Ruqyah Shar’iyyah is one of the legitimate means in Islam for seeking healing from physical, psychological, and spiritual ailments. It involves reciting verses from the Holy Qur’an and authentic Prophetic supplications, with complete belief that healing comes from Allah alone. One of the most well-known forms of ruqyah is reciting over water, a practice deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and supported by reports from the early scholars and righteous predecessors.
What Is Ruqyah with Water?
Ruqyah with water refers to the act of reciting Qur’anic verses and du’as over clean water, which is then drunk, used for washing, or sprinkled in the home. The purpose is to seek healing from illnesses, spiritual harm, envy, or anxiety. The essential condition is that the recitation must include words from the Qur’an, the Names and Attributes of Allah, and be free from any forbidden or superstitious elements. Belief must always remain that the ruqyah is a means — not the source — and that Allah is the ultimate Healer.
Steps for Performing Ruqyah on Water
Sincere Intention: Begin with a sincere niyyah (intention) that the ruqyah is performed solely for Allah’s sake and as a means of seeking His healing — not believing the water or the reciter has power in itself.
Purity: It is recommended that the reciter be in a state of wudu’ (purity) and use clean or blessed water, such as Zamzam or fresh drinking water.
Recitation: Recite the following verses and surahs clearly and calmly:
Surah Al-Fatihah
Ayat Al-Kursi (Al-Baqarah 2:255)
The last verses of Surah Al-Baqarah
Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas
Verses of healing, such as:
“And We send down from the Qur’an that which is healing and mercy for the believers.” (Al-Isra 17:82)
“And when I am ill, it is He who cures me.” (Ash-Shu’ara 26:80)
Blowing into the Water: After reciting, lightly blow (nafth) into the water three times with a small amount of breath and moisture, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Usage: The person seeking healing can drink the water, bathe with it, or sprinkle it in their home — especially in corners believed to hold negative energy or spiritual disturbance.
Rules and Guidelines for Legitimate Ruqyah
The ruqyah must be free from unknown phrases, symbols, or magical formulas.
It should not involve exaggerated fees; the practice is an act of worship, not a commercial service.
It is preferred for a person to perform ruqyah on themselves, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) did, to strengthen faith and self-reliance on Allah.
Ruqyah is not a replacement for medical treatment, but a complementary spiritual remedy that works alongside physical care.
Benefits of Ruqyah with Water
Reciting over water has both spiritual and psychological effects, as it helps to:
Relieve anxiety, fear, and sadness.
Protect against envy, evil eye, and negative energy.
Strengthen one’s connection to Allah and enhance inner peace.
Promote healing and energy balance within the body.
In Conclusion
Ruqyah with water is a beautiful blend of faith and healing, reminding believers that the Qur’an is not only a source of guidance but also a cure for hearts and bodies. When practiced with sincerity, humility, and strong belief in Allah’s mercy, its effects can be deeply transformative.
Allah says: “And when I am ill, it is He who cures me.” (Ash-Shu’ara 26:80) —
True healing lies in faith, and the Qur’an is its purest remedy.
