Is it permissible to wear an evil eye bead (nazar boncuğu) to protect against the evil eye?

Although the exact nature and manner of the evil eye are not definitively known, it is religiously acknowledged that some people’s glances can cause negative effects. In a hadith, it is stated: “Seek refuge with Allah from the evil eye, for the evil eye is real.” (Ibn Majah, Tibb, 32 [3508]). It is reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) would recite Ayat al-Kursi, al-Ikhlas, and al-Mu'awwidhatayn (al-Falaq and al-Nas) for protection against the evil eye; he also advised his companions to recite these, and he would directly supplicate to Allah the Almighty for protection from the evil eye. (See Bukhari, Tibb, 32-38 [5735-5742]; Tirmidhi, Tibb, 16 [2058]; Ibn Majah, Tibb, 32-36 [3508-3525]; Kamil Miras, Tecrid Translation, 12/90)

After following the Prophet’s recommendations regarding the evil eye, it is a requirement of Islamic belief to expect the outcome from Almighty Allah. In our religion, attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs that attribute ultimate effect to anyone or anything other than Allah are prohibited. Therefore, it is not permissible to wear an evil eye bead or similar items, or to attach them anywhere, with the hope of gaining benefit from them. Regarding those who engage in such practices, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever wears an amulet, may Allah not fulfill his need.” (Ahmad b. Hanbal, al-Musnad, 4/154 [17440]). In another hadith, it is stated that a person who wears an amulet and attributes protective power to it would be associating partners with Allah. (Ahmad b. Hanbal, al-Musnad, 4/156 [17458]) To protect oneself from the evil eye, one should abandon such superstitions and recite the supplications taught by the Prophet (peace be upon him). (See Bukhari, Tibb, 32-38 [5735-5742]; Tirmidhi, Tibb, 16 [2058]; Ibn Majah, Tibb, 32-36 [3508-3525]; Kamil Miras, Tecrid Translation, 12/90) In this context, in addition to the surahs al-Falaq and al-Nas, the following supplication that the Prophet (peace be upon him) recited for his grandchildren should also be recited: “I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from every devil, poisonous creature, and every evil eye.” (Bukhari, Ahadith al-Anbiya, 10 [3371])

Source: T.C. Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Din İşleri Yüksek Kurulu