Q 2: I heard a knowledge-seeker say: along with Ruqyah (reciting Qur'an and saying supplications over the sick seeking healing) that is recited for the person afflicted with the evil eye, these words should be said, "A restrainer restrains; a hard stone and a flaming fire; the evil eye will be turned away!" When I asked him about the proof for what he had said, he told that this was reported from some of the Salaf (Righteous Predecessors). So, is there an authentic source for these words? Can they be said to treat anyone afflicted with the evil eye? If they are really attributed to some Salaf, does this stand as proof?May Allah reward you with the best.

A: The words mentioned above have not been reported neither from the Prophet (peace be upon him) nor any of his Companions and we do not know their origin as they sound strange. The treatment of the influence of evil eye is carried out through Qur'anic Ayahs (verses), the Prophet's supplications, and what was authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) about the necessity of bathing for `A'in (one who casts an evil eye). Ibn Shihab narrated that Abu Umamah ibn Sahl ibn Hunayf said: `Amir ibn Rabi`ah saw Sahl ibn Hunayf bathing, so he said, "I have never seen before such beautiful skin which is like the skin of a virgin." Consequently, Sahl fell down [without being able to move]. So he was brought to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)..., then the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) called for `Amir and was very angry with him and said, "What may one kill his brother for? Would you please invoke the blessing of Allah! You should bathe for his sake." Consequently `Amir washed his face, both hands, elbows, knees, feet's tips and inside his Izar (garment worn below the waist) by a bowl then he poured the bathing water upon Sahl, thus Sahl became healthy and sound and went out with people. Narrated by Ahmad and Malik in Al-Muwatta' and Ibn Majah. (Part No. 1; Page No. 112) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.