Thesis
Unpublished
Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyah's Sufistic Psychotherapy for Coping with Depression
Abstract
Depression is a prevalent and severe mental health disorder affecting over 264 million people worldwide, including approximately 6.1% of the Indonesian population. ini indicates that depression is not merely an individual psychological struggle but a significant social issue requiring urgent attention. In the search for effective and holistic healing methods, it is essential to recognize that this condition transcends psychological dimensions and often reflects a spiritual one. Within the tradition of classical Sufi healing, Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah stands out as a scholar who devoted significant attention to mental health. He extensively documented treatments for spiritual ailments, presenting an alternative model for coping with depressive disorders.
This study examines the effectiveness of a Sufistic psychotherapeutic approach in addressing depression, focusing on two core spiritual practices: muhasabah (self-introspection) and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). These practices are deeply rooted in the Islamic Sufi tradition and are central to the works of Ibn Qayyim. Muhasabah is a profound process of self-evaluation that fosters repentance, moral awareness, and spiritual fortitude, enabling individuals to respond to psychological stress with composure and meaningful reflection.
Employing a qualitative, descriptive-analytical method within a library research framework, this study analyzes Ibn Qayyim’s psychotherapeutic concepts primarily through his seminal works, Ad-Dā’ wa ad-Dawā’ and The Antidote to the Sick Heart. A critical approach is applied to evaluate the relevance of his classical ideas within the context of contemporary mental health.
The findings suggest that dhikr functions as a form of spiritual mindfulness that enhances inner peace and mitigates symptoms of depression, such as anxiety and hopelessness. By contemplating the Divine Names and Attributes, individuals cultivate a deeper connection with God as the ultimate source of tranquility. This study concludes that integrating muhasabah and dhikr into modern therapeutic frameworks offers a holistic and culturally relevant model for psychological stability. Finally, the researcher acknowledges the limitations of this study and invites future scholars to refine and expand upon this work to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of Sufistic psychotherapy.
Publication Details
InstitutionUniversity of Darussalam Gontor
DepartmentUshuludin Faculty
SubjectsB Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General)
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BP Islam. Bahaism. Theosophy, etc
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BP Islam. Bahaism. Theosophy, etc
Item ID8067
Deposited12 Jan 2026 03:23