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Islamic Mysticism and Spirituality

As one of Al-Mahdi Institute’s six specialist research areas, Islamic Mysticism and Spirituality examines Islamic mystical traditions and spiritual psychology, with particular attention to Shīʿī contributions and their relevance to contemporary life. The research investigates classical sources of spiritual wisdom and their insights into the nature of the self, the soul, and transformative religious experience, engaging modern concerns such as mental health, personal growth, and ethical development. Drawing on historical and interpretive approaches to ʿirfān and related traditions, this work brings Islamic spirituality into sustained dialogue with