What was the magic (sihar) the Qur’an mentions the angels bought to earth?

The Qur’an mentions the concept of siḥr (magic) in various contexts, one of which involves two angels, Hārūt and Mārūt, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:102). The verse refers to a form of magic taught to people as a test. Here’s the relevant part of the verse:

“And they followed [instead] what the devils had recited during the reign of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and that which was revealed to the two angels at Babylon, Hārūt and Mārūt. But they [i.e., the two angels] do not teach anyone unless they say, ‘We are a trial, so do not disbelieve [by practicing magic].’ And [yet] they learn from them that by which they cause separation between a man and his wife. But they do not harm anyone through it except by permission of Allah. And they [i.e., the people] learn what harms them and does not benefit them. But the Children of Israel certainly knew that whoever purchased it [i.e., magic] would not have in the Hereafter any share. And wretched is that for which they sold themselves, if they only knew.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:102)

Key Points about the Magic Mentioned:

1. The Role of Hārūt and Mārūt:

   • These two angels were sent as a test to humanity in Babylon.
   • They explicitly warned people that the knowledge they were about to share was a trial and that using it would lead to disbelief.

2. Nature of the Magic:

   • The specific magic mentioned in the verse involves causing discord, particularly between spouses.
   • It is described as harmful and devoid of any benefit.

3. Divine Permission:

   • Despite its harmful nature, the verse emphasizes that magic cannot harm anyone except by the permission of Allah. This underscores the ultimate control of Allah over all matters.

4. A Test for Humanity:

   • The knowledge of this magic was a trial to see who would succumb to its temptations and misuse it, leading to disbelief.

5. Condemnation of Magic:

   • The verse makes it clear that practicing or learning magic is a grave sin, leading to spiritual ruin and loss in the Hereafter.

Interpretations from Islamic Scholars:

• Ibn Kathir and other classical scholars emphasize that the angels were sent as a test to distinguish between those who obey Allah and those who disobey Him by engaging in forbidden practices.
• The magic taught was not for beneficial purposes but was a means to test people’s faith and adherence to divine guidance.

Lessons from the Verse:

• Magic is considered a form of disbelief (kufr) in Islam.
• The test of Hārūt and Mārūt serves as a reminder of the importance of resisting temptations and adhering to Allah’s guidance.
• Harmful knowledge or practices, even if tempting, must be avoided for spiritual success.