CUPPING (AL-HIJAMAH) IN THE LIGHT OF THE SUNNAH

AREAS OF CUPPING

Anas ibn Maalik (Radiallahu Anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) was treated with cupping three times on the two veins at the side of the neck and the base of the neck. [Saheeh Sunan Abi Dawud (3860), Ibn Maajah (3483)].

Abdullah ibn Abbas (Radiallahu Anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) was cupped on his head. [Saheeh al-Bukhaari (5699)].

Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Radiallahu Anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) used to cup his head and would call it (the place at the top of the head) “Umm Mugheeth.” [Saheehah (753), Saheeh al-Jaami’ (4804)].

Jaabir ibn Abdullah (Radiallahu Anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) was treated with cupping on his hip for a pain in that area. [Saheeh Sunan Abi Dawud (3863)].

Anas ibn Maalik (Radiallahu Anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) was treated with cupping when he was in Ihram, on the top of his foot, for a pain in that area. [Saheeh Sunan Abi Dawud (1836)].

Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, “Cupping under the chin is beneficial for pain in the teeth, face and throat, if it is done in its proper time. It purifies the head and the jaws.

Cupping on the top of the foot is a substitution for the puncturing of the Saphena, which is a large vein in the heel. It is beneficial for treating ulcers that occur on the thighs and calves, the interruption of menses and skin irritation on the testicles.

Cupping at the bottom of the chest is beneficial for the treatment of sores, scabies and mange on the thighs. It helps against gout, hemorrhoids, elephantiasis and itchiness on the back.” [Zaad al-Ma’aad, 4/58].