Islam teaches that Satan (Shaytan) is a real and active enemy of humanity. He is not a symbol of evil, but a created being — Iblis — who refused to obey Allah and was cast out of His mercy. From that moment, he vowed to mislead mankind until the Day of Judgment. The Qur’an exposes Satan’s strategies, warns of his influence, and provides clear guidance on how to seek protection and resist his whispers. Islam affirms that while evil exists, it never overpowers the mercy and guidance of Allah.
Iblis was a jinn who was granted a high status among the angels due to his devotion. However, when commanded to prostrate to Adam, he arrogantly refused. His disobedience stemmed from pride and envy, and he was expelled from Allah’s mercy.
"[Allah] said, 'What prevented you from prostrating when I commanded you?' [Satan] said, 'I am better than him. You created me from fire and created him from clay.'" 7:12
Iblis became Shaytan, the sworn enemy of mankind, vowing to mislead humanity through deception and false promises.
Satan's goal is to lead people away from Allah — through arrogance, temptation, procrastination, and despair. He whispers evil suggestions, makes sin seem attractive, and encourages forgetfulness and ingratitude.
"[Satan] said, 'Because You have put me in error, I will surely sit in wait for them on Your straight path.'" 7:16
He cannot force anyone to sin, but he exploits weaknesses. The Qur’an emphasizes personal responsibility — we choose to follow him or not.
Evil is a test, not a contradiction to Allah’s mercy. It exists to allow free will, to distinguish truth from falsehood, and to purify the sincere. While Satan promotes evil, Allah has given guidance to counter it.
"Indeed, the plot of Satan is weak." 4:76
Allah’s mercy and guidance are always more powerful than evil. Shaytan’s influence only succeeds when one turns away from remembrance and obedience.
Islam teaches specific ways to protect oneself from Satan’s influence:
"And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Satan, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is Hearing and Knowing." 7:200
Satan uses worldly temptations, false ideologies, envy, division, and distraction to lead people astray. He also has helpers — both from jinn and misguided humans — who promote immorality and doubt.
"And thus We have made for every prophet an enemy — devils from mankind and jinn — inspiring one another with decorative speech in delusion." 6:112
Awareness of these tools helps believers stay firm on the path of truth.
Despite his current influence, Shaytan’s fate is sealed. On the Day of Judgment, he will disown his followers and admit he had no real power — only suggestion. He will be cast into Hell along with those who followed him.
"And Satan will say when the matter has been decided, 'Indeed, Allah promised you the promise of truth. And I promised you, but I betrayed you.'" 14:22
Islam teaches believers to recognize Shaytan as an enemy, but not to live in fear — rather, in awareness and constant reliance on Allah. Satan’s plots are weak when faced with remembrance, sincerity, and righteous action.
By seeking knowledge, making dua, and guarding our hearts, we shield ourselves from evil and draw closer to Allah, the source of all light and protection.