A heuristic enquiry of being “Alaq,” suspended in liminality as a convert to Islam

This thesis explores the lived experience of liminality of converts to Islam through a heuristic enquiry of the state of being “Alaq,” characterised by liminality and inner conflict, particularly concerning identity formation, psychological impasse and spiritual development (tazkiyat-un-nafs). Drawing on both Islamic and Western psychological perspectives, the study offers deep self-enquiry into the challenges faced by converts, providing insights into integrating Islamic practices within psychotherapeutic frameworks.

The methodology employed is heuristic enquiry, chosen for its resonance with both the experiential nature of the study and the spiritual objectives of tazkiyat-un-nafs. Through immersive phases of self-reflection, including immersion, incubation, illumination, and creative synthesis, the researcher engaged in personal religious practices such as prayer, meditation, and supplication. This process facilitated a profound exploration of both the researcher's and co-researchers' experiences, revealing nuanced understandings of liminality and psycho-spiritual transformation.

A significant and unique finding of this research is the researcher's personal revelation and recognition of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a contributing factor to prolonged experiences of her liminal stuckness. This intersection of neurodivergence and spiritual practice underscores the potential of integrated psycho-spiritual approaches in addressing complex identity and mental health issues.

The conclusions highlight the parallel processes between the liminality of religious conversion and the journey through heuristic enquiry, demonstrating how these experiences can foster both personal healing and professional development. The research underscores the critical role of converts as “bridge builders” in multicultural and interfaith contexts and advocates for the utilisation of heuristic enquiry by Muslim psychotherapists to deepen self-awareness and authenticity in their practice.

Recommendations from this study emphasise the importance of integrating religious and spiritual practices into both research methodologies and therapeutic interventions. It calls for tailored support frameworks for neurodivergent individuals within academic and professional settings, acknowledging the unique cognitive and emotional landscapes they navigate.

This study contributes to the evolving field of Islamic psychology by illustrating that the pursuit of knowledge and well-being benefits profoundly from a harmonious blend of rigorous academic enquiry and committed personal embodiment of tazkiyah principles, thereby promoting holistic healing and enriched understanding across diverse contexts.