Going to churches to treat epilepsy

Q 3: The common cure for epilepsy here in Egypt is to go to a church, especially the Mary Girgis Church, or to go to practitioners of Sihr (witchcraft) and soothsayers, who are widespread in villages. Sometimes, recovery is secured. Is it permissible to do so given that the epileptic may die if he is not treated quickly? What is the lawful treatment, sanctioned by Allah, to this seizure, as there is a cure for every disease except for old age? Please give us a detailed explanation regarding the cure.

A: It is not permissible to resort to churches, practitioners of Sihr (witchcraft), or soothsayers for treating epilepsy.The lawful means of treatment is the Islamically lawful Ruqyah (recitation for healing or protection), through reciting Qur’an (Part No. 1; Page No. 293) e.g. Surah Al-Fatihah, Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Mu‘wadhatayn (Surahs Al-Falaq and Al-Nas), and Ayat-ul-Kursy (the Qur’anic Verse of the Throne, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255), along with other Adhkar (invocations and remembrances said at certain times on a regular basis) and supplications authentically reported from the Messenger (peace be upon him).May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.