How to Overcome Addiction through Faith: Ibn Al-Qayyim's Rehabilitation Program

Preface

In today’s world, addiction has become a pressing issue affecting millions worldwide, transcending boundaries of culture, religion, and socioeconomic status. As we delve into this topic, we explore a perspective deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, offering insights into how faith can serve as a powerful tool in the rehabilitation of individuals grappling with addiction. Central to our exploration is the profound wisdom of Ibn Al-Qayyim, a revered Islamic scholar whose holistic approach to human psychology and spirituality continues to resonate through the ages.

Introduction

Addiction manifests in various forms, whether through substance abuse or behavioral dependencies, often causing immense suffering to individuals and their loved ones. In response to this epidemic, the integration of faith-based principles into rehabilitation programs has shown promise, addressing not only the physical and psychological dimensions of addiction but also the spiritual void that often underpins it. Ibn Al-Qayyim’s teachings offer a comprehensive framework that bridges the gap between spiritual fulfillment and addiction recovery, providing profound insights into the human condition and the pathways to healing.

In the introduction, Ibn al-Qayyim describes the objective of this work as the achievement of harmony between desires and the intellect through a recognition of the wisdom of religious guidance.

“They are not commanded with anything that He (Allah) needs from them. Nor are they prohibited out of stinginess from Him (Allah) toward them. Rather, His commandments come from His favor (i?sān) and mercy (ra?mah) toward them and His prohibitions are meant to protect and preserve them. It is for this reason we have produced this book to achieve harmony between the desires and the intellect. When the?peace treaty?[between the desires and the intellect] is completed, it becomes easier for the servant to resist against the ego and the devil.”

The Danger of Desires

Islamic teachings recognize desires (hawā) as a fundamental aspect of human nature, capable of leading individuals either towards growth and fulfillment or towards destructive behaviors. While desires themselves are not inherently evil, their unchecked pursuit can lead to harmful consequences, including addiction. Ibn Al-Qayyim elucidates the importance of moderation and mindfulness in managing desires, emphasizing the need for spiritual discipline to safeguard against their excesses.

Are All Desires Evil? Commentary

Contrary to the notion that desires are inherently negative, Islamic teachings promote a balanced approach towards fulfilling legitimate desires while exercising restraint over harmful inclinations. Ibn Al-Qayyim’s insights highlight the transformative potential of harnessing desires in alignment with spiritual principles, thereby fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends mere gratification.

From Desire to Addiction

The progression from unchecked desires to addiction is a journey fraught with peril, marked by a gradual erosion of self-control and spiritual well-being. Addiction, whether to substances or behaviors, ensnares individuals in a cycle of dependency that compromises their physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual vitality. Recognizing the spiritual roots of addiction, Ibn Al-Qayyim’s rehabilitation program offers a beacon of hope, guiding individuals towards reclaiming their inner strength and reconnecting with their Creator.

Addiction is a formal psychiatric diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Version 5 (DSM-5), the mainstream reference used by mental health professionals in diagnosing mental illnesses. It is referred to as ‘substance abuse disorder’ and includes 11 criteria:

1. Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you are meant to.
2. Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to.
3. Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance.
4. Cravings and urges to use the substance.
5. Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because of use of the substance.
6. Continuing to use the substance, even when it causes problems in relationships.
7. Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of use of the substance.
8. Using the substance again and again, even when it puts you in danger.
9. Continuing to use the substance, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by it.
10. ?Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want (tolerance).
11. ?Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance.

Severity of addiction is determined by the number of criteria that apply to an individual (Mild 2-3; Moderate 4-5; Severe?>?6). From the above criteria, four domains of addiction have been recognized: physical dependence, risky use, social problems, and impaired control.

Physical dependence refers to the neurobiological changes that occur due to repetitive activation of reward pathways in the brain.

?One of these changes is described as ‘tolerance’ and is the 10th criterion listed in the DSM-5. Tolerance occurs when the same amount of stimulus evokes a smaller effect due to its repeated use.

