Islam and Meditation
The Oxford Handbook of Meditation February 10, 2021 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198808640.013.9
Summary
Sufi Muslims engage in various meditative practices that build on ritual prayer, aiming to introspect and purify the heart. These practices include dhikr (repeating phrases from the Qur'an), muraqaba (wordless contemplation), samaʿ (using music or motion), and others like supplication and litanies. Each method seeks to combat selfishness and egoistic delusion, contributing to the greater spiritual struggle known as the 'greater jihad.'
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Sufi meditative practices aim to combat selfishness and egoistic delusion through various methods such as remembrance and contemplation. |
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Abstract
Abstract In the Islamic tradition, diverse meditative practices expand on elements of the ritual prayer. Sufi Muslims explore their potential as independent practices to introspect, uncover the delusion of the ego, and purify the heart. There is no single term meaning “meditation.” Dhikr or remembrance consists of repeating phrases from Qurʾan or names of God. Focusing on God’s presence without words is called muraqaba or contemplation. More embodied practices use music or motion as meditative tools, known as samaʿ or ecstatic listening. Supplication, benediction, and recitation of litanies have meditative qualities. All these meditative practices have the single aim of waging the “greater jihad” against selfishness and egoistic delusion.