A screenshot from the 2014 American action-horror-thriller, Jinn that delves into the mythological concept of jinn, creatures made of smokeless fire, as per traditional lore. The film follows Shawn, who, after receiving a cryptic message and a mysterious VHS tape, discovers his family is cursed by a jinn seeking vengeance. With the help of a duo named Gabriel and Father Westhoff, and a shackled mental patient, Shawn confronts the ancient evil to protect his family and uncover truths beyond the visible world. Image source: IMDB
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Disclaimer: The content presented in this post draws inspiration from Fayaz Thamizhan’s YouTube channel, which features his personal experiences and interactions with entities referred to as Jinns. While these accounts provide a unique perspective, it is important to note that they are not grounded in scientific evidence or universally acknowledged facts and may not be representative of all experiences or beliefs regarding such entities.
Jinns in Islam
Jinns hold a significant place in Islamic teachings, often mentioned alongside humans and angels as creations of Allah. According to the Quran and Hadith, jinns were created by Allah from a smokeless, scorching fire. This distinct origin sets them apart from humans, who were created from clay, and angels, who were formed from light. The concept of jinns is intricate, encompassing various characteristics that make them both similar to and different from humans and angels.
Jinns, like humans, possess free will, allowing them to make choices and be accountable for their actions. Islamic teachings portray jinns as beings who can be good or evil, with the ability to follow a righteous path or deviate into wickedness. This attribute of free will aligns them more closely with humans than angels, who are depicted as obedient messengers of Allah, devoid of such personal autonomy.
In contrast to humans, jinns possess supernatural abilities, such as shape-shifting, and can become invisible to the human eye. These qualities contribute to the aura of mystery surrounding them, often leading to their portrayal in folklore and mythology as tricksters or benevolent guardians. Despite these powers, jinns share the same earthly realm as humans and are subject to the same divine laws set forth by Allah.
The Quran frequently references jinns to underscore their integral role in the moral and spiritual fabric of the universe. For instance, Surah Al-Hijr (15:27) states, “And the jinn We created before from scorching fire,” emphasizing their ancient origin. Additionally, Surah Ar-Rahman (55:15) reiterates their creation from smokeless fire, reinforcing the distinct nature of their existence. Such references provide insight into the Jinns’ place within the wider context of Islamic cosmology.
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Fayaz Thamizhan’s YouTube channel features a captivating series where he engages with a supposed Jinn entity, drawing questions from both his curiosity and his subscribers’ inquiries. While the original content is presented in Tamil without English subtitles, the series has garnered attention for its intriguing subject matter. The interactions delve into the mysterious and often misunderstood world of Jinn, providing a platform for exploration and discussion. For those interested in the paranormal, Fayaz Thamizhan’s series offers a unique glimpse into the enigmatic realm of Jinn, as he seeks to understand and communicate with these entities through his videos.
Fayaz Thamizhan Jinn Videos
Fayaz Thamizhan is an Indian paranormal investigator and a YouTuber who often investigates instances of paranormal activities. Jinn is one of his specialties and in a series of videos, he decided to communicate with the Jinns by placing a motion sensor light that will light up if an entity is nearby & decided that the answer to his questions is yes.
Some of the interesting questions that he had raised and gotten the following responses are:-
- What kind of food does Jinn eat – is it the same as humans with veg & non-veg meals? YES
- Can Jinn kill humans if it is not his destiny? NO
- Can Jinns travel from one country to another in seconds? YES
- Are there bad and good Jinns? YES
- Which language is common to any Jinns in any country – is it Arabic? YES
- Can a good Jinn enter a temple, mosque, or church? YES
- Have Jinn met God? NO
- Does Jinn acknowledge there is GOD? YES
- Does Jinn have family & get sad if one of the family members dies? YES
- When a human dies, does the soul go to another world? YES
- Does Jinn live in the same dimension as humans? NO
- Is there a heaven? YES
- Is there a next life? NO
- Can religious men interact and chase Jinns away? YES
- Will good Jinn help without anyone asking for it? YES
- How do we identify if there are bad Jinn – fights in the family or financial loss? YES
- Does Alien exists? NO
- Did GOD create humans? YES
- Did humans exist from the evolution process? NO
- Does Jinn sleep like humans? YES
- Tying blessed strings from temples will protect from Jinns? YES
Different Types of Jinns
In Islamic theology, the enigmatic creatures known as jinns are classified into distinct categories, each possessing unique characteristics and abilities. These categories provide a comprehensive understanding of the jinni world, illustrating the diversity and complexity within their society.
Hinn
The Hinn, according to Arabian and Islamic folklore, are a type of supernatural creature associated with the Jinn but distinct in their attributes and origins. They are believed to be one of the pre-Adamitic races, creatures that existed before humans, and are often mentioned alongside other entities such as Binn, Timm, and Rimm.
