Shielding against Black Magic in the Islamic Faith: A Case Study on Kelantanese Entrepreneurs

(Konsep Pendinding dalam Akidah Islam: Kajian Kes terhadap Usahawan Melayu Kelantan)

Abstract

This article takes a close look at the concept of shields and its practice among Malay business people to ward off any black magic that may be used against them by business rivals. Such shields should be sought through the help of Allah SWT and should be in line with the demands and rules of Islam. The research involved a number of Malay entrepreneurs from the state of Kelantan because the Malays of Kelantan, especially the women, are, to a great extent, involved in business. The research was carried out using two methodologies: library and field research. Library research was used to build the relevant conceptual framework with regard to shielding in Islam, while the fieldwork involved interviewing selected Kelantanese Malay entrepreneurs. The findings of this research show that a small number of Kelantanese Malay entrepreneurs still do not use shields that are truly in line with Islamic teachings but instead contain elements of shirk (the worship of other than Allah) and superstition.

Keywords: shield, Kelantanese Malay entrepreneurs, Islamic faith, business