The Basis of Ruqyah in the Sunnah

A Companion recited Surah Al-Fatihah over a tribal leader who had been stung, and he recovered, as recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari. The Prophet ﷺ approved the practice and taught that there is no harm in ruqyah as long as it contains no shirk (Sahih Muslim).

During his final illness, the Prophet ﷺ would recite the Mu’awwidhat and blow over himself (Sahih al-Bukhari), which is the model for self-ruqyah.

Conditions of a Valid Ruqyah

Scholars, including Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari, mention three conditions: it must consist of the Word of Allah, His Names, or sound supplications; it must be in Arabic or in words that are clearly understood; and the one reciting and the one receiving must believe that the recitation has no independent power, and that healing is from Allah alone.

Unknown words, invoking anyone other than Allah, and any claim of guaranteed outcomes invalidate the practice.

Performing Ruqyah on Yourself

Traditionally one begins with wudu and sincere intention, then recites Al-Fatihah, Ayatul Kursi, Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas, blows lightly into the palms, and wipes over the body. Recitation made as a supplication for someone who is absent is a form of du’a; scholars differ over some details, so questions should be taken to a qualified scholar.