Da'wah vs. Ruqyah

Question: We are in need of inviting people to Allah, yet we have become preoccupied with treating those possessed by jinn. Is it permissible to suspend the da'wah efforts for this purpose? How should the possessed be treated? Is it necessary to take money? Sheikh 'Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy on him, responded: "Calling people to Allah, the Almighty, is a communal obligation (farḍh kifāyah). If a sufficient number of people undertake it, it becomes a recommended act (sunnah) for others. However, if it becomes an individual obligation (farḍh 'ayn) for a person such that no one else can fulfill their role, it takes precedence over reciting over someone possessed by jinn. This is because the benefit of da'wah is certain, whereas the benefit of reciting over someone possessed by jinn is uncertain. Many individuals have been recited over without gaining any benefit. Therefore, if the obligation of da'wah falls upon this individual alone, and no one else can fulfill his role, he must prioritise da'wah even if it means not reciting over the possessed. However, if it remains a communal obligation, one should consider what is more beneficial. Ideally, it is possible to combine both duties, dedicating specific days for each according to their importance. This way, one can continue to help those afflicted by this misfortune while still calling people to Allah. The correct method for treating someone possessed by jinn varies from case to case. However, the best approach is to recite the Qur'ān over them. For instance, reciting the Āyah (interpreted meaning): "O company of jinn and mankind, if you are able to pass beyond the regions of the heavens and the earth, then pass. You will not pass except by authority. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny? There will be sent upon you a flame of fire and smoke, and you will not defend yourselves. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?" [Quran, 55:33-36] This demonstrates to them that they cannot escape from Allah, the Almighty. Additionally, reciting the last two Āyahs of Surah Al-Baqarah, Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, Surah An-Nas, and Ayat Al-Kursi is beneficial. Moreover, admonishing them, as Sheikhul Islam, may Allah have mercy on him, used to do by saying: "It is forbidden for you to harm or strike Muslims," or similar admonishments, can also be effective. [Majmoo' Fatāwa wa rasā'il Ibn Uthaymeen, 17/33] @ruqyachannel