Evil Eye and Jealousy in Islam: A Camel to the Pot, a Man to the Grave!

Let’s go back 1,400 years to an ordinary day in Madinah. There is a well-known incident which is a clear reminder of how jealousy in Islam can strike when praise is given without dua. The evil eye in the Quran and Sunnah is not superstition; it is a real form of harm that can affect the body, emotions, and daily life.

Sahl ibn Hunayf (RA) was bathing when a companion, admiring the brightness of his skin, unintentionally cast an evil eye. Moments later, Sahl collapsed. The Prophet ﷺ came immediately and advised:  

“If you see something that amazes you, ask Allah to bless it.” (Muwatta Malik 1)  

From this moment in the Prophet’s ﷺ era, Muslims learned that recognising the signs of evil eye in Islam and seeking protection from evil eye in Islam is essential for safeguarding the heart and soul.

Hidden Fire of the Heart

Jealousy in Islam is a feeling that quietly eats the heart. Islam recognizes it not just as an ordinary emotion but a spiritual danger. Even unspoken envy can lead to harm as highlighted in the evil eye in the Quran and Sunnah.

By recognising the signs of evil eye in Islam and seeking protection spiritual harm, we can calm this fire and protect ourselves.

Understanding the Evil Eye in the Quran

The Quran directly guides us on seeking protection from hidden harm, including the evil eye in the Quran, through the last two chapters: Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas.

In Surah Al-Falaq, Allah says:

‍"Say: I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak, from the evil of what He created, from the evil of darkness, from those who practice witchcraft, and from the evil of the envier when he envies.” (Surah Al- Falaq: 1-5)

And in Surah An-Nas, Allah teaches:

"Say: I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind, the Sovereign of mankind, the God of mankind, from the evil of the whisperer who whispers into the hearts of mankind." (Surah An-Nas: 1-6)

These Surahs provide clear guidance for protection from evil eye in Islam.

How Jealousy Fuels the Evil Eye?

Even small moments of jealousy can have unseen effects. Imagine a colleague being praised for a project at work and if admiration turns into jealousy, the hidden fire in the heart can unintentionally cast the evil eye, that is recognised as jealousy in Islam and the evil eye in the Quran.

Jealousy can affect confidence and wellbeing. Therefore, seeking protection from evil eye in Islam is so important.

Signs of Evil Eye in Islam: Islamic Guidance to Recognise Its Effects

The signs of envy in Islam are subtle, but their effects can appear in clear ways if we know what to look for.  

Someone may experience sudden fatigue, unexplained illness, repeated failures, or loss of blessings despite sincere effort. Emotional changes like increased anxiety, sadness, or irritability can also be a sign. Children and loved ones may act unusually or lose confidence without a clear reason.

Islam teaches us to recognise these signs, so we can respond with faith. Awareness of jealousy in Islam can help in seeking protection from evil eye in Islam.

The Reality of the Evil Eye from Sunnah

The Prophet ﷺ warned clearly about the harm of the evil eye. He ﷺ said:

“The evil eye is real, and if anything were to overtake the divine decree, it would be the evil eye.” (Sahih Muslim 5421)

This shows that the evil eye in Islam is not superstition, it is a real phenomenon that can affect health, wealth, and wellbeing.

Practical Guidance for Protection from Evil Eye in Islam

Islam provides practical guidance for protection from evil eye and jealousy.

Recite Surah Al-Falaq and An-Nas Daily

These last two chapters of the Quran are spiritual shields against envy and hidden harm. You can recite them over yourself, children, family, and belongings for consistent protection. Incorporate them into morning and evening routines to maintain a spiritual barrier.

Seek Refuge in Allah Through Dua

The Prophet ﷺ used to seek refuge in Allah for Al‑Hasan and Al‑Husain and said:

أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ مِنْ كُلِّ شَيْطَانٍ وَهَامَّةٍ، وَمِنْ كُلِّ عَيْنٍ لَامَّةٍ

"I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from every devil and every poisonous pest, and from every envious evil eye." (Sahih al-Bukhari 3371)

Make a habit of making dua before leaving home, before meals, or during moments of admiration.  

Begin eating, drinking, travelling, or working with Bismillah. This invites Allah’s blessings and shields the action from harmful influences.

Give Charity (Sadaqah)

Charity purifies the heart and acts as protection from misfortune caused by envy.

Avoid Boasting the Blessings

Sharing achievements or blessings is a natural urge. But do it modestly to reduce jealousy from others. Focus more on humility.

Recite Ayat al-Kursi and Morning/Evening Adhkar

Ayat al-Kursi is the biggest shield given by Allah. It is especially recommended after each prayer for safeguarding yourself and loved ones.

Morning and evening adhkar cover the day and night, offering ongoing protection.

Final Reflection

Guard your heart with faith because jealousy in Islam fades when Allah’s protection is near.