SHAH ALAM - A string of odd happenings in recent weeks have left many perplexed and looking for answers beyond the usual.
Some people feel that the phenomenon could be associated with the jinn, which are supernatural entities often mentioned in Islam.
Several discussions and theories have emerged among those who were taken aback by the occurrence of midnight and early morning knocks on the doors of several houses in the community of Parit Raja, Ayer Hitam, Batu Pahat.
According to residents there, there were multiple knocks, but when doors were opened, no one seemed to be outside.
Residents were left deeply confused and made their own speculations, connecting this incident to mythical things that could not be explained.
Some even said the incident most likely resulted from a black magic practitioner's evil and treacherous practices because of disruptions like suddenly seeing creatures on the roof and other supernatural happenings.
To shed some much-needed light on the matter, Sinar Daily spoke to a religious.
According to Penang Mufti Datuk Seri Dr Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor in Islam, they have differing views on the influence of jinn on human affairs.
"The mysterious occurrence might be a "disturbance" of jinn or other ethereal creatures acting on their own volition or under the guidance of their "master" for a particular purpose.
"From an Islamic standpoint, jinn are a part of the supernatural, and, aside from what is mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah, nothing that is a part of the supernatural can be known for sure,” he said.
Wan Salim added that in Islamic theology, jinn are supernatural beings created from smokeless fire.
The Quran mentions their existence in several verses and highlights their role in the larger cosmic order.
He said, according to religious teachers and experts, believing in the existence of jinn is obligatory, and whoever rejects it intentionally is a kafir (infidel).
However, if the disobedience is due to ignorance, then a person is forgiven (does not become an infidel), but he should learn.
The surah "Al-Jinn" is particularly significant in shedding light on the interaction between the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) and a group of jinn.
Wan Salim said the Quran describes that some jinn listened to the Prophet reciting the Qur'an and were deeply moved by its message. They recognised the truth and embraced Islam.
Similarly, the Quran also tells the story of Jinn through the story of Prophet Sulaiman and Queen Balqis in the State of Saba' and states that Jinn are able to do heavy and difficult work.
However, Wan Salim said that there are differences of thought among Islamic scholars over the issue of the jinn's ability to influence people.
According to some scholars, jinn are thought to be capable of harming or influencing humans, and there may be cases where jinn possess or afflict humans.
Wan Salim said that some scholars also believe that numerous examples of purported jinn influence are more likely to be related to mental or physical illnesses than to the actual deeds of jinn.
"For them, when someone is possessed by a jinn, it is just a manifestation of the weakness of the soul! "However, this matter should be referred to a psychiatrist or Islamic healer for further clarification,” he said.
While some religious leaders may acknowledge the potential influence of jinn, Wan Salim also advised consulting medical professionals or mental health experts to rule out physical or psychological causes when dealing with issues that may be attributed to jinn.