وَمِن شَرِّ ٱلنَّفَّـٰثَـٰتِ فِى ٱلْعُقَدِ 4
Translations
And from the evil of the blowers in knots
Transliteration
Wa min sharri an-naffathati fi al-'uqad
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to seeking refuge from the evil of those who blow (cast spells) into knots, a practice of witchcraft and sorcery prevalent in pre-Islamic Arabia and beyond. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this as addressing women who engaged in magic by blowing into knots while reciting incantations to cause harm. The ayah teaches believers to seek Allah's protection from all forms of magical harm and occult evil that aim to damage relationships, health, or well-being.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Falaq is a short Meccan surah of protection (ruqyah) that was revealed to provide spiritual refuge for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers. The surah is specifically structured as a series of protections against various forms of evil, with this ayah addressing the particular harm of sorcery and witchcraft, which was a recognized threat in the society of that time.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari reports that the Prophet (peace be upon him) sought refuge in these surahs (Al-Falaq and An-Nas) when he was afflicted with magic. Additionally, Muslim scholars cite traditions warning against practicing witchcraft and sorcery, as these are explicitly forbidden acts in Islam.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers are encouraged to place their trust in Allah's protection against all forms of hidden and overt harm, including witchcraft and malevolent intent, through sincere supplication and reliance on these prescribed verses of protection. This teaches that ultimate safety comes not from fear of others' powers, but from conscious dependence upon Allah alone.