Q 3: I got seriously ill and my family members and neighbors collectively concluded that a Qarin (a personal Jinn companion for humans) had possessed me. When I was informed that I must rid myself of this Qarin through incantations and the like, I refused. Actually, I find comfort in reading the Qur'an and Islamic-related books and listening to the Hadith. I also love Ahl-ul-Bayt (members of the Prophet's extended Muslim family), particularly Al-Husayn and Zaynab and love visiting them. Is this wrong?

A: It is not permissible for Muslims to go to sorcerers, to use talismans, or incantations that involve Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship). Instead, one should seek treatment through known medicines prescribed by doctors or through Islamically lawful invocations read by persons who perform Ruqyah (reciting Qur'an and supplications over the sick as a cure). It is not permissible for a Muslim to visit graves and supplicate there. Invoking the dwellers of the graves is (Part No. 1; Page No. 253) a major Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship that takes the Muslim out of Islam). Love of Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) and his household is an act of worship that brings one closer to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) on condition that a Muslim carries out His orders and avoids things He prohibits. It should be noted that women's visiting of the graves is not permissible according to the preponderant opinion of scholars, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) cursed women who visit graves.