A Taweez islam talisman – an amulet that contains the Quran or some other text that can be used to cure diseases. Its shape is usually triangular, but can also be square or oval. Its preparation requires years of practice, said a Sufi imam who offers them regularly in San Jose.

A Muslim can wear a taweez, but only if it contains the words of the Qur’an and du’as from the Qur’an or ahadith. A taweez should not contain any text that is not from the Qur’an or ahadith, nor any non-Quranic symbols and names.

Taweez islam: a key to understanding varieties of Islam

The UK Times newspaper last autumn introduced its readers to an unfamiliar side of Sufi Sunni Islam, the use of taweez. Among the many things it reported on was the conviction of a Salafi who murdered an imam who practised this form of Islam.

The History and Meaning of Taweez in Islamic Tradition

In Islam, du’as and recitation of the Qur’an are deemed to be cures for physical and inner illnesses. It is a way of invoking the blessings of Allah and the protection of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This recitation of du’as is also a means of healing.