The Hinn are sometimes described as shape-shifting beings, capable of taking various forms, including that of dogs. Their existence is acknowledged within certain Islamic traditions and they are referenced in various historical and religious texts, contributing to the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern mythology.
Ghoul
The term “Ghoul” in folklore refers to a demonic being or monstrous humanoid that is often associated with graveyards and consuming human flesh. Originating from pre-Islamic Arabian religion, the ghoul has been a staple of horror and mythology, evolving in modern fiction to represent a specific kind of monster.
Interestingly, in Arabic folklore, a male ghoul is known as a “ghul,” while the female is termed “ghulah,” often depicted as a deceitful creature luring unsuspecting victims. These entities are part of the broader category of jinn, spiritual beings in Islamic theology, which can be benevolent, neutral, or malevolent.
Jann
The term “Jann” refers to a supernatural entity in Islamic mythology, believed to be the ancestors of the jinn. According to tradition, they inhabited the earth before humans and were ruled by a king named Jann ibn Jann. These beings are often associated with the element of fire and are thought to have been created from a smokeless and scorching fire.
They are mentioned in various Islamic texts, including the Quran, where they are described as beings created before humans and made of a different substance. The stories of the Jann provide a rich tapestry of myth and legend, reflecting the complex beliefs and cultural heritage of Islamic societies.
Marid
In Islamic mythology, the Marid are considered one of the most powerful classes of jinn. They are known for their formidable strength and ability to grant wishes to humans. Traditionally depicted as rebellious and often malevolent, Marids are said to be made of smokeless fire and possess free will, similar to humans. Their stories are woven into the fabric of Middle Eastern folklore, often associated with magical tales and the supernatural world.
Ifrit
In Islamic mythology, the Ifrit are a class of jinn known for their strength and cunning. Created from smokeless fire, they are often depicted as powerful, winged creatures that inhabit desolate places like ruins or underground. The Ifrit are considered to be one of the most formidable types of jinn, with the ability to shape-shift and exert influence over humans. While they are generally seen as malevolent, their behavior towards humans can vary, and they possess their own complex societies and moral codes.
Shiqq
In the rich tapestry of Islamic folklore, the Shiqq is a fascinating entity. Described as a lower form of jinn, the Shiqq is said to be only half-formed, giving it a monstrous appearance. This creature is part of a diverse hierarchy of spirits in Islamic tradition, which includes various types of jinn, each with its unique traits and stories.
The Shiqq, in particular, is noted for its incomplete physical form, often depicted as having one eye, one arm, and one leg. Such beings are woven into the cultural narratives and serve as a testament to the depth and variety of characters that enrich folklore and mythological studies.
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Fayaz Thamizhan talks about Ifrit which is considered as the most powerful jinn of all and how the Prophet Sulaiman was able to control Jinns. In Islamic tradition, Prophet Sulaiman, known as Solomon in other traditions, is revered for his wisdom and his unique ability to communicate with animals and the jinn. This gift was bestowed upon him by Allah, allowing him to understand and converse with all creatures, which he used to maintain peace and harmony in his kingdom. He was also granted the power to control the wind and the jinn, who aided him in his reign, and even the construction of significant structures like the Baitul Maqdis.
Famous Historical Sightings of Jinns
The Islamic world’s rich tapestry of history includes numerous accounts of jinn sightings that have captured the imagination of believers and scholars alike. Among the most well-documented tales is that of the 9th-century scholar Al-Jahiz, who chronicled various encounters with jinns in his seminal work “The Book of Animals.” Al-Jahiz recounted an instance where a group of merchants, journeying through the Arabian Peninsula, allegedly encountered a group of jinn who initially took the form of serpents before revealing their true nature. This encounter added to the prevailing notions about the elusive and shape-shifting characteristics of jinns.
Another significant account comes from the medieval scholar Ibn Taymiyyah, who described jinn sightings as not merely folklore but tangible interactions. He noted the case of a man in Damascus who reported being harassed by a malevolent jinni. Ibn Taymiyyah was called upon to provide spiritual intervention, which he documented as a successful exorcism, thereby giving credence to the existence and power of jinn within Islamic law and culture.
The region of the Maghreb also holds numerous tales of jinn encounters. One particular story from Morocco in the 14th century shares the experience of a farmer who claimed to have found a jinni hiding in his well. The jinni, after being discovered, promised to bestow fortunes upon the farmer in exchange for freedom. Such stories were significant in shaping the cultural and social dynamics of these communities, reinforcing the belief in the supernatural aspects of jinns.
Jinns in Modern Times: Sightings and Beliefs
The belief in jinns, entities rooted deeply in Islamic tradition, persists into modern times, evolving alongside societal shifts while retaining its core characteristics. Contemporary sightings and experiences are reported across numerous Islamic countries, ranging from personal encounters to broader cultural phenomena, signaling a persistent, though sometimes transformed, presence in modern belief systems.
