Quranic Conceptual Model for Mental Health Treatment: Focus on Dhikr and Nafs-Oriented Attention
Journal of Pizhūhish dar dīn va Salāmat (i.e., Research on Religion & Health),
Vol. 12 No. 3 (2026),
23 September 2026
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Mental disorders in dominant psychological approaches are primarily defined based on behavioral, cognitive, or biological explanations, but research evidence indicates significant shortcomings in these approaches. The Holy Quran, as a divine and comprehensive source, has the capacity to provide a fundamental framework for understanding disorders and outlining a therapeutic model. The objective of this study is to explain the fundamental position and role of "dhikr" (remembrance) and "attention of the soul" in the theory of psychopathology and treatment of mental disorders from the perspective of the Holy Quran, and to present a conceptual model for clinical intervention.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using a textual content analysis approach, based on the methods of "tadabbur Quran to Quran" (reflection on the Quran through the Quran), "surah-based tadabbur" (with special focus on the blessed Surah Qaf), and "word-based tadabbur." Data were collected by examining all verses related to dhikr and attention of the soul, along with analyzing narrations and interpretive sources. Analysis was performed through coding and categorizing Quranic concepts to extract the disorder model and therapeutic system based on Quranic constructs. In this study, all ethical principles have been observed, and the authors have reported no conflicts of interest.
Findings: The results showed that "dhikr," meaning conscious turning toward innate truths and remembrance of God, is a fundamental construct in mental health, and "attention of the soul," as the director of perception and behavior, is the condition for realizing dhikr. From the Quranic perspective, mental disorders stem from negligence and disruption in the axis of dhikr and attention. Accordingly, the Quranic therapeutic model was formed in four stages: descent of dhikr (reminder and awakening of innate nature), awakening of attention (activation of inner awareness), reconstruction of psychological structure (correction of attitudes and emotions), and stabilization of dhikr (sustainability in divine orientation). This model, while distinct from conventional religious-spiritual treatments, has the potential for integration with modern psychological interventions such as mindfulness.
Conclusion: Dhikr and attention of the soul are two fundamental pillars of mental health in the Quran. Disruption in these two pillars is identified as the main source of psychological and behavioral imbalances. The proposed model can serve as a basis for developing indigenous therapeutic protocols in Islamic psychology and provide a novel approach to enhancing psychological treatments.
- Dhikr, Attention of the soul, Psychological disorder, Holy Quran, Therapeutic approach
How to Cite
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