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Effects of Mysticism on Personality Development: A Comparative Study among Muslims and Christians in Sialkot, Pakistan


Article Information

Title: Effects of Mysticism on Personality Development: A Comparative Study among Muslims and Christians in Sialkot, Pakistan

Authors: Salbia Abbas, Sahifa Zaheer khan, Muhadisa Naqvi

Journal: Al-Milal: Journal of Religion and Thought

HEC Recognition History
Category From To
Y 2024-10-01 2025-12-31
Y 2023-07-01 2024-09-30
Y 2020-07-01 2021-06-30

Publisher: Al Milal Foundation

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2022

Volume: 4

Issue: 1

Language: English

Categories

Abstract

The present study aims to examine the effects of Mysticism on Personality development among Muslims and Christians. A cross-sectional study design and convenient non-probability sampling technique was used in the study to inspect the effects of mysticism on personalities of Muslims and Christians in Sialkot, Pakistan. A sample of 200 participants was taken within the age range of above 18 years to below 50 years. The study was conducted during the period of 4 months (March-June 2020) during COVID-19 pandemic. A self-developed demographic sheet, PANAS and Quest scales were used for data collection. The findings of the current study revealed that mysticism has significant positive relationship with personality development (r=0.175, p<0.05) among Muslims and Christians respectively.  Significant differences were found on study variables. Furthermore, it is found that different socio-demographic factors also contributed in the development of personalities. It is concluded from the findings that increased levels of mysticism has positive effect on personality development among both Muslims and Christians. It is highly recommended for Future researchers to use the current study to explore different factors like; is there any negative impact of mysticism on personalities? or what will be the consequences if illiterate people start following any fake mystics and follow the wrong teachings of religions and so many others?
 


Research Objective

To examine the effects of mysticism on personality development among Muslims and Christians in Sialkot, Pakistan.


Methodology

A cross-sectional study design with a convenient non-probability sampling technique was employed. A sample of 200 participants (aged 18-50 years) was recruited from Muslim and Christian communities in Sialkot, Pakistan. Data was collected over four months (March-June 2020) during the COVID-19 pandemic using a self-developed demographic sheet, the PANAS scale, and the Quest scale. Statistical analysis included ANOVA, multiple regression, correlation, and frequency distribution.

Methodology Flowchart
                        graph TD;
    A[Define Research Objective] --> B[Select Study Design: Cross-sectional];
    B --> C[Recruit Participants: 200 Muslims & Christians in Sialkot];
    C --> D[Administer Data Collection Tools: Demographic Sheet, PANAS, Quest Scales];
    D --> E[Data Analysis: ANOVA, Regression, Correlation, Frequency Distribution];
    E --> F[Interpret Results];
    F --> G[Formulate Conclusions & Recommendations];                    

Discussion

The study suggests that mysticism positively influences personality development in both Muslim and Christian individuals, aligning with previous research on Sufism and Christian mysticism. Both traditions emphasize a connection with God and ethical values, contributing to personal growth. The symbolic interpretation of sacred texts plays a crucial role in both mystical traditions.


Key Findings

Mysticism has a significant positive relationship with personality development (r=0.175, p<0.05) among both Muslims and Christians. Significant differences were found on study variables, and socio-demographic factors also contributed to personality development. Increased levels of mysticism positively affect personality development in both religious groups.


Conclusion

Mysticism (Tasawwuf/Sufism) positively impacts personality development in individuals with mystic tendencies, including both Muslims and Christians. This influence is attributed to a perceived direct connection with God, God consciousness, and otherworldliness, which encourages positive behaviors and spirituality.


Fact Check

1. Sample Size: The study involved a sample of 200 participants. (Confirmed in Methodology)
2. Study Period: The data collection took place over 4 months, from March to June 2020. (Confirmed in Abstract)
3. Correlation Coefficient: A positive significant relationship between mysticism and personality development was found with r=0.175. (Confirmed in Results and Interpretations)


Mind Map

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