The Most Frightening Book of Magic in the History of Islam - Mystery Hunter

 Talismans and magical spells in Islam

The realms of metaphysics and the supernatural have a strong allure for many people as they offer the possibility of other dimensions beyond our limited understanding of the physical world. It turns out that the study of metaphysics and the supernatural has also been explored in the classical texts of Islamic literature. 

One of the most famous and controversial books in this regard is the work of Ahmad bin Ali Al Buni, an esteemed Muslim scholar from the past. For his supporters, this book is seen as a spiritual guide that helps readers to get closer to Allah. However, for its critics, the book is considered a compendium of dark spells that ensnare readers into the world of magic. 

What is the forbidden content of this book circulating in the Middle East, and why are its phrases accused of teaching magic? Watch the video for an explanation.

The History of Magic in Islam

In Islam, there is an understanding and study of the metaphysical and supernatural dimensions found in the Quran, hadith, and Islamic religious traditions. The relevant concept in this study is known as "Al Ghaib," which refers to realities or dimensions that cannot be observed or understood through human senses or conventional scientific methods. 

This includes the existence of Allah, which cannot be directly seen by humans, as well as the Day of Judgment, angels, jinn, and other aspects related to the unseen realm. Some scholars choose to explore the spiritual aspects through esoteric spirituality using a mystical approach known as "Tasawwuf" or Sufism.

 Ahmad bin Ali Al Buni and the Controversial Book

In the 13th century, a prominent Sufi figure named Ahmad bin Ali Al Buni was born in Algeria. He was known as a mathematician, philosopher, and renowned Sufi scholar. Al Buni later wrote a controversial book that has been a topic of debate in the Middle East for centuries. 

The book is called "Syams Al Ma'arif," authored by Al Buni. It is a treatise on the qualities and uses of each of the 99 names of Allah. According to Al Buni, each name has its own specific power associated with it. For example, by repeatedly reciting "Al Alim" (the All-Knowing), a person would attain divine knowledge, while reciting "Al Qawi" (the All-Powerful) would grant divine protection.

Al Buni claimed that the mention of the Divine Names in the book is what allows for miraculous events to occur, as seen in the history of the Quran, such as the miracles of Prophet Isa (Jesus) resurrecting the dead and Prophet Musa (Moses) speaking directly to God. 

These claims are in accordance with Sufi beliefs. However, the book became controversial when Al Buni introduced a guide on how to create talismans using the names of Allah, referred to as "raja" or magical spells. These are a collection of letters or phrases that form a specific pattern believed to have magical properties.

The Controversy and Criticism

The book contains various spells or talismans for specific purposes, such as agriculture, wealth accumulation, and even finding true love. It is through these talismans that Al Buni was accused of opening the door to contact with jinn and other supernatural beings. 

This attitude led to accusations that he was promoting magic. Al Buni also taught how to summon angels and benevolent jinn to fulfill one's desires, with a warning that one might accidentally summon evil jinn. Calling upon jinn was said to be practiced by Sufi masters because of their elevated spiritual states, which enabled them to act as intermediaries between the spiritual and worldly realms. 

Additionally, Al Buni theorized that the 28 Arabic letters in the Quran all have numerical values. He argued this based on mysterious combinations of standalone letters in the Quran that appear at the beginning of certain chapters.

The inclusion of such magical practices within a religious context caused a significant controversy among Islamic scholars. The Quran strictly prohibits the use of magic and considers it a sinful act. This prohibition is based on the belief that magic involves seeking supernatural powers and manipulating them for personal gain, which goes against the principles of monotheism and reliance on Allah's will.

The Debate and Interpretations

Critics of Al Buni's book argue that his teachings on talismans and magical spells contradict the orthodox understanding of Islam. They view the book as promoting superstition and deviation from the true path of faith. They argue that reliance on Allah and adherence to religious obligations should be the means to seek blessings and guidance, rather than resorting to magical practices.

On the other hand, proponents of Al Buni's work argue that his book is not promoting magic per se, but rather using symbolic language and spiritual practices to facilitate a deeper connection with Allah and the unseen world. They emphasize that the intention behind the use of talismans and spells should be to seek Allah's help and blessings, rather than manipulating supernatural forces for personal gain.

The Ongoing Controversy and Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Al Buni's book continues to this day, with diverse opinions among Islamic scholars and practitioners. Some consider it a valuable spiritual guide that provides insights into the esoteric dimensions of Islam, while others condemn it as an endorsement of forbidden practices. 

It is important to note that the majority of mainstream Islamic scholars discourage the use of magical practices and emphasize the importance of relying on Allah's guidance through prayer, supplication, and adherence to religious teachings.

Controversy in the Islamic community 

The book "Syams Al Ma'arif" by Ahmad bin Ali Al Buni has sparked controversy in the Islamic community due to its inclusion of talismans and magical spells associated with the names of Allah. While some argue that the book provides valuable insights into the esoteric dimensions of Islam and facilitates a deeper spiritual connection, others view it as promoting forbidden practices and deviating from orthodox Islamic teachings. 

The ongoing debate highlights the boundaries of metaphysics, spirituality, and magic within Islam and the diverse perspectives among scholars and practitioners. It is crucial to recognize the Quran's prohibition of magic and emphasize reliance on Allah's guidance through prayer, supplication, and adherence to religious obligations as the means to seek blessings and guidance.