Sihr (magic) is the transformation or alteration of manifest things through word or deed. A person can transfer meanings from their places of origin. Magicians blow upon knots, from which Allah has commanded us to seek refuge. (Küt, II, 148)
Strange or extraordinary matters (umūr-i gharība) in the realm of nature originate from three principles: Firstly, certain powers belonging to the nafs (the lower self) can be enumerated. Secondly, they occur due to the particular properties in the structures of bodies. For example, the magnet attracts iron to itself due to its unique power. Thirdly, some extraordinary events arise from the special position that certain bodies on earth possess due to celestial powers, or from people on earth establishing a connection with the powers in the heavens and setting them in motion. For instance, sihr (magic), even muʿjiza (miracle) and karāma (a saintly wonder), fall under the first part of this third principle. Optical illusions and sleight of hand fall under the second part. Talismans are also events of the third kind. (Ishārāt, IV, 158)
Sihr (magic), in the absolute sense, is something evil. The share of the awliyāʾ (friends of God) in this is that Allah protects them from it.