What is the ruling on hypnosis?

Fatwas have varied regarding hypnotism. Some have classified it as a form of soothsaying and magic, involving the use of jinn, and thus prohibited it. Others have classified it within the fields of suggestion, scientific disciplines, and psychology, permitting it if used for good.

The first fatwa: The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta believes that hypnotism is a type of soothsaying involving the use of a jinn, whom the hypnotist empowers over the hypnotized person. This is shirk (polytheism) because it entails seeking help from other than Allah in matters beyond ordinary means.

The second fatwa: Dr. Abdur-Rahman bin Ahmad bin Fai' Al-Jar'i believes that the correct name is "suggestive hypnosis," and that it is a recognized scientific therapeutic field based on persuasion and forming positive convictions. He also believes that some previous fatwas were based on incorrect practices that became mixed with it.

Conclusion: Hypnotism is forbidden if it relies on the use of jinn. However, if it is based on suggestion and psychological practices, it is permissible if used for good, and forbidden if used for evil.