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Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Islamic Spiritual Practices and Mental Health: A Neurotheological Approach to Sufism

Authors: Fazeel Eayaz; Thameem Ushama; Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Sharif;

Islamic Spiritual Practices and Mental Health: A Neurotheological Approach to Sufism

Abstract

Islamic Spiritual Practices and Mental Health: A Neurotheological Approach to Sufism The intersection of spirituality and neuroscience leads to the emergence of neurotheology, a field dedicated to exploring how spiritual practices influence the brain and mental well-being. Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health challenges globally, culturally sensitive frameworks for addressing these issues, particularly within Muslim communities, remain underexplored. This raises critical questions: How do Islamic spiritual practices, particularly those in Sufism, impact brain function and mental health? Existing literature highlights the psychological and emotional advantages of mindfulness and meditation, yet the transformative potential of Sufi rituals like Dhikr (remembrance of God) and muraqabah (meditation) remains largely untapped in contemporary therapeutic models. By analyzing Sufi practices through the lens of neurotheology, this study underscores the universal applicability of these spiritual traditions in fostering emotional resilience, alleviating anxiety, and enhancing social cohesion. The scope of this research extends beyond individual mental health to addressing cultural sensitivities, promoting interfaith dialogue, and integrating faith-based approaches into global mental health strategies. The objective is to integrate Islamic spiritual traditions with contemporary neuroscientific research, providing evidence-based insights for mental health professionals, researchers, and faith leaders. This exploration holds profound importance for contemporary society, offering a culturally inclusive approach to mental health that can benefit diverse populations. By validating the therapeutic potential of Sufi practices, this study not only enriches our understanding of spirituality and the brain but also contributes to holistic healing and the global discourse on mental well-being.

Related Organizations
Keywords

Neuroscience, Spirituality, Meditation, Sufi practices, Dhikr

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
Green