Abstract
This study addresses perceptions of spiritual dryness (a specific form of spiritual struggle) during the COVID-19 pandemic among Iranian Muslims (n = 362), and how these perceptions can be predicted. Spiritual dryness was perceived often to regularly by 27% and occasionally by 35%. Regression models revealed that the best predictors of spiritual dryness (SDS-7) were usage of mood-enhancing medications, loneliness/social isolation and praying as positive predictors, and being restricted in daily life concerns as negative predictor. The pandemic challenges mental stability of people worldwide and may also challenge trust in God. Reliable and humble support of people experiencing these phases is required.
Highlights
Studies have shown that people’s attention to spirituality may increase in times of crisis (Rahnama et al, 2012)
A qualitative study conducted in Iran proposes, “Spirituality is the sublime aspect of human existence bestowed on all humans in order for them to traverse the path of transcendence that is closeness to God (Allah).” (Memaryan et al, 2016)
This study aims to find out whether and how the Muslims in Iran would perceive the phases of spiritual dryness, and how these are related to the indicators of spirituality and wellbeing as reported in other studies (Büssing et al, 2016, 2017a, 2017b, 2018a, 2018b, 2018c, 2021c)
Summary
Studies have shown that people’s attention to spirituality may increase in times of crisis (Rahnama et al, 2012). Depending on the influence of spirituality and religion on each society, spirituality is considered as a resource to cope with the adverse impact of diseases on people’s health (Weber & Pargament, 2014). Religions provide a frame of reference for understanding the experience of suffering, pain and finality (Daaleman & VandeCreek, 2000). Both terms are often used interchangeably, these are conceptually not identical. Spirituality is regarded as a more comprehensive and “individual” opposite of institutional religiosity with its specific doctrines, belief systems and rituals (Büssing, 2012, 2019). The broader and more general concept, spirituality, is defined based on religion and culture, affecting people’s perception of health and illness (Rahnama et al, 2012). The definition is similar to the previous definitions of this concept, both in its main part (transcendence) and in incorporating a God-centered view of spirituality within the context of an Islamic society (Alzahrani et al, 2016)
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