Integration of Sufism and Transpersonal Psychology

Abstract

This research explores the valuable intersections and synergies between Sufism and transpersonal psychology, focusing on how these two disciplines can provide deep insights and solutions to social and individual challenges in the modern era. Facing an identity crisis, existential anxiety, and an increasingly urgent search for the meaning of life, this study shows that Sufism and transpersonal psychology offer rich alternative perspectives and practices for answering these existential questions. Through a phenomenological qualitative methodology, the research collected and analyzed data from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with students and supervisors at the Al-Huda Islamic Boarding School in Central Lombok, an environment rich in spiritual and academic practices. The research results show that integrating Sufistic spiritual understanding and transpersonal psychological insight facilitates holistic self-development, providing guidance for achieving higher consciousness and a more meaningful life. In this context, Sufism, with its focus on the direct experience of the divine presence, and transpersonal psychology, emphasizing the expansion of consciousness beyond the ego, both serve as valuable guides in navigating the complexities of human existence. This research underlines that the dialogue between Islamic spiritual traditions and modern psychological science enriches our theoretical understanding and daily practice in dealing with contemporary issues, offering new views on the potential for self-integration and achieving spiritual depth in the current era.