Prohibition of using magic to counter magic

📖Sunan Abī Dāwūd 3868
Jabir ibn Abdullah reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, was asked about seeking a cure through magic (al-nushrah). He said, “They are among the works of Satan.

In this hadith, “Satan” does not refer only to Iblis, but also to humans who commit evil acts. Magic is an example: it is inspired by evil, yet carried out by people who choose to deceive, harm, and manipulate others. These acts often target families, relationships, and communities, creating corruption, scams, and destruction, Using magic is sinful because it attempts to rival Allah’s power, claiming control over the unseen and spreading corruption. Those who practice it are like “Satan” in their actions, pretending to have authority while serving evil purposes.

The Qur’an warns about such practices:

📖Qur’an 2:102
And they followed what the devils had recited during the reign of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and that which was revealed to the two angels in Babylon, Harut and Marut. But they do not teach anyone unless they say, ‘We are a trial, so do not disbelieve.’ And [yet] they learn from them that by which they cause separation between a man and his wife. But they do not harm anyone through it except by permission of Allah. And they learn what harms them and does not benefit them.

Explanation: This verse shows that even when humans practice magic and believe they have power, it is ultimately by Allah’s permission. Even if humans commit evil, such as practicing magic, it only happens because Allah allows it. This does not mean Allah approves or commands the evil. Rather:

1. Free Will: Humans are granted free will to choose between good and evil. When someone chooses evil, Allah permits it to happen as a test or trial.
2. Sovereignty: Nothing occurs without Allah’s knowledge or permission. Even harmful acts, like magic or deception, happen within His divine control.
3. Accountability: Those who commit evil are fully responsible for their choices. Allah allowing the act does not absolve them; it simply shows His wisdom in permitting trials for humans.
4. Ultimate Good: Even evil actions, in the broader scheme, can serve as a lesson, warning, or means for believers to be tested in patience, faith, or righteousness.

Evil occurs because humans choose it, and Allah allows it as a test, but He is never the source of sin.