Periasamy, Venisry and Abdul Azmil, Ameerah and Borhan, Lihanna (2025) Religious perspectives on self-compassion in positive psychology: insights from Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism. IIUM Journal of Human Sciences, 7 (2). pp. 45-59. E-ISSN 2682-8731
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Abstract
Self-compassion, a concept increasingly popular in positive psychology, is often viewed from a secular perspective despite its deep roots in religious and philosophical traditions. This paper explores self-compassion within the theological, ethical, and spiritual frameworks of four major religions: Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Drawing on sacred texts, doctrinal teachings, and religious practices, the study demonstrates how these faiths not only reflect but also extend Kristin Neff’s model of self-compassion, which includes self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Each religion offers unique insights—Islam emphasises divine mercy and repentance; Christianity concentrates on grace, forgiveness, and transformation; Buddhism integrates loving-kindness and the universality of suffering; and Hinduism grounds compassion in the sacred self and the principles of karma and non-violence. The findings suggest that religious teachings frame self-compassion not merely as a psychological concept, but as a moral and spiritual obligation. This integration enriches the understanding of self-compassion and offers practical implications for culturally and spiritually sensitive mental health practices
| Item Type: | Article (Journal) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Self-compassion, Positive Psychology, Religious Perspectives, Mental Health, Mindfulness |
| Subjects: | B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Psychology |
| Depositing User: | Dr Lihanna Borhan |
| Date Deposited: | 31 Dec 2025 16:16 |
| Last Modified: | 31 Dec 2025 16:16 |
| Queue Number: | 2025-12-Q1347 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/126455 |
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