Human Rights Violations Due to Magic: A Perspective from the Quran

Human rights violations are a grave concern across the world, and when intertwined with the practice of magic, these violations can take on particularly insidious forms. This blog explores the human rights violations related to magic, focusing on the right to life, the right to education, and freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. We will also delve into the Quranic perspective on magic, specifically referencing Surah Al-Baqarah (2:102) and other related verses to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Right to Life

The right to life is the most fundamental of all human rights. However, the use of magic has historically been associated with harm and even death. The Quran addresses the dangers and the wrongful use of magic in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:102), where it narrates how people learned harmful practices from the devils during the reign of Solomon:

> "They followed what the devils used to recite in the reign of Sulaimān (Solomon); and it was not Sulaimān who became an infidel, but the devils did become infidels, teaching people magic, and what had been sent down to the two angels, Hārūt and Mārūt, in Babylon. And these two did not teach anyone without first having said (to him), 'We are but a trial, so do not go infidel.' Then, they used to learn from them that with which they could cause separation between a man and his wife. But they were not to bring harm through it to anyone without the will of Allah. They used to learn what harmed them and did no good to them; and they certainly knew that he who buys it has no share in the Hereafter. And, indeed, vile is the thing for which they sold themselves away. If only they knew!" [Quran, 2:102]

This verse highlights the destructive power of magic, emphasizing its potential to harm and disrupt life, often leading to severe consequences, including death. The emphasis on harm and separation underscores how magic can directly violate the right to life by causing irreversible damage to individuals and families.

Right to Education

The right to education is crucial for the development and empowerment of individuals. However, the practice of magic can hinder this right by promoting superstition and ignorance over knowledge and learning. When people resort to magic, they often abandon rational and scientific ways of understanding the world. This can lead to a society where education is undervalued and superstition reigns supreme.

In the Quran, the emphasis on seeking knowledge is clear. The first revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was:

> "Read in the name of your Lord who created. Created man from a clot. Read, and your Lord is the most Generous—Who taught by the pen—Taught man that which he knew not." [Quran, 96:1-5]

This passage underscores the importance of education and learning. Resorting to magic instead of seeking knowledge goes against the Quranic injunctions to learn and educate oneself. It perpetuates ignorance and can prevent individuals from accessing their right to education.

Freedom from Torture or Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

One of the most significant human rights concerns with magic is its potential to inflict torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. The use of magic can involve rituals that cause physical and psychological harm. In extreme cases, accusations of witchcraft have led to torture, persecution, and even execution of innocent people.

The Quran condemns such cruel practices. In Surah Al-Mumtahanah, it is stated:

> "O you who have believed, when the believing women come to you as emigrants, examine them. Allah is most knowing as to their faith. And if you know them to be believers, then do not return them to the disbelievers; they are not lawful [wives] for them, nor are they lawful [husbands] for them. But give the disbelievers what they have spent. And there is no blame upon you if you marry them when you have given them their due compensation. And hold not to the ties of disbelieving women, but ask for what you have spent, and let them ask for what they have spent. That is the judgment of Allah; He judges between you. And Allah is Knowing and Wise." [Quran, 60:10]

While this verse deals specifically with the treatment of believing women, the underlying principle is the prohibition of unjust and cruel treatment. The Quran promotes justice, compassion, and humane treatment for all, opposing any form of torture or inhuman practices, including those associated with magic.

Conclusion

The practice of magic can lead to severe human rights violations, affecting the right to life, the right to education, and freedom from torture or cruel treatment. The Quran provides a clear stance against the harmful use of magic, emphasizing the importance of seeking knowledge, preserving life, and ensuring humane treatment for all individuals. By adhering to these Quranic principles, societies can work towards eliminating the injustices associated with magic and uphold the fundamental human rights of all individuals.