Are jinns locked up in the month of ramadan

Ramadan is a month of immense spiritual significance in Islam, marked by fasting, prayers, and devotion. A common belief among Muslims is that during this holy month, jinns, particularly devils (shayateen), are locked up. But what does this really mean? Are all jinns chained, or is it a metaphor for something else? Let’s explore the Islamic perspective on are jinns locked up in the month of ramadan.

Understanding Jinns in Islam

Jinns are supernatural beings created by Allah from smokeless fire. They exist in a parallel realm to humans and have free will, meaning they can choose to be good or evil. Some jinns are believers, while others are disbelievers, and among them are the devils (shayateen), who actively try to mislead humans.

Read about: lessons from the month of ramadan

The Hadith About Jinns Being Locked in Ramadan

The belief that jinns are locked up in Ramadan originates from a well-known hadith of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ):

“When the month of Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

This statement raises questions: Does it mean that all jinns are physically imprisoned, or does it refer to a reduction in their influence?

Scholarly Interpretations

There has been considerable discussion among Islamic scholars regarding the meaning of the hadith about devils being chained in Ramadan. The interpretations can be broadly classified into two main views: literal interpretation and metaphorical interpretation.

Literal Interpretation

Some scholars take this hadith literally, suggesting that devils are physically chained, preventing them from influencing humans. This interpretation implies a spiritual atmosphere where evil is significantly reduced, making it easier for believers to focus on worship.

Metaphorical Interpretation

Other scholars believe this hadith should be understood metaphorically. They argue that the “chaining” of devils means their power is weakened due to the increased devotion, ramadan fasting month, and Quran recitation by Muslims. As people engage in more worship, the influence of evil forces naturally declines.

Does This Mean No Evil Happens in Ramadan?

Even though devils are chained, people still commit sins. This is because:

Human nature and free will – Not all sins come from jinns; humans have desires and weaknesses.
Not all jinns are locked up – The hadith specifically mentions devils (shayateen), not all jinns. Some remain active.
Past habits and desires – People continue their usual actions due to habit, even without satanic influence.

The Effect of Ramadan on Jinns

During Ramadan, the spiritual energy of believers is heightened. Fasting, prayers, and Quran recitation create a strong defense against evil forces. Even if some jinns are still present, their ability to lead people astray is significantly reduced.

Common Misconceptions

Are all supernatural activities stopped? No, some jinn-related occurrences may still happen because not all jinns are locked up.
Do people still experience whispers (waswas)? Yes, because some of these whispers can come from a person’s own nafs (inner self), not just jinns.

How to Protect Oneself from Evil Jinns During Ramadan

Protecting oneself from evil jinns during Ramadan (or any time) involves spiritual, physical, and mental precautions. Here are some key Islamic practices for protection:

1. Strengthening Faith & Tawheed

Strengthen your Iman (faith) through acts of worship.
Put trust in Allah (Tawakkul) and remember that nothing can harm you without His will.

2. Reciting Quran & Dhikr

Surah Al-Baqarah: The Prophet ﷺ said: “Recite Surah Al-Baqarah, for taking it is a blessing, and leaving it is a cause of grief, and the magicians cannot confront it.” (Muslim)
Ayat-ul-Kursi (2:255): The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever recites Ayat-ul-Kursi at night, Allah appoints a guardian for him and no devil can approach him until morning.” (Bukhari)
Last Two Verses of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285-286): The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever recites the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah at night, they will suffice him.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas (Three Quls): Recite them morning, evening, and before sleep for protection.
Morning & Evening Adhkar (Supplications): The Prophet ﷺ taught specific supplications for morning and evening to protect from evil forces.

3. Seeking Refuge in Allah

Say: “A’udhu billahi min ash-shaytanir-rajim” (I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed devil).
Before entering the bathroom, say: “Allahumma inni a‘udhu bika min al-khubthi wal-khaba’ith.” (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from the male and female devils).

4. Maintaining Purity (Taharah)

Always stay in wudu (ablution) as much as possible.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “The Shaytan runs away from the house in which Surah Al-Baqarah is recited.” (Muslim)

5. Avoiding Harmful Practices

Avoid places known for jinn activity (e.g., abandoned areas, dark alleys, ruins).
Do not call upon jinns or engage in fortune-telling, black magic, or Ouija boards.
Avoid excessive fear of jinns, as this can make one susceptible to their whispers.

6. Closing Doors & Saying Bismillah

The Prophet ﷺ said: “When night falls, keep your children indoors, for the devils spread out at that time. Close the doors and mention the name of Allah, for the devil does not open a closed door.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

7. Seeking Protection Through Ruqyah

Ruqyah (spiritual healing) can be done by:

Reciting Quranic verses & supplications over water and drinking it.
Reciting Surah Al-Falaq, Surah An-Nas, and Ayat-ul-Kursi over yourself or others.
Blowing over yourself before sleep with Surah Ikhlas, Falaq, and Nas.

8. Avoiding Major Sins

Sins attract shayatin (devils). Stay away from:

Backbiting, lying, envy, arrogance.
Alcohol, drugs, and anything that weakens spiritual defenses.
Haram relationships, watching immoral content.

9. Strengthening Connection with Allah

Increase in Salah (prayer): Pray all five daily prayers on time.
Increase in Du’a (supplication): Regularly ask Allah for protection.
Fast with sincerity: Fasting weakens the whispers of Shaytan.

10. Trusting Allah & Not Overthinking

Shaytan wants you to fear him excessively and feel weak.
Remember: Allah is more powerful than all jinns and devils combined.

FAQs

If jinns are locked up, why do people still sin in Ramadan?

People sin due to their own desires and habits, not just because of jinns. Free will plays a role in actions.

Are all jinns locked up or just the devils?

The hadith specifically mentions shayateen (devils), not all jinns. Some jinns remain free.

Can jinns still whisper to humans in Ramadan?

Yes, some influence may still exist, especially from jinns that are not devils and from one’s own inner desires (nafs).

What should a Muslim do to stay protected from jinns?

Regular recitation of the Quran, seeking refuge in Allah, and maintaining acts of worship provide strong protection.

Are supernatural activities completely stopped in Ramadan?

Not necessarily. While devilish influences are reduced, not all supernatural occurrences stop.

Conclusion

The belief that jinns are locked in Ramadan is based on an authentic hadith, but its exact meaning varies among scholars. While some believe devils are literally chained, others argue that their influence is simply reduced. Regardless, Ramadan remains a blessed time where Muslims can focus on self-improvement, worship, and drawing closer to Allah.