THE CONCEPT OF SELF-HEALING: A COMPARATIVE INTEGRATION BETWEEN AL-IMAM AL-GHAZALI AND CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOLOGY
Konsep Self-Healing Psikospiritual dalam Islam: Perbandingan Integrasi antara al-Imam al-Ghazali dan Psikologi Kontemporari
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of global mental health issues demands a holistic approach that encompasses both psychological and spiritual dimensions. Modern psychology introduces the concept of self-healing as a self-directed recovery process grounded in cognitive awareness and emotional regulation. In contrast, Islam -through the concept of tazkiyah al-nafs articulated by al-Imām al-Ghazālī in Iḥyā’ ‘Ulūm al-Dīn- emphasises purification of the soul based on reliance upon Allah SWT and the strengthening of spiritual practices. This study aims to compare both paradigms to understand the philosophical foundations, objectives, and sources of healing that shape human well-being. This qualitative study employs document analysis of classical Islamic texts and modern psychological literature. A thematic approach is used to identify the main constructs, healing mechanisms, and epistemological foundations within both frameworks. The analysis reveals that both approaches emphasise inner well-being and emotional balance but differ in epistemological orientation. Self-healing is based on self-autonomy, cognitive training, and emotional management techniques such as T.H.I.N.K, P.L-E.A.S.E, and A.B.C., whereas al-Ghazālī’s tazkiyah al-nafs focuses on mujāhadah al-nafs, riyāḍah al-nafs, prayer, remembrance (dhikr), repentance (taubah), and qiyām al-layl as mechanisms for spiritual purification. In conclusion, self-healing strengthens psychological resilience through self-empowerment, while tazkiyah al-nafs establishes spiritual well-being through divine consciousness. The integration of both approaches offers a comprehensive psychospiritual well-being model that balances human effort with reliance on the Divine. This study is limited to conceptual analysis; future empirical research is recommended to assess the effectiveness of this integrative model within Islamic educational and therapeutic contexts.
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