Psychological Well-Being in the Qur'an: An Analysis of the Story of Prophet Solomon
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23917/qist.v5i2.15598Keywords:
Thematic Qur'anic Exegesis, Wellbeing, Propeth Solomon, Martin SeligmanAbstract
Purpose - Contemporary discussions of well-being are frequently dominated by material and psychological perspectives, whereas the Qur'an presents a more holistic conception integrating spiritual, ethical, and social dimensions. This study examines the compatibility between Martin Seligman's PERMA model of psychological well-being and the Qur'anic narrative of Prophet Solomon (Sulaymān), with the aim of developing a Qur'an-based understanding of human flourishing.
Design/methodology/approach - This study employs a qualitative library-based research design using thematic Qur'anic exegesis (tafsīr mawḍū'ī) and narrative analysis. Primary data consist of Qur'anic verses concerning Prophet Solomon, supported by classical and contemporary Qur'anic commentaries and relevant literature on positive psychology. The PERMA framework-Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment-serves as the analytical lens for interpreting the Qur'anic narrative.
Findings - The findings demonstrate that all five PERMA dimensions are consistently reflected in the life of Prophet Solomon. Gratitude represents positive emotion; wisdom and just decision-making embody engagement; persuasive and compassionate interaction with Queen Bilqis illustrates positive relationships; devotion to Allah and commitment to public welfare constitute meaning; while the responsible use of power, wealth, and divine blessings reflects accomplishment. Collectively, these dimensions indicate that Qur'anic well-being extends beyond psychological flourishing to encompass spiritual consciousness and God-centered ethical responsibility.
Research implications/limitations - This study is limited to the Qur'anic narrative of Prophet Solomon and a conceptual comparison with the PERMA model. Future research should examine other Qur'anic figures and empirically investigate the applicability of the proposed framework within Islamic psychology and well-being studies.
Originality/value - This study contributes to Qur'anic studies and Islamic psychology by integrating a contemporary positive psychology framework with thematic Qur'anic exegesis. It proposes a holistic model of psychological well-being in which gratitude, divine orientation, ethical leadership, and social responsibility function as interconnected dimensions of human flourishing, thereby extending PERMA through a transcendental and theocentric perspective rooted in the Qur'an.
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