As the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was on one of his journeys, and the people were in their sleeping places where they would pass the night in their dwellings and tents, he sent someone to the people ordering them to cut the necklaces hung around the camels' necks, be they made of strings - bowstrings - or any other material, like bells or sandals. This is because they used to hang these necklaces for protection against the evil eye. Hence, they were ordered to cut them, as they are of no avail against the evil eye, and benefit and harm lie in the Hand of Allah alone, with no partner.
- It is prohibited to hang strings and necklaces to bring about benefits or ward off evils, for this is an act of Shirk (polytheism).
- There is nothing wrong with hanging a necklace without a string, as adornment, or for the purpose of riding an animal or tying it.
- It is obligatory to show disapproval of wrong things, according to one's ability.
- A person's heart should be attached to Allah alone, with no partner.
صحيح البخاري (4/ 59) (3005). صحيح مسلم (3/ 1672) (2115). القول المفيد على كتاب التوحيد، لابن عثيمين (1/ 179). الملخص في شرح كتاب التوحيد، لصالح الفوزان (ص77). الجديد في شرح كتاب التوحيد، لمحمد القرعاوي (ص89).