern world
While it is fashionable to view the occult as obscure rituals, conducted secretly in an isolated location, the reality is that those who openly worship Satan, as well as those who generally have occult interests, or a hatred of religion generally, are often placed in positions of influence, in particular the areas of entertainment, fashion, and the like. One example is the sci-fi writer Don Webb. Another example is Michael A.Aquino, involved in the dissemination of a text known as The Satanic Bible. A quick search online can reveal that he was an academic, seemingly with a life-long interest in the occult, he reportedly saw himself as the "beast" referred to in the Book of Revelations(ft.1). Earlier in his career, he was involved in psyc-ops, using heavy metal music as torture on Vietnamese prisoners.
Many of the popular television shows are produced by agnostics, and they are not shy to share their views on religion as being a primitive force. Seth Macfarlane is a good example. Producer of shows such as FAMILY GUY, AMERICAN DAD and others. He is an open atheist, and any regular viewer of FAMILY GUY can easily recall episodes which ridicule religion.
These are just a few examples of influential figures presenting their social agendas in the guise of entertainment.
The messages coming from entertainment coinciding with occultic agendas
While it can be argued that individual producers, entertainers, etc. are not (knowingly) involved with the occult, let's take a moment to look at the messages delivered to viewers. These shows (which are actually cartoons, which would naturally be appealing to young children) promote disrespect of family structure, deviant sexual practices, hedonistic behavior, abandonment of faith, and extreme individualism.
The above are all well established as agendas for Satanists. It has been observed that they tend to present their worldview as one which seeks an escape from social restrictions, often having their origin in religiously inspired values.
It is my understanding that the proliferation and normalization of intoxicants, single parent homes, the hook-up culture, and so much more are in line with the devilish agenda.
Startling Quranic information on Satan that parallels with the modern world
(1) Satan "whispers" to humans, encouraging them to disrobe. (Q 7:20).
(2) Demonic company is preferred by those without faith (Q 7:27).
(3) Devilish types are selfish by nature, and encourage others to be the same mentality, hoarding wealth, neither investing in business (which promotes economic growth broadly) nor spending in charity (acts which are done to lift up humans in need) (Q 17:27).
(4) The breaking up of families, in the name of petty jealousies and the like (Q 12:100).
(5) Satan uses people's stresses and anxiety as a means of attack. (Q 38:41)
(6) The promotion of "virtual" reality, as opposed to what is actually real (Q 6:71, 47:25).
(7) The promotion of intoxicants, gambling, and occult rituals (Q 5:90-91).
The above parallels are apparent for any who is willing to observe carefully. Thus, it is imperative that we are cognizant of the manner by which Satan inflicts damage.
What about mental health?
This article does not deny that there are many cases of legitimate mental health problems, which has its own methods of treatment. It can be argued (as it has actually been argued by the authors of Broke in America: Seeing, Understanding and Ending U.S. poverty) that many of the conditions mentioned above are in fact the reasons mental health problems exist. After all, those isolated from their families would naturally have reasons to feel insecure.
While it cannot be denied that mental health issues occur, both in a "satanic" and "non-satanic" context, treatment of it has to be physical, moral, social and spiritual.
The occult and relationships
A recurring theme, crossing religious and cultural lines, is the usage of the occult for positive romantic relationships. Spells, curses, amulets, voodoo dolls, and more have been employed to break up relationships, destroy families and create conditions for one person to attain the object of their romantic interest.
The Qur'an mentions a rather profound example of this. The passage (Q 2:102-103) mentions both the kingdom of Solomon and Babylon in connection to figures who would be involved in teaching methods to break up couples. While the passage has much that needs to be discussed further (ft.2), it should be sufficient here to say that the Islamic religion has totally outlawed such activities. Rather, one should pray to God. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has taught famously the prayer for seeking assistance in these regards known as the Istikhaarah prayer (ft.3), and the Qur'an itself has a short du'aa (supplication) that teaches us -in a summarized fashion- that we should avoid obsessions and whimsical attachments, but rather seek that which will be a comfort in this life! For this supplication, go to Q 25:76.
Jinns
Jinns, be they positive or negative, belong to the unseen world, and can largely be associated with the occult. Islam teaches that we are to avoid interaction with that world, and the last two chapters of the Qur'an (Soorah Al Falaq and An Naas) are very affective, when recited, as protection from those invisible forces.
The hadeeth literature (saheeh Al Bukhari 61:530) has also recorded the importance of the recitation of the "throne verse" (Ayatul Kursiyy 2:255) before sleeping. The text speaks of God concept in a clear and beautiful fashion, granting a strengthening of faith, a needed component in surviving Satanic assaults throughout life!
Practical actions
The Qur'an has mentioned many practical areas in which Satan launches attacks. Indeed, in the list above, we can see that if we do the opposite of what Satan is depicted as encouraging, that goes a long way in creating protection. We have placed emphasis on good company, especially in the romantic realm, daily prayer, healthy distance from electronic distractions, exercise, abandoning un-wholesome music and entertainment. Other items, derived from the Quranic texts mentioned above, include public decency, regular acts of charity, building of faith in God, avoiding jealousy (both having it and being the object of it) and consistent reference to Allah in speech.
Jealousy is a powerful emotion. It can also be dangerous, as universally recognized. The last two chapters of the Qur'an points out that whispers can feed jealousy, which is why it functions as a text of protection from this unpredictable feeling.
I believe this is so important, that-atleast to avoid being the object of jealousy ( hasad in Quranic terminology), one should not flaunt one's blessings, especially to those without the same. This is the logic of the Prophet forbidding men from wearing gold and silk. Men are the traditional earners, in public spaces. Wearing such items invites hatred, crime and much more.
Similarly, I think it is important here to avoid sharing too much in public about personal or family business, even if it is positive. Flaunting wealth is also something which needs to be avoided.
If one feels jealous, also recite chapters 113-114 of the Qur'an, say "Maa-shaa Allah" (thus, as God has willed) and remember what the Prophet has said. He -upon whom be peace- has stated that one should not look at the one above, but rather the one below. In other words, you have a blessing already, but you have to recognize it as such.
Footnotes
(1) The Book of Revelations is the Last book in the New Testament. While the history of the text and author is disputed, the point was that Aquino self-identified with evil, as found in the Christian scripture.
(2) Certain terms within the text requires much discussion. Take, for example, Sihr. It is usually translated as "magic" but can have implications that have no relation to the occult (as popularly understood) such as eloquence in speech as well as corruption. Similarly, the text speaks of two beings, who taught methods to break up a married couple. The term can be read "two angels" (malakayn) or as "malikayn" (two kings). An aspect of this is whether or not they are simple similar to (but not precisely) one of the labels mentioned above, both of which have implications in understanding the text. In any case, the text presents a lesson, i.e. that no one experiences anything unless it is by the Divine will. The text which follows (Q 2:103) also states that faith and awareness (attaqoo, i.e. taqwaa) are better, meaning that these two items provide a sufficient protection from evil. It is perhaps these two which often get neglected in the powerful nations, thus, the reference to Solomon's kingdom and the Babylonian civilization.
(3) For more information on the Istikhaarah prayer, see Shamsuddin Waheed: Reflections on Istikhaarah: the priorities of life .
