Published Research 

A comparison between the concepts of Heuristic Enquiry and Tazkiyat-un-nafs. 

Cardo, G., & Tudor, K. (2024). A comparison between the concepts of Heuristic Enquiry and Tazkiyat-un-nafs. European Journal for Qualitative Research in Psychotherapy, 14.

Abstract:

This article offers a comparison between concepts of heuristic enquiry and tazkiyat-un-nafs, the Islamic concept of self/soul purification and/or reformation of the spiritual heart (qalb). The article outlines key concepts of heuristic research methodologyas identified by Moustakas (1990) and Sela-Smith (2002) and elaborated by McCann and Tudor (2024). We reflect on the first author’s experience while undertaking some original research under the supervision of the second author, both of whom share an interest in cultural and religious identity and how this is or is not considered in psychotherapy (Florence et al., 2019; Tudor, 2019). From that original research, in this article, we discuss the concepts of heuristic research as they exemplify heuristic methodology compared with the Islamic practice of tazkiyat-un-nafs, identifying the noticeable differences between them. The article aims to support researchers who consider integrating Islam into their psychotherapeutic research –and, in parallel, their psychotherapy practice; as such, we view this as a contribution to the Islamic psychology and psychotherapy movement

https://www.ejqrp.org/index.php/ejqrp/article/view/298

Doctoral Research

A Heuristic Enquiry of being “Alaq,” suspended in Liminality as a Convert to Islam.

Abstract

This thesis explores the lived experience of liminality of converts to Islam through a heuristic enquiry of the state of being “Alaq,” characterised by liminality and inner conflict, particularly concerning identity formation, psychological impasse and spiritual development (tazkiyat-un-nafs). Drawing on both Islamic and Western psychological perspectives, the study offers deep self-enquiry into the challenges faced by converts, providing insights into integrating Islamic practices within psychotherapeutic frameworks. 

The methodology employed is heuristic enquiry, chosen for its resonance with both the experiential nature of the study and the spiritual objectives of tazkiyat-un-nafs. Through immersive phases of self-reflection, including immersion, incubation, illumination, and creative synthesis, the researcher engaged in personal religious practices such as prayer, meditation, and supplication. This process facilitated a profound exploration of both the researcher’s and co-researchers’ experiences, revealing nuanced understandings of liminality and psycho-spiritual transformation. 

A significant and unique finding of this research is the researcher’s personal revelation and recognition of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a contributing factor to prolonged experiences of her liminal stuckness. This intersection of neurodivergence and spiritual practice underscores the potential of integrated psycho-spiritual approaches in addressing complex identity and mental health issues.

The conclusions highlight the parallel processes between the liminality of religious conversion and the journey through heuristic enquiry, demonstrating how these experiences can foster both personal healing and professional development. The research underscores the critical role of converts as “bridge builders” in multicultural and interfaith contexts and advocates for the utilisation of heuristic enquiry by Muslim psychotherapists to deepen self-awareness and authenticity in their practice. 

Recommendations from this study emphasise the importance of integrating religious and spiritual practices into both research methodologies and therapeutic interventions. It calls for tailored support frameworks for neurodivergent individuals within academic and professional settings, acknowledging the unique cognitive and emotional landscapes they navigate. 

This study contributes to the evolving field of Islamic psychology by illustrating that the pursuit of knowledge and well-being benefits profoundly from a harmonious blend of rigorous academic enquiry and committed personal embodiment of tazkiyah principles, thereby promoting holistic healing and enriched understanding across diverse contexts.