Yes, the concept of the evil eye is inherently linked to jealousy, as indicated in Islamic tradition.
The Evil Eye and Jealousy
The evil eye, known as al-ʽayn in Islam, is the belief that someone can inflict harm on people, animals, or objects simply by looking at them with envy or jealousy. This harmful gaze stems from negative emotions harbored by the person casting the evil eye.
Islamic Perspective on the Evil Eye
In Islam, al-ʽayn (Arabic: العين, also عين الحسودة) embodies the power of individuals to cause harm through a gaze filled with jealousy. This belief highlights the damaging influence of envious feelings. The implication is that when someone possesses something desirable, the envious look of another can bring misfortune upon them.
Examples of the Evil Eye
Here are some examples related to the evil eye and how jealousy plays a role:
- A person admiring a newborn baby with excessive praise and concealed envy: This can lead to the baby becoming ill, according to the belief.
- Someone admiring another person's wealth or success with jealousy: This can lead to financial problems or misfortune for the successful individual.
- Expressing envy when looking at a beautiful object: It is believed that this might cause damage or breakage to the object.
