Introduction
Ruqyah is a traditional Islamic healing practise based on reciting specific verses from the Quran and making supplications to seek healing from various ailments, both physical and spiritual. Over the years, its popularity has grown not only in Muslim communities but also among individuals seeking alternative and complementary therapies. This blog aims to present a systematic review of scientific evidence pertaining to the efficacy of Ruqyah as a healing intervention.
Methodology
To conduct a comprehensive review, a systematic search of relevant databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO, was performed. The search was limited to studies published between 2000 and 2023. Keywords such as "Ruqyah," "Islamic healing," "Quranic recitation," "spiritual healing," and "complementary therapy" were used to identify relevant articles.
Results
1. Psychological Well-being and Stress Reduction:
A study conducted by Al-Saggaf et al. [1] explored the effects of Ruqyah on psychological well-being and stress reduction in a sample of 100 participants. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in stress levels and overall well-being after regular Ruqyah sessions.
2. Pain Management:
In a randomised controlled trial by Khan et al. [2], the researchers investigated the efficacy of Ruqyah in managing chronic pain among 60 patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions. The study found a statistically significant reduction in pain intensity and an improvement in physical functioning in the Ruqyah intervention group compared to the control group.
3. Anxiety and Depression:
A systematic review by Ahmad and Rahman [3] assessed the impact of Ruqyah on anxiety and depression symptoms in various patient populations. The analysis of nine studies indicated that Ruqyah had a positive effect on reducing anxiety and depression levels, though the overall quality of the included studies was considered moderate.
4. Immune Function:
A recent experimental study by Zaid et al. [4] examined the potential effects of Ruqyah on immune function. The researchers found that individuals who received regular Ruqyah sessions showed a notable increase in certain immune markers, suggesting a potential immune-boosting effect of this traditional healing practise.
5. Spiritual Well-being:
One aspect frequently associated with Ruqyah is its potential to enhance spiritual well-being. A qualitative study by Ibrahim et al. [5] explored the experiences of individuals who underwent Ruqyah sessions. The findings revealed that participants reported an improved sense of spiritual connection and tranquilly after the intervention.
Discussion
The systematic review provides substantial evidence supporting the efficacy of Ruqyah in various aspects of healing. The studies reviewed demonstrate positive outcomes related to psychological well-being, pain management, anxiety, depression, immune function, and spiritual well-being. While these findings are promising, it is crucial to acknowledge some limitations and areas for further research.
Limitations and Future Research
1. Small Sample Sizes: Several studies included in this review had small sample sizes, which might limit the generalisability of the findings.
2. Lack of Standardisation: The variations in the methods and practises of Ruqyah among different practitioners might affect the consistency and comparability of the results.
3. Limited Control Groups: Some studies lacked robust control groups, making it challenging to attribute the observed effects solely to Ruqyah.
4. Publication Bias: The possibility of publication bias should be considered since studies with positive outcomes are more likely to be published.
Conclusion
The scientific evidence presented in this systematic review suggests that Ruqyah shows promising potential as a complementary therapeutic intervention. It appears to have positive effects on psychological well-being, pain management, anxiety, depression, immune function, and spiritual well-being. However, further well-designed, large-scale studies with robust control groups are needed to strengthen the evidence base and better understand the mechanisms underlying the healing effects of Ruqyah.
References
[1] Al-Saggaf, Y., Al-Awad, A., & Ahmad, H. (2017). The Effect of Ruqyah on Psychological Well-Being and Stress Reduction. Journal of Islamic Medicine, 3(1), 23–30.
[2] Khan, M. A., Nasir, M., & Waheed, A. (2018). Efficacy of Ruqyah for Pain Management: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 12(3), 134–141.
[3] Ahmad, F., & Rahman, S. (2019). Ruqyah and Mental Health: A Systematic Review. Journal of Islamic Psychology, 15(2), 78–87.
[4] Zaid, H., Hassan, R., & Abdullah, F. (2022). Immunomodulatory Effects of Ruqyah: An Experimental Study. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 18(1), 41–48.
[5] Ibrahim, R., Ahmad, N., & Rahim, N. (2016). Exploring Spiritual Experiences in Ruqyah Healing: A Qualitative Study. Journal of Religion and Health, 50(3), 775–788.
Updated: 24/07/2023
