Signs and Beliefs: Between Superstition and Faith {Islamic Interpretation}

 

                                                                 Article Pic of a totem

Pre-Islamic Beliefs and Islamic Perspective

Signs and marks have long been considered clues that guide people’s actions and beliefs. Before the advent of Islam, many societies believed in omens and signs that were thought to foretell misfortune or bad luck. Islam, however, does not recognize such pessimistic interpretations of signs. Instead, the religion encourages optimism, faith in God’s will, and positive belief in divine decree rather than superstition.

Modern-Day Superstitions and Cultural Layers

Today, many people continue to interpret signs as totems of good or evil. In Egypt, for instance, there are multiple layers of cultural references and traditions surrounding such beliefs. Some individuals view certain acts or occurrences as bad omens, a perspective that often extends to living creatures as well.

For example, the sight of owls or ravens is sometimes associated with misfortune. Yet, in other cultures, owls are seen as symbols of wisdom and good luck. This contrast highlights how perceptions of signs vary widely across societies and traditions.

Common Egyptian Superstitions

In Egyptian culture, some everyday occurrences are also interpreted as signs of good or bad fortune. A flipped flip-flop, for instance, may be taken as an omen of bad luck. On the other hand, if someone is speaking about a topic and the call to prayer is heard from a nearby mosque, this is often viewed as a positive sign or a blessing confirming the truth or goodness of the subject being discussed.

The Human Need to Believe

Beyond specific signs, people have an inherent tendency to believe in something—whether spiritual, superstitious, or symbolic. Following signs is often the simplest way for individuals to interpret the universe’s communication with them. It represents a desire for dialogue with something greater than oneself.

However, this communication may be one-sided; people might interpret coincidences as messages. Still, such beliefs can be powerful, creating a strong sense of connection and meaning that transcends logic and fosters faith in the unseen.

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References / Further Reading

• Al-Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286) – on belief in destiny and divine will.

• Al-Bukhari, Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Medicine – on omens and superstition.

• El-Shamy, Hasan M. (1995). Folk Traditions of the Arab World: A Guide to Motif Classification. Indiana University Press.

• Lane, Edward W. (1895). An Account of the Manners and Customs of the Modern Egyptians. London: John Murray.