ABSTRACT
Health psychology examines the bio-psychosocial and environmental factors of life, and how these interact and affect physical health. Within the realm of Islamic health psychology, another dimension is introduced to this model: The spiritual dimension, which, for Muslims, cannot be disconnected from the physical body. Developing a framework for the understanding of health psychology from an Islamic perspective is important for both theoretical and applied reasons. Islamic health psychology is about a health behaviour and improved quality of life that results in wholeness and soundness of body and soul by adhering to the commands of Allah, the Exalted, and the teachings of the Messenger of Allah (https://s3-euw1-ap-pe-df-pch-content-public-p.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/9780429354762/7fb59413-c59c-4354-a39b-75035eb649db/content/inline1_1_B.tif" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"/>). The “Islamic health theory” explains the underlying principles of Islamic notions of health through an elaboration of three major Islamic concepts: “Five pillars of Islam,” “element of Iman – faith” and “Islamic jurisprudence.” This concept of Islamic jurisprudence is the one that binds together the two preceding concepts, the five pillars and the elements of Iman. Tawakkul is a fundamental part of the Islamic belief system. Fear of Allah (Taqwa): This is another concept in the layer that has a significant influence on behaviour and health behaviour. A believer should remain between fear and hope. The predisposing factors of importance for health psychology from an Islamic perspective operate primarily in the spiritual, metaphysical, physical and psychological realms. The concept of intention (Niyah), in Islam, is an important and essential component influencing deeds and actions. Behavioural intention is a central component of the Islamic model of health psychology.
