Spirituality in Adler’s Lifestyle and Its Critique From the Perspective of Islamic Sources

Background and Objectives: Lifestyle is the cornerstone of Adler’s theory and manifests itself through five tasks of life, one of which is the task of spirituality. The purpose of the present study was to investigate and critique the concept of spirituality in Adler’s lifestyle concerning Islamic sources. Methods: The present review consisted of two stages: In the first stage, the concept of lifestyle in Adler’s theory was presented, followed by Adler’s perspective on spirituality and its importance as derived from various available sources. In the second stage, using Islamic sources, including verses and traditions, as well as some related literature, Adler’s views on spirituality were examined and critiqued. Results: The findings showed that according to Adler, spirituality and spiritual tasks are one of the branches of the lifestyle tree and represent a behavioral recommendation that lacks any cognitive (attitude) or motivational basis. In this theory, humans are social beings who move through life in pursuit of imaginary goals directed toward the future. Although Adler himself was a Christian, he considered God to be unreal, viewing Him as merely an imaginary idea, and his concept of spirituality had nothing to do with God and religion. Thus, his proposed spirituality is a personal and secular matter. In contrast, from the perspective of Islam, spirituality derives from the interpretation and knowledge that religion provides about humanity, existence, God, origin and resurrection, and the end and purpose of life. If all human behavior is regulated toward the goals of creation and worship, life will take on a spiritual dimension. Islamic spirituality does not exist without communication with God. Unlike Adler, who considered humans as purely social beings, Islamic teachings, which adopt a two-dimensional perspective on existence and humanity, lead to the generalization of life from this world to the hereafter and from the material to the material-spiritual, resulting in a more meaningful existence. Conclusion: Contrary to Adler’s theory, in which spirituality is viewed only as a personal behavior, Islamic spirituality is not only a ritualistic practice but also an integral part of life ; in the light of divine perspective, the entirety of life is imbued with spirituality.