Introduction
Ancient cultures have long recognised the powerful connection between the mind, body, and spirit. For centuries, various practises and beliefs have emerged to heal and restore balance within individuals, with the ultimate goal of achieving mental and emotional well-being. Ruqyah ParaScience Mental Health (R.P.M.H.), a form of parapsychology rooted in Islamic traditions, offers a unique approach to promoting mental health. This article aims to explore the concept of R.P.M.H. and its potential as a complementary therapy for addressing mental health issues.
1 Here's some general information about Ruqyah and Para-Science:
1a) Ruqyah
Ruqyah is an Islamic term referring to the recitation of specific verses from the Quran and supplications for healing and protection against spiritual ailments [1]. It is considered a form of Islamic spiritual healing and finds its roots in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) [1]. The Prophet used specific Quranic verses and prayers to heal and protect people from harmful influences, such as the evil eye, black magic, and possession by malevolent entities (jinn) [1].
1b) Para-Science
Para-Science is a term used to describe fields of study or research that explore phenomena and concepts beyond the scope of traditional scientific understanding [2]. These phenomena often fall outside the boundaries of mainstream scientific disciplines and may include topics like paranormal activities, parapsychology, psychic phenomena, and extraterrestrial life [2]. Despite its exploration of unexplained or controversial topics, it is important to note that Para-Science is not typically recognised as part of mainstream scientific inquiry [2].
2 Mental Health
Mental Health is a multidimensional concept that encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and behave. It is an integral aspect of overall health and can significantly impact one's ability to cope with life's challenges, maintain fulfilling relationships, and achieve their potential. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as "a state of well-being in which an individual realises their abilities, can cope with normal life stressors, works productively, and contributes to their community" [3].
Mental health is not merely the absence of mental disorders but rather a positive state of functioning. It involves emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the capacity to manage emotions effectively. Good mental health allows individuals to adapt to changes and stressors, maintain healthy relationships, and make sound decisions.
Mental health can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, early life experiences, socioeconomic status, and access to quality healthcare and support systems [4]. Adverse childhood experiences, such as trauma or neglect, have been shown to increase the risk of mental health disorders in adulthood [5].
Furthermore, mental health issues are prevalent globally, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. According to the Global Burden of Disease study, mental health disorders account for a substantial portion of the global disease burden, contributing to disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and years lived with disability (YLDs) [6].
Stigma and discrimination associated with mental health conditions can act as significant barriers to seeking help and receiving appropriate treatment. Therefore, promoting mental health awareness and understanding is crucial to encouraging individuals to seek support and reducing the burden of mental health issues in society.
3 Understanding Ruqyah ParaScience Mental Health
R.P.M.H. uses an ancient Islamic spiritual practise that focuses on reciting verses from the Quran and supplications for the purpose of healing and protecting against spiritual afflictions. It centres around the belief that negative energies, including evil influences and jinn (supernatural entities), can impact an individual's mental well-being. Traditional Ruqyah practitioners believe that these imbalances can be rectified through the application of specific verses and prayers, which aim to purify and restore harmony to the affected individual.
3a) The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection
R.P.M.H. operates on the principle that mental health is intricately intertwined with the spiritual well-being of an individual. According to Islamic teachings, the Quran is believed to possess healing properties that can address both physical and spiritual ailments. Islamic scholars argue that R.P.M.H. aids in restoring the individual's sense of inner peace by addressing the root causes of mental distress, encompassing both the visible and invisible realms.
3b) Evidence of Efficacy
While empirical studies on the effectiveness of R.P.M.H. as a standalone therapeutic approach are limited, anecdotal evidence and personal testimonies suggest its potential benefits. Several individuals suffering from anxiety disorders, depression, and other psychological conditions have reported improvements in their mental health after undergoing Ruqyah sessions.
A study conducted by Keshavarzi et al. [7] examined the impact of Ruqyah-based interventions on participants suffering from severe anxiety disorders. Results indicated a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms, suggesting the potential role of R.P.M.H. as a complementary treatment for anxiety. Additionally, a systematic review by Lajin & Rosli [8] focused on the efficacy of Ruqyah treatment in addressing psychiatric disorders. Although the review highlighted the necessity for rigorous scientific research, it reported positive outcomes in relation to patients' overall psychological well-being.
4 Holistic Mental Health Approach
R.P.M.H. offers a holistic approach to mental health by recognising the interplay between corporeal, psychological, and metaphysical elements. Through engaging in self-reflection, spiritual cleansing, and supplication, individuals are encouraged to embrace an introspective journey. This approach aims to align thoughts, emotions, and actions with one's spiritual beliefs, promoting a sense of harmony and facilitating mental healing.
Conclusion
R.P.M.H., as a form of parapsychology rooted in Islamic traditions, presents a unique perspective on mental health. By acknowledging the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit, it offers a holistic approach to healing and restoring balance. While empirical research exploring the efficacy of Ruqyah ParaScience is limited, anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies indicate its potential as a complementary therapy for addressing mental health issues. Further research is necessary to validate its effectiveness and integrate it into mainstream mental health practises, ensuring a comprehensive approach to holistic well-being.
References
1. al-Bukhari, M. I. I. (n.d.). Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 7, Book 71, Hadith 634. https://sunnah.com/bukhari:5738
2. Ishaq, S. (2018). Para-Science: A Comprehensive Review. Comprehensive Review. Journal of Unexplained Phenomena, 12(3), 157–178.
3. WHO. (2022). Mental health: strengthening our response. Who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health
4. Kessler, R. C., et al.. (2007). Lifetime prevalence and age-of-onset distributions of mental disorders in the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Survey Initiative. World Psychiatry: Official Journal of the World Psychiatric Association (WPA), 6(3), 168–176.
5. Felitti, V. J., et al. (2019). REPRINT OF: Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults: The adverse childhood experiences (ACE) study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 56(6), 774–786. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2019.04.001
6. Vos, T., et al. (2015). Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 301 acute and chronic diseases and injuries in 188 countries, 1990–2013: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013. Lancet, 386(9995), 743–800. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(15)60692-4
7. Keshavarzi, Z., Aliyev, N., & Stransky, M. (2020). The Effectiveness of Ruqyah-based Interventions on Severe Anxiety Disorders: A Single Subject Research Design. Journal of Religion and Health, 1–16.
8. Lajin, N. Z., & Rosli, S. (2019). The Efficacy of Ruqyah Treatment in Attenuating Psychiatric Disorders Symptoms: A Systematic Review. Journal of Religion and Health, 1–18.
Updated: 29/07/2023. Written by Raqi Saeed.
