A Thematic Analysis of the Cognitive–Behavioral Dimensions of Suffering for the Prevention of Its Psychological Consequences in the Qurʾān

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Student in Psychology, Semnan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Semnan, Iran

2 Corresponding Author, Associate Professor of Psychology, Tehran Markaz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor of Psychology, Semnan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Semnan, Iran:

Abstract

Objective: An important part of all human lives is somehow accompanied by suffering. These sufferings can lead to various psychological harms., but avoiding these harms requires proper understanding of the nature of suffering and adopting the right behavior in the face of suffering. This study aims to examine the two cognitive and behavioral dimensions of suffering from the verses of the Holy Quran as a practical guide to life, and tries to present an appropriate model to prevent psychological harms caused by suffering.
Research method: This study is qualitative and employs thematic analysis. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA software, which extracted a total of 2 overarching themes, 3 global themes, 6 organizing themes, and 19 basic themes. The relationships between these themes were then presented in the form of a model.
Findings:  The results of the study showed that, based on the model presented in the verses of the Quran, humans can gain a deep understanding of their suffering by reflecting on the why of their suffering (human existential evaluation, determinism, denial of truth, de-spiritualization, spiritual dissatisfaction, violation of moral norms, negative moral characteristics) as well as the how of their suffering (loss of worldly attachments, both physical and financial).
Conclusion: This understanding helps them to exhibit appropriate behaviors when suffering occurs, such as (Satisfaction, spiritual focus, change and desire for improvement, acceptance of reality, improvement and promotion of moral qualities, patience, self-monitoring and self-control) in order to prevent many psychological harms

Keywords

References

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The Quran and Science
Volume 19, Issue 37 - Serial Number 37
January 2026
Pages 151-188

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  • Receive Date: 07 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 05 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 03 December 2025

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