Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated tonight that it is not permissible in Islam to enter cemeteries and dig graves in the name of conducting ruqyah or uncovering sorcery. 

Ruqyah is an incantation or supplication in Islamic practice to seek healing or protection from harm, relying strictly on the Quran or Sunnah. 

In a post shared on Facebook today, Minister Shaheem said that he had been made aware of some instances where persons have dug graves in the name of conducting Ruqyah Shar'iyya, and warned that this is not proven practice in either the Quran or Sunnah. 

Shaheem explained that Ruqyah Shar'iyyah concerns recitation of Quran seeking healing for the sick, blowing on them, or reciting over water and having the affected drink this water, or incantation and supplication of Dua from authentic Sunnah. 

"Hence, entering cemeteries and digging graves or looking for sorcery are strictly haram [forbidden] acts," Shaheem stated. 

Shaheem said that of late, he has come to learn of persons conducting several actions under the guise of Ruqyah which are not permissible through Shariah. He urged caution against such acts.

"It is Allah who provides healing from ailments. Islam instructs us to pray, make dua and seek treatment," Shaheem said.