One striking example is the frequent reports of jinns in rural areas of countries like Pakistan, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia. These accounts often include sightings of shadowy figures or unexplained disturbances, which locals attribute to jinn activity. For instance, inhabitants of isolated villages sometimes report hearing eerie whispers at night or seeing fleeting, indistinct shapes.
In urban settings too, such anecdotes proliferate, manifesting in various forms – including stories shared within families or disseminated through social media platforms. The adaptation to digital spaces marks an evolution in how jinn narratives are exchanged, reflecting broader technological shifts.
Another modern manifestation of the belief in jinns can be observed in the practice of exorcisms, which, while rooted in tradition, continue to be an intriguing aspect of contemporary Islamic spirituality. Clerics, known as ‘Usrat’, are often called upon to perform rituals aimed at expelling jinns believed to possess individuals. These practices underscore a continuity in addressing perceived supernatural influences, bridging past and present approaches.
The alignment or divergence between historical and modern views on jinns reveal intriguing cultural dynamics. Traditionally, jinns were seen as both benevolent and malevolent spirits, influencing daily life and moral conduct. In contrast, contemporary beliefs occasionally imbue jinns with characteristics resonant with modern anxieties, such as mental health concerns or societal stresses, reflecting adaptation to contemporary context.
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Fayaz Thamizhan suggests three intriguing methods to determine the presence of Jinn ghosts or negative spirits. Firstly, one might attempt to abstain from consuming any non-vegetarian food for a period of 48 days. Secondly, an unusual affinity for conversing or playing with cats during the late-night hours could be indicative, as it is believed that Jinns are fond of cats. Lastly, experiencing a sudden skepticism towards one’s faith or an aversion to sacred places, such as temples, churches, or mosques, may also signal such a presence. Be mindful that these methods stem from cultural beliefs and are not scientifically proven, but they continue to be a part of folklore and spiritual discussions.
Scientific Explanations and Skepticism
When examining the phenomenon of jinn sightings and experiences, scientific explanations and skeptical viewpoints provide a balanced perspective. Researchers often investigate such phenomena through the lenses of psychology, environmental factors, and social influence in an attempt to demystify these occurrences using a naturalistic framework.
From a psychological standpoint, one explanation for jinn encounters appears rooted in cognitive and perceptual processes. Conditions such as sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and certain psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, can lead individuals to perceive experiences that align with traditional descriptions of jinn. During sleep paralysis, individuals may find themselves unable to move and might sense an unfamiliar presence, an experience sometimes interpreted as an encounter with a jinn. Hallucinations, whether visual, auditory, or tactile, can similarly give rise to perceived interactions with these entities.
Environmental factors also play a significant role in jinn sightings. Conditions like electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and infrasound have been linked to altered states of perception. EMFs can affect the brain’s temporal lobes, leading to sensations that might be interpreted as otherworldly. Infrasound, a low-frequency sound that is often inaudible to humans, can induce feelings of discomfort, anxiety, and the sense of a presence, further contributing to reports of jinn encounters.
Social and cultural influences significantly shape jinn-related experiences as well. Shared cultural beliefs and narratives about jinn are pervasive in many Islamic societies, and they often frame personal experiences and interpretations. Stories and folklore passed down through generations can prime individuals to perceive ordinary events as interactions with jinn. The power of suggestion and confirmation bias may cause individuals to interpret ambiguous stimuli in ways that align with their cultural expectations.
Various scientific studies and researchers emphasize a naturalistic framework to explain jinn phenomena. For example, epidemiological studies looking at the prevalence of jinn-related experiences align these events with known psychological and environmental factors. Researchers advocating a skeptic viewpoint argue that ascribing jinn to supernatural causes may sometimes detract from understanding underlying health conditions or environmental influences.
Final Say
Throughout history, jinns have occupied a significant place in Islamic culture and religion, weaving a rich tapestry of folklore, mysticism, and tradition. As supernatural beings, jinns are mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, making them a fundamental component of Islamic theology. Their depiction spans various roles—from malevolent creatures causing harm to benevolent guardians—imbuing them with an aura of mystery that has perpetuated fascination across centuries.
The concept of jinns taps into several layers of cultural and psychological dimensions. Culturally, stories of jinns have been passed down through generations, integrated into everyday life, and contribute profoundly to the collective imagination of Islamic societies. These narratives often serve as cautionary tales, moral lessons, and explanations for unexplained phenomena, thereby ensuring their relevance and continued existence in folk memory.
Religiously, belief in jinns aligns with Islamic doctrines that affirm the existence of unseen entities created by Allah. This theological backing provides believers with a framework to understand the supernatural and its potential influence on human affairs. Rituals, prayers, and specific practices aimed at seeking protection from or appeasing jinns further reinforce their presence in the religious psyche.
In conclusion, the fascination with jinns endures not merely as an element of folklore or religious text but as a profound expression of human curiosity about the supernatural. By integrating cultural heritage, religious belief, and psychological needs, the legacy of jinns continues to captivate minds, ensuring their place in the vast expanse of Islamic traditions and beyond.