What is the ruling on dealing with women who repeat the number "5" to ward off envy instead of [saying] "Masha'Allah, La Quwwata illa Billah (What Allah wills, there is no power except with Allah)," knowing that they believe in this and insist on it despite being warned? Is it better to shun them, even if they are relatives, to avoid backbiting or disputes, or is it permissible to sit with them without repeated warnings, or is it obligatory to warn them every time?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Saying phrases to ward off envy is a reprehensible act that should be denounced, and the person uttering them should be taught the legitimate method of warding off envy. There is no harm in sitting with the perpetrator and continuing to advise them. As for boycotting the perpetrator, that depends on the benefit; boycotting is permissible if it is the only means to avoid harm or repel mischief.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/112938
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 112938
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy