ABSTRACT

Spiritual abuse in Muslim contexts can occur across various settings, including domestic environments, religious institutions, and secular spaces. Perpetrators of abuse have been identified as both those in positions of religious authority and everyday community members, particularly those who may hold influence within community or familial networks. This chapter examines three domains of response to spiritual abuse: within grassroot initiatives, online activism, and academic enquiry. It goes on to illustrate the dynamic efforts by Muslims in the UK and the US to take ownership of issues surrounding spiritual abuse. In exploring the innovative mechanisms through which spiritual abuse is being addressed and resisted, the chapter highlights the risks involved in such sensitive work, as well as the potential outcomes.