ADHIKR

This verse commands seeking refuge from evils that may arise due to sorcery performed by making knots on threads and blowing on them. Sorcery is mentioned here in connection with women because women, being comparatively weaker than men physically, are more often involved in such practices. However, this verse does not mean that only women are involved in sorcery. Verse 2:102 mentions sorcery as a means used to control women who are already married to other men. Since sorcery is an act of serving Satan, whoever practices it in any form will not even smell the fragrance of Paradise, as taught by the Lord through His Messenger. See explanation 4:51; 16:100; and 23:97-98.