Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has issued a stern public warning regarding unauthorized practices in cemeteries, declaring that entering burial grounds to excavate graves in search of black magic or sorcery under the pretext of Ruqyah is strictly forbidden in Islamic jurisprudence.
In an official public advisory highlighted by Edition.mv and Maldives Independent, Minister Shaheem stated that the ministry had received credible reports of individuals entering public cemeteries, removing gravestones, and unearthing burial sites while claiming to conduct "Ruqyah Shar'iyya."
The Minister emphasized that such desecrations have no foundation in the Holy Quran or the established Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
"Entering cemeteries, desecrating burial grounds, and digging graves under the claim of hunting for witchcraft or sorcery are strictly haram acts that violate the core tenets of Islamic law."
Shaheem clarified that genuine Islamic spiritual healing (Ruqyah Shar'iyyah) relies solely on the recitation of prescribed Quranic verses and authentic prophetic supplications seeking wellness for the afflicted, reciting prayers over water for consumption, or direct prayer over the sick. Performing rituals involving tombs, physical desecration, or occult methods represents a perversion of religious teachings.
The Minister urged citizens to exercise heightened vigilance against unlicensed practitioners and self-proclaimed healers who exploit superstitious beliefs or emotional distress for personal gain. He reiterated that physical ailments require legitimate clinical consultation at healthcare facilities, while spiritual comfort must adhere strictly to authentic Islamic doctrines:
"It is Allah alone who provides true healing. Islam clearly instructs us to pray, seek divine help through prescribed duas, and pursue verified medical treatment."
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs affirmed that it is liaising with local island councils and law enforcement authorities to monitor cemetery grounds and prevent any further disturbances of burial infrastructure across the atolls. Official religious guidelines can be reviewed at islamicaffairs.gov.mv.
