An Elucidation of the Biophysical Framework of the Effects of Quran Recitation on the Nervous System (With Emphasis on the Perspectives of Ayatollah Khamenei)

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Theology and Islamic Studies, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Objective: To establish an integrated biophysical and neurophysiological framework explaining the mechanisms through which auditory Quranic recitation (murattal) induces physiological homeostasis and psychological relief across diverse clinical cohorts.
Methodology: A comprehensive systematic meta-synthesis was conducted by pooling empirical data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and molecular biomarker assays across post-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, neurosurgical candidates, hemodialysis (CKD) patients, and mechanically ventilated ICU cohorts.
Findings: The study introduces the "Neuro-Acoustic and Psycho-Spiritual Model of Auditory Recitation" (NAPSM-AR). This unified paradigm demonstrates that Quranic recitation operates via two synchronized pathways: (1) a mechanosomatic-acoustic pathway that modulates cellular mechanotransduction and entrains cortical EEG alpha and theta power bands; and (2) a psycho-spiritual cognitive-vagal pathway that engages the limbic system, stimulates the vagus nerve (PNS), suppresses the HPA axis, and attenuates the sympathetic fight-or-flight response. Synthesized clinical evidence demonstrates statistically significant reductions in post-surgical pain, a 53.5% decrease in pre-operative anxiety, vital sign stabilization, marked suppression of systemic inflammatory markers (IL-6, CRP, ESR), and reduced ICU/hospital length of stay. These neuro-vagal effects align closely with Ayatollah Khamenei’s perspective on conscious listening (insat), meaning-centered reflection (tadabbur), and humble melodic cadence (khushu').
Conclusion: Auditory Quran recitation represents a potent, non-invasive, cost-effective, and safe non pharmacological complementary therapy. By bridging the gap between clinical biophysics and spiritual intervention, it warrants formal integration into evidence-based, patient-centered, biopsychosocial healthcare protocols.

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 06 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 02 April 2025
  • Accept Date: 24 April 2025

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