Does Sharia support the use of hypnosis?

Hypnosis (from Latin "hypnos" – sleep) is a state similar to sleep that is artificially induced (Explanatory Dictionary of Psychological Terms, p. 384). Hypnosis occurs as a result of the hypnotist's special influence or through intentional self-suggestion. This method limits a person's freedom of will and increases their submission to another's will.

However, the experience of hypnosis can vary significantly from one person to another. In fact, for hypnosis to work, the person must willingly want to go through the process and have a certain degree of susceptibility to hypnosis.

Today, traditional hypnosis is used to help with many illnesses and difficulties, including:

• Reducing pain caused by cancer, as well as relieving headaches and joint pain;

• Treating patients with chronic illnesses or alleviating pain and anxiety caused by medical procedures such as surgery or childbirth;

• Overcoming addictions to harmful habits such as alcohol or drugs;

• Treating coughs;

• Addressing health issues like insomnia or involuntary urination.

In addition, hypnosis is used for everyday challenges that are not severe. For example, it can help develop interpersonal and intrapersonal skills (such as assertiveness), reduce stress and promote relaxation, overcome stage fright, lose excess weight, or quit smoking.

In Islam, it is forbidden to use hypnosis for purposes that contradict Sharia, such as fortune-telling, sorcery, deception, or fraud.

"(O Muhammad!) Say: 'None in the heavens and earth knows the unseen except Allah.'" (Surah An-Naml, 65)

It is narrated from Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "If you ask, ask Allah! If you seek help, seek help from Allah!" (Tirmidhi).

It is also narrated from Abu Sa'id al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him): "There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm." (Ibn Majah).

Nevertheless, we should always remember that hypnosis performed by a professional doctor can benefit people, while hypnosis learned by fraudsters may serve criminal purposes.

Hasan AMANKUL,

"Munara" newspaper, No. 9, 2023