In the Name of Allāh.
Sadly, one of the misleading beliefs that are prevalent in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, is the notion that an individual’s life can be extended at the expense of another or that someone’s destiny (glory) can be seized or swapped.
These beliefs, supported by the influence of obnoxious movies produced in our land, suggest that certain spiritualists possess the ability to steal from a person’s lifespan to allow another person to live longer. This practice is often referred to by various names, such as Ìràpadà (life renewal or redemption) in Yorùbá culture, which describes a spiritual procession carried out to assist those who are gravely ill in renewing their lives. It begs the question: should we be surprised at the frequent occurrences of ritual killings around us?
This notion is utterly misguided and stands in stark contrast to reality. Consider how many affluent and powerful individuals have succumbed to death resulting from illnesses, as sorcerers and spiritualists failed to prolong their lives.
In light of the alarming rise in ritual killings (human sacrifices), we must confront and refute the dangerous and false beliefs spread by the chief deceiver, Ash-Shayṭān, and his agents among both Jinn and humanity. When our designated time to leave this world arrives, no spiritualist or sorcerer can perform any wonder to alter it. Allāh makes this clear when He states: “And Allāh grants respite to none when his appointed time (death) comes. And Allāh is All-Aware of what you do.” [Sūrah Al-Munāfiqūn (63): 11]
More so, we must firmly believe that everyone’s Rizq (sustenance) has already been determined, with each person destined to enjoy their allotted share, and that no one can take or exchange another person’s provisions. Jābir Ibn ‘Abdullāh narrated that Allāh’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: “O people, fear Allāh and be moderate in seeking a living, for no soul will die until it has received all its provision, even if it is slow in coming. So fear Allāh and be moderate in seeking provision; take that which is permissible and leave that which is forbidden.” [Sunan Ibn Mājah 2144]
How can it be so when Allāh, the All-Knowing, has already ordained each individual’s sustenance and will ensure its completion before their demise? Let us cast aside the absurd beliefs of the disbelievers and adhere steadfastly to the clear guidance of Islām. Truly, no person will die before receiving their appointed provision, and no form of sorcery or spiritualist can change what Allāh has decreed.
I beseech Allāh to shield us from the falsehoods of the disbelievers and to grant us perseverance in following righteousness. Aameen.
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