Explore the Sunnah of Hijama in Islam, its health benefits, Prophetic guidance, and how cupping therapy helps in healing the body and soul.
Introduction: What Is the Sunnah of Hijama?
Hijama, also known as cupping therapy, is an ancient healing method that involves removing small amounts of blood from the body using special suction cups. In Islam, this practice holds a special place because Prophet Muhammad ﷺ not only approved of it but also practiced it himself. That is why it is known as the Sunnah of Hijama.
This form of therapy is more than just a health treatment. It is a part of prophetic healing and has been passed down through generations as a trusted Sunnah. Prophet ﷺ recommended it for its physical and spiritual benefits. One well-known narration states:
“Indeed, the best of remedies you have is Hijama (cupping).”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5696)
Another hadith describes Prophet ﷺ himself receiving Hijama:
“Prophet ﷺ had Hijama done on his head while he was in a state of Ihram.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5701)
These hadiths show that Hijama was not just advised by Prophet ﷺ, but also part of his personal health routine. By following the Islamic cupping method, Muslims seek both healing and the reward of practicing a Sunnah.
Understanding the Sunnah of Hijama reminds us that caring for our bodies can also be a form of worship when done with the right intention and in line with the Prophet’s guidance.
Historical Background of Hijama in Islam
Hijama has a deep history in Islam. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ practiced it regularly and spoke about its benefits. He received cupping for pain, sickness, and even after being poisoned. His companions also followed this healing method, treating it as a valuable part of daily life.
One hadith says:
“I did not pass by any group of angels on the night of Al-Isra, but all of them said to me: O Muhammad, order your nation to do cupping.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah, 3477 – Hasan)
This shows that Hijama was not only practiced on earth but was also praised by the angels. Prophet ﷺ actively encouraged his followers to use it for healing.
Throughout Islamic history, scholars and physicians promoted Hijama as part of Prophetic medicine. Experts like Ibn Sina included it in their medical books and described how it helped remove harmful substances from the body. Muslims in many parts of the world kept this Sunnah alive for centuries.
By learning about the history of Hijama in Islam, we connect with the way Prophet ﷺ cared for health. When we choose to practice it today, we continue that tradition and gain both physical benefits and spiritual reward.
Why Hijama Is a Sunnah
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ practiced Hijama and encouraged others to benefit from it. He praised its healing effects and made it a regular part of his life. This is why Muslims consider Hijama a Sunnah, which means a recommended action that carries spiritual reward when done with the right intention.
In one narration, Prophet ﷺ said:
“The best treatment you can use is cupping.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5696)
He didn’t just speak about it. Received Hijama on different parts of his body, such as his head and between his shoulders. He advised companions to try it for health issues like headaches, pain, and circulation problems.
When you follow this practice today with the intention of following Prophet’s guidance, you revive a Sunnah and take care of your health at the same time. Hijama offers both physical healing and spiritual benefit when practiced with sincere faith.
Prophet ﷺ also showed us the value of natural medicine. He used Hijama not only to treat illness but also to stay healthy and prevent future problems. This shows that Islam supports both prevention and treatment in caring for the body.
Choosing to follow the Sunnah of Hijama helps you connect with the teachings of Prophet ﷺ while taking steps toward better health and well-being.
Spiritual and Physical Benefits of Hijama
Hijama offers more than just physical relief. It brings both health benefits and spiritual rewards when done with the intention of following the Sunnah.
Physically, Hijama improves blood circulation, helps remove toxins, and supports the immune system. Many people use it to reduce pain, treat fatigue, and manage stress. It can also help with conditions like migraines, back pain, high blood pressure, and even digestive problems. These results make it a trusted method in natural healing.
Spiritually, Hijama becomes even more powerful when done as a Sunnah. When you follow the practice of Prophet ﷺ with the right intention, you earn reward from Allah. You also strengthen your connection to prophetic guidance, which helps increase inner peace and faith.
Reciting dhikr during the session and starting with the name of Allah brings calmness to the heart. Some people say they feel lighter and more focused after treatment. This shows that Hijama can affect not only the body but also the soul.
By including Hijama in your self-care routine, you follow a path of healing that brings benefit in this world and reward in the hereafter. Islam encourages Muslims to take care of their health, and Hijama is one of the ways to do that with both physical results and spiritual meaning.
When to Perform Hijama According to Sunnah
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ guided his followers on the best times to perform Hijama. Following this timing not only increases the physical benefit but also brings spiritual reward.
According to several authentic hadiths,Prophet ﷺ recommended having Hijama on specific days of the Islamic lunar month. He advised doing it on the 17th, 19th, or 21st day. These days are known to be more effective and were the ones he often chose for himself.
One narration says:
“Whoever performs cupping on the 17th, 19th, or 21st, it will be a cure for every disease.”
(Sunan Abi Dawood, 3861 – Hasan)
The best time of day to perform Hijama is usually in the early morning or a few hours after Fajr. During this time, the body is more relaxed and the process tends to be smoother.
Islamic scholars also advise avoiding Hijama on Fridays, Saturdays, or very hot days unless there is a medical need. Choosing the right time shows respect for the Sunnah and increases the chance of physical and emotional healing.
When you follow the prophetic guidance on Hijama timing, you not only care for your health but also act in line with the teachings of Prophet ﷺ.
How Hijama Is Done: The Islamic Method
Hijama is done using a clean and careful process that follows Islamic values. The procedure involves creating light suction on the skin to draw out small amounts of blood from targeted areas of the body. Muslims prefer to follow the method practiced during the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to gain both physical healing and spiritual reward.
