Is Calling Fictional Powers “Magic” Disrespectful in Islam?
Answered by Mawlana Ilyas Patel
Question
Is it disrespectful to call fictional powers like flying or light beams “magic,” knowing such abilities can only come from Allah?
Since real Sihr and Jinn’s powers are limited, does labeling fictional abilities as magic diminish Allah’s exclusive power?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
I pray you are in good faith and health. Thank you for your question.
Using the word “magic” in fiction is not inherently haram or disrespectful as long as your beliefs remain clear. Allah alone possesses ultimate and exclusive power. Allah created the cause and the effect in every situation. Magic (sihr) is considered evil and condemned. It’s important to remember that fiction is just that—fiction and not a reflection of theological reality.
However, if you feel uneasy about the term, it is commendable to avoid it out of mindfulness and God-consciousness (taqwa).
Please go through the valuable answers and links below. Insha’Allah, they will provide you with guidance and direction.
Related: What Do We Believe About Causes and Their Effects?
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I pray this helps with your question.
Wassalam,
[Mawlana] Ilyas Patel
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Mawlana Ilyas Patel has received a traditional education in various countries. He started his schooling in the UK and completed his hifz of the Quran in India. After that, he joined an Islamic seminary in the UK, where he studied secular and Aalimiyya sciences. Later, he traveled to Karachi, Pakistan, and other Middle Eastern countries to further his education. Mawlana has served as an Imam in the Republic of Ireland for several years and taught the Quran and other Islamic sciences to both children and adults. He also worked as a teacher and librarian at a local Islamic seminary in the UK for 12 years. Presently, he lives in the UK with his wife and is interested in books and gardening.
