The Forbidden Secrets of Magic in the Quran

They followed what the devils recited during the reign of Solomon. Solomon did not disbelieve, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and that which was revealed to the two angels, Harut and Marut, in Babylon. But they (the two angels) did not teach anyone without saying: ‘We are only a trial, so do not disbelieve.’ Yet they learned from them what could cause separation between a man and his wife. But they could not harm anyone except by Allah’s permission. And they learned what harmed them, not what benefited them. And indeed they knew that whoever purchased this (magic) would have no share in the Hereafter. How evil was that for which they sold themselves, if only they knew!”

🔹 Introduction

This verse addresses the false accusations against Prophet Solomon (Sulaiman عليه السلام), clarifying that he never practised disbelief or magic. Instead, it was the devils who spread sorcery among people. Allah also mentions Harut and Marut, two angels sent to Babylon, who tested people by warning them not to misuse knowledge of magic. Despite the warning, people pursued it to harm relationships and lives.

🔹 Shan-e-Nuzool (Background of Revelation)
The Jews of Medina accused Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) of practising witchcraft.
They used sorcery books left behind by devils during Solomon’s time, falsely attributing them to him.
To expose their lies, Allah revealed this verse, clarifying Solomon’s innocence.
It also warns that those who choose sorcery are knowingly trading away their share in the Hereafter.

🔹 Summary
Prophet Solomon was innocent of sorcery.
Devils spread magic and disbelief.
Harut and Marut were a test for people in Babylon.
Magic can harm relationships, but only with Allah’s permission.
Those who choose sorcery harm themselves and lose their Hereafter.