The Qur’an and Spiritual Healing: Tadabbur as a Modality of Spiritual Medicine in a Psychoneuroimmunological Framework
Keywords:
spiritual health, tadabbur, behavioral medicine, spiritual medicine, Islamic psychologyAbstract
Reading the Quran not only strengthens faith but also positively impacts spiritual and behavioural well-being. Within Islamic tradition, the Quran is understood as a comprehensive source of guidance that nurtures the heart, intellect, and moral character of individuals. In contemporary health discourse, increasing attention has been directed toward the role of spirituality in fostering psychological resilience and holistic well-being. This study aims to review the benefits of Quranic recitation on spiritual health from both Islamic and medical literature perspectives, particularly within the framework of behavioral medicine and psychoneuroimmunology. Using a qualitative literature review approach, this study synthesizes findings from Islamic classical texts, contemporary Quranic exegesis, medical literature, and empirical studies examining the psychological and physiological effects of spiritual practices. The findings indicate that tadabbur (deep contemplation of the Quran) plays a significant role in reducing stress, enhancing mental focus, and strengthening coping mechanisms against life stressors. Through reflective engagement with Quranic meanings, individuals are able to cognitively reframe adversity, regulate emotional responses, and cultivate inner tranquility. From a neurophysiological perspective, Quranic recitation stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is associated with calmness and relaxation, while contributing to reduced cortisol levels and improved neuroendocrine balance. These effects support emotional stability and psychophysiological harmony. In Islamic thought, reading the Quran functions as dzikr (remembrance of God) and syifa’ (healing of the soul), as reflected in QS. ar-Ra’d [13]:28, which emphasizes the calming effect of divine remembrance on the human heart. Therefore, reading the Quran demonstrates significant therapeutic value for spiritual health through the integration of medical science and Islamic spirituality.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Labib, Abdullah A Afifi, Inne Indraaryani Suryaalamsah, Achmad Muchlis, Agnes Hamdini, Edi Sugianto
