What is the ruling on using the word "talismans" (طلسم) to describe incomprehensible handwriting, knowing that dictionaries state its meaning as something mysterious and vague? And does the ruling differ if the person uses it without intending its magical meaning, or having forgotten it? And what is the effect of a previous general repentance on this subsequent usage?
Merely describing something as a "talisman" (طلسم) by way of analogy to its ambiguity, lack of clarity, or other resemblances, is permissible in Islamic law. It is a form of expression used by scholars, among them Ibn al-Qayyim, who said: "The Qur’an is the greatest of treasures; its talisman is to delve with thought into the depths of its meanings."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/182954