Revitalization of Belief and Spiritual Development of Individuals against Materialist Philosophy: Appraisal on Risale-i-Nur

Abstract

This paper investigates Bediuzzaman Said Nursi’s methodology for the revitalization of belief and spiritual development of individuals through Risale-I-Nur. It analyses Nursi’s concept of Human I, methodology of the spiritual training to save an individual’s belief from materialist philosophy, spiritual guidance for different segments of society, and understanding of ethical values in the Islamic context. The research methodology of the paper is qualitative. The study reveals that Nursi asserts that reflection on the inner world and understanding of human 'I', are a means to comprehend the reality of the Creator and man's role as His representative. However, Nursi's understanding of inner reflection and spirituality is different from traditional Sufiism on many counts. He advises believers to seek guidance from the line of prophethood as opposed to that of philosophy to protect themselves from materialist ideologies. The study also reveals that Risale provides spiritual guidance for almost every segment of society and advises the believers to see tribulations as an opportunity for their spiritual growth. Finally, the research concludes that Nursi sees the man and the universe as closely related wherein observing ethical values in the light of religion brings about harmony between the two.