The evil eye, known in Arabic as Al-‘Ayn and in Urdu as Nazar, is a powerful and harmful reality that affects people in unseen ways. It occurs when someone looks at another person with jealousy, envy, or even excessive admiration — unintentionally or intentionally — causing spiritual and physical harm.
In Islam, the evil eye is a confirmed truth, mentioned in both the Quran and Hadith. Understanding its meaning and effects is essential for protecting ourselves and our loved ones.
What Is the Evil Eye (Nazar)?
The evil eye refers to the negative energy or harmful spiritual force that comes from an envious or admiring gaze. It can come from anyone — even those who love you — when they admire your beauty, wealth, success, or children without saying “MashaAllah” or making dua for blessing.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
> “The evil eye is real.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This shows that Nazar is not superstition but a spiritual truth recognized in Islam.
How the Evil Eye Works
When a person looks at something with envy or deep admiration, a form of negative energy leaves their heart and gaze. If Allah wills, this energy can harm the one being looked at.
It may cause sudden illness, loss, emotional distress, or unexplained misfortune. Unlike physical harm, the evil eye works in the unseen — it affects the soul, emotions, and health through invisible spiritual means.
Examples of the Evil Eye
A child who suddenly falls sick after being praised for beauty or intelligence.
A business that starts failing after others express jealousy.
A person feeling tired, anxious, or unmotivated after receiving compliments.
Sudden conflicts arising in peaceful relationships without clear reason.
Difference Between the Evil Eye and Black Magic
While both cause spiritual harm, black magic (Sihr) is done intentionally through dark rituals and help from jinn.
The evil eye, however, can be unintentional, caused by jealousy or admiration without remembrance of Allah.
In simple terms:
Black magic = done purposely through shirk and jinn.
Evil eye = caused by envy, often unintentionally.
Signs of Being Affected by the Evil Eye
Some common symptoms include:
Sudden fatigue or laziness
Loss of appetite or mood swings
Headaches without reason
Unexplained sadness or depression
Sleep disturbances or nightmares
Continuous failures despite effort
Loss of blessings — health, money, peace
If medical or logical solutions fail to help, these may be signs of the evil eye.
Quranic View and Islamic Protection
Islam teaches believers to seek refuge in Allah from all unseen evils, including Hasad (envy) and Nazar (evil eye).
The following Quranic verses are powerful protections:
Surah Al-Falaq (113)
Surah An-Naas (114)
Ayat al-Kursi (2:255)
Last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285-286)
Additionally, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to recite Ruqyah over himself and his family for protection against the evil eye.
How to Protect Yourself from the Evil Eye
1. Recite Morning and Evening Duas (Azkar)
Especially Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Naas.
2. Say “MashaAllah” when admiring others or yourself.
3. Avoid showing off blessings unnecessarily on social media.
4. Give charity (Sadaqah) to protect your wealth and health.
5. Keep faith and trust in Allah (Tawakkul) — He is the ultimate protector.
Conclusion
The evil eye (Nazar) is a real and dangerous spiritual harm recognized in Islam. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, wealth, or status.
By understanding its meaning and taking Quranic protection measures, we can guard ourselves and our families from its negative impact.
Remember — all power belongs to Allah, and no harm can touch you except by His permission. Keep your heart pure, your tongue full of remembrance, and your trust strong in Allah.
