THE article, ‘Can spirituality be a science’? by Nadeem F. Paracha (Eos, May 12), appeared to be based on self-assumptions just to criticize the vision of the Prime Minister Imran Khan, a leader with world exposure.

Unfortunately, modern Muslims prefer Western thought (science) over Islamic knowledge and heritage, as they have forgotten the golden principles of yashhaddoon, yatafakroon, yatadabaroon, yaqaloon etc. which ruled the world. Now they just recite the Holy Qur’an without comprehending its narrations. Perhaps the writer needs further depth, insight and knowledge to dwell upon this sensitive and complicated subject.

With 55 years of teaching, clinical experience and research on human mental functioning (see www.drmshoaibshahid.com), I have found true spiritual concept of Ruh in the Qur’an. It is more objective than human mortal knowledge based on subjective narrations of psychological interpretations which vary from researcher to researcher. Unfortunately, Muslims instead of using research-oriented approach to Divine knowledge have handed over this precious task to mullahs.

I will request Mr Paracha to see my articles related to the subject on my website and then write a fresh article on the concept. (Ruh/Spirit/Insaan/Nafs/Mind/Inner-self.)

In this regard, I have also challenged American Psychiatric Association about the definition of psychology and related aspects in my research book, “Psychological Foundation of the Qur’an (three volumes) for truth-seekers, intellectuals and psychologists, and humanistic worker.

I hope your kind self will realize the importance of this sensitive subject in the Western scientific research-oriented world and Muslim outdated concepts about human nature.

Dr. Muhmmad Shoaib Shahid,
Psychologist/Psychotherapist)
South Carolina, USA

Published in Dawn, May 19th, 2019