The process starts by cleaning the skin and placing special cups on the chosen spots. A therapist creates suction inside the cups, usually using a pump or flame. After a few minutes, the cups are removed, and the therapist makes very small, shallow cuts on the skin. The cups are placed back again to draw out the blood that carries toxins and waste from the body.
There are two main types of Hijama:
- Dry cupping: Uses suction only, without drawing blood
- Wet cupping: Involves suction followed by light cuts to release blood (this is the Sunnah method)
The most commonly used areas for Hijama in the Sunnah include the upper back, between the shoulders, and the back of the neck. These areas are known for helping with circulation and overall body function. Prophet ﷺ had Hijama done on these areas himself.
Cleanliness and safety are important. A trained and trustworthy therapist must use sterilized tools and follow proper hygiene. Men and women should seek treatment from a same-gender practitioner to maintain modesty, as Islam teaches.
When you choose Hijama done in the Islamic way, you not only support your health but also honor the prophetic tradition.
Who Can Perform Hijama?
Hijama should always be done by someone who is trained, skilled, and trustworthy. In Islam, taking care of health is a serious matter, and choosing the right person for cupping therapy is part of that responsibility.
The person performing Hijama must understand the correct technique, hygiene standards, and the prophetic method. They should know how to locate the Sunnah points on the body, how to use the tools safely, and how to handle the procedure without causing harm.
Islam also reminds us to follow rules of modesty. Men should go to male practitioners, and women should go to female practitioners. This helps protect privacy and keeps the process in line with Islamic teachings.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ once had Hijama done by a skilled cupping therapist. He praised those who performed the treatment properly and paid them for their work. This shows that Hijama is a respected service that requires skill and care.
If you are planning to get Hijama, take time to find someone qualified. Ask for their experience, check if they follow cleanliness protocols, and make sure they understand the Sunnah method. This helps you gain both the healing benefits and the spiritual reward.
Choosing a trusted practitioner ensures that you receive Hijama in a safe, effective, and Islamic way.
Common Misconceptions About Hijama
Many people feel unsure about Hijama because of common misunderstandings. Clearing up these misconceptions helps more Muslims feel confident in trying this Sunnah.
Some people think Hijama is very painful.
In truth, most people feel only slight discomfort during the session. The cuts are small and shallow, and many describe the experience as relaxing. Some even feel light and refreshed afterward.
Others believe Hijama is an old method with no modern use.
However, many wellness experts today support cupping therapy for pain relief, blood flow, and stress reduction. Hijama is a trusted part of Prophetic medicine and still offers real results in today’s world.
Some worry that Hijama is unsafe.
When done by a trained and clean practitioner, Hijama is very safe. The tools must be sterilized, and the therapist should follow hygiene rules. When you take these precautions, you reduce risk and gain real benefits.
Another common belief is that Hijama is only for people who are very sick.
This is not true. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used Hijama regularly for general health, even when he was not sick. Many people today use it for energy, stress relief, and overall wellness.
When you understand the truth about Hijama, you can see how safe, helpful, and spiritually rewarding it is. This makes it easier to follow the Sunnah with confidence and peace of mind.
Hijama for Women in Islam
Women can safely benefit from Hijama just like men. Islam does not limit this Sunnah practice to men alone. In fact, many women from the time of Prophet ﷺ also received cupping therapy for various health reasons.
Hijama helps women manage stress, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances. It may also support the body during fertility planning or recovery after childbirth. Some women find relief from migraines, joint pain, and backaches through regular Hijama sessions.
Islam encourages modesty, so it is important for women to receive Hijama from a trained female practitioner. This helps protect privacy and keeps the process comfortable and respectful.
Women should avoid Hijama during their menstrual period and early stages of pregnancy unless a qualified professional advises otherwise. After childbirth or during times of weakness, a woman can choose a suitable time to resume Hijama for physical and spiritual healing.
When women follow this Sunnah with intention and care, they receive both health benefits and spiritual reward. Hijama is not only for treatment, it is also a way to honor the guidance of Prophet ﷺ in everyday life.
Integrating Hijama Into a Sunnah Lifestyle
Hijama is more than just a treatment. When you include it in your regular routine with the right intention, it becomes a part of living according to the Sunnah.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cared for his physical and spiritual health. He used natural remedies, maintained cleanliness, and followed simple, healthy habits. Hijama fits perfectly into this lifestyle because it encourages both healing and spiritual reward.
To make Hijama part of your Sunnah routine, choose the recommended days each month and prepare for the session with a clear intention. Many people also recite dhikr during the process to keep their hearts connected to Allah.
You can also combine Hijama with other Sunnah practices like eating dates, using black seed oil, brushing with miswak, and following a balanced diet. These habits support your body and strengthen your faith at the same time.
By choosing Hijama with sincerity, you take care of your health and follow a tradition that Prophet ﷺ praised and practiced. This brings barakah (blessing) to your health journey and helps you live closer to the Prophetic way.
Conclusion: Reviving the Sunnah of Hijama
Hijama is a powerful Sunnah that supports both physical health and spiritual growth. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ practiced it, praised its benefits, and encouraged the ummah to follow it. Today, you can bring this blessed practice into your life by learning about it, choosing the right time, and seeking treatment from a trained and trusted practitioner.
By following Hijama with the right intention, you gain relief from pain, reduce stress, and earn spiritual reward. It connects your health journey to the teachings of Prophet ﷺ and reminds you that Islam values care for the body as much as care for the soul.
Whether you try Hijama for healing or as part of a Sunnah lifestyle, you take a step toward living with more balance, faith, and purpose. Let this beautiful practice bring ease, strength, and barakah to your life.