Navigating How Superstitions Coexist And Clash In Filipino Muslim Societies

To avoid offending unseen spirits, you may have heard one say “tabi-tabi po” sometimes. 

This phrase reflects how deeply rooted superstitions are in Filipino culture—transcending ethnicities, families, and even religions, including Islam. Despite Islam’s core principles of Qadar (Allah’s divine will) and Tawhid (the belief in one God), it is surprising that superstition within Filipino Muslim communities still thrives up to this day.

If you’ve heard about placing the baby’s first haircut inside the Quran believing it will protect the child from illness; or folding a part of janamaz (prayer mat) when not in use to avoid inviting the devils; and if you are discouraged to take a rest between  5 P.M. and 7 P.M as the jinns (unseen beings) are active in these hours, you’re not alone—as these are the superstitions that some of the Filipino Muslim may have followed. 

However, despite Islamic teachings firmly rejecting superstitions, beliefs like these still thrive among Filipino Muslim communities revealing an interesting tension between religious doctrine and inherited folklore. 

Abdurahim Datumanong, a resident of Muslim Town in Quiapo, Manila, finds fascinating connections between Filipino folklore creatures like the kapre, duwende, and multo and the Islamic concept of jinns, as jinns have ability to shapeshift and may be the folklore creature we’ve known for.

“Diba yung mga elemento sa inyo kailangan i-respeto? Gaya ng pagsabi ng ‘tabi-tabi po’, sa amin [ang sinasabi namin] ‘bismillah’ o ‘Auzubillah minashaitan nirajeem,’” he explained.

Differentiating Cultural Traditions from Religious Teachings

Many superstitious practices are incorrectly attributed to Islam. While the Quran—the holy book of Islam—and the Hadith—the recorded sayings of Prophet Muhammad—provide comprehensive guidance for Muslims, some customs have no basis in these sacred texts. Instead, they are considered bid'ah, or religious innovations, which Islam discourages.

Imam Faisal Baulo of Masjid Al-Dahab or the Manila Golden Mosque, explains that beliefs in omens and superstitions fall under shirk, as it suggests reliance on powers other than Allah. He emphasizes that life events are governed solely by Allah’s will.

“Kung wala doon [in Quran or Hadith], ibig sabihin nawawala ka,” Imam Faisal stated.

Islam’s Perspective on Superstition

Superstitions often arise from a longing for safety or good fortune. In contrast, Islam teaches that everything in life happens according to Allah’s will and plan. As stated in Surah At-Tawbah (9:51):

Say, ‘Nothing will ever befall us except what Allah has destined for us. He is our Protector.’ So in Allah let the believers put their trust.

Imam Faisal stresses that cultural traditions hold value only when aligned with Islamic teachings. He advises Muslims to deepen their understanding of the Quran and Hadith to avoid practices rooted in superstition.

“Ang mga kaugalian ay dapat sinusunod ang ugali ng kabutihan na tinuturo ng Islam,” he added.

By fostering a better understanding of their faith, Filipino Muslims can navigate the delicate balance between cultural heritage and religious doctrine. This ensures their practices reflect the true essence of Islam while honoring their rich cultural history.

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Layout by: Timothy Andrei Milambiling