?Dependence is evidenced by ‘withdrawal symptoms’ whereby an individual becomes physiologically unstable without the substance.

?Impaired control, risky use, and social problems constitute the behavioral manifestations of addiction.

Ibn al-Qayyim insightfully makes reference to all four of these domains in his poetic yet academically precise conceptualization of addiction.

It is interesting that the Qur’an groups alcohol (substance) and gambling (behavior) together,

O you who have believed, indeed, alcohol, gambling, (sacrificing on) stone?altars?(to other than Allah), and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

This verse informs us of an essential dimension of addiction largely ignored by therapists. From a spiritual perspective, both substances and behavior share a common satanic pathway in the formation and maintenance of addiction. Al-Alūsī comments on verse 5:90, “It occurs from his (the devil’s) actions because he causes it with his allurement (tazyīn) and temptation (taswīl). It is also said, the ‘from’ (min) indicates origin—that is to say it emerges from his?actions

Ibn al-Qayyim’s rehabilitation program

Addiction is a pervasive challenge that affects individuals across the globe, often leading to profound personal and societal consequences. In addressing this issue, the teachings of Ibn Al-Qayyim, a renowned Islamic scholar, provide a profound framework for rehabilitation rooted in spiritual principles. His approach emphasizes not only the cessation of addictive behaviors but also the cultivation of inner strength and spiritual renewal.

Understanding Ibn Al-Qayyim's Approach

Ibn Al-Qayyim's rehabilitation program is grounded in Islamic teachings that recognize the holistic nature of human beings—body, mind, and soul. Central to his approach are the following principles:

• Tawbah (Repentance): Ibn Al-Qayyim underscores the importance of sincere repentance as a transformative process. Repentance involves acknowledging one’s mistakes, seeking forgiveness from Allah, and committing to positive change. Quranic verses such as "And turn to Allah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed" (Quran 24:31) highlight the profound spiritual benefits of repentance in overcoming past transgressions.
• Sabr (Patience): Patience is a cornerstone of Ibn Al-Qayyim's rehabilitation program. It involves steadfastness and perseverance in overcoming the challenges associated with addiction. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The real patience is at the first stroke of a calamity." (Bukhari) This principle encourages individuals to endure hardships with resilience and trust in Allah's plan.
• Zikr (Remembrance of God): Engaging in the remembrance of Allah through prayers, Quranic recitation, and supplication plays a crucial role in spiritual healing. Ibn Al-Qayyim emphasizes the transformative power of zikr in strengthening one’s spiritual connection and fortifying the heart against temptations. Quranic verses such as "Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest" (Quran 13:28) emphasize the spiritual tranquility attained through zikr.
• Tafakkur (Reflection): Reflection involves introspection and contemplation on one's actions, motives, and consequences. Ibn Al-Qayyim advocates for deep reflection as a means to understand the root causes of addiction, identify triggers, and envision a path towards personal growth and spiritual fulfillment. The Quran encourages believers to reflect on the signs of Allah's creation and His wisdom in creating the universe (Quran 3:191).

Practical Implementation and Guidance

Implementing Ibn Al-Qayyim's rehabilitation program involves integrating these principles into daily life:

• Seeking Knowledge: Educating oneself about Islamic teachings related to addiction, repentance, and spiritual growth.
• Community Support: Engaging with a supportive community of believers who encourage and uplift one another on the journey towards recovery.
• Professional Assistance: Seeking guidance from qualified counselors or therapists who understand both the spiritual and psychological aspects of addiction recovery.

Conclusion: A Journey of Spiritual Renewal

In conclusion, Ibn Al-Qayyim's rehabilitation program offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach to overcoming addiction through faith. By embracing repentance, patience, remembrance of Allah, and reflection, individuals can embark on a journey of spiritual renewal and healing. This holistic approach not only addresses the symptoms of addiction but also nurtures the soul, fostering a deeper connection with Allah and a sense of purpose in life. May Allah grant strength and guidance to all those striving to overcome addiction and attain spiritual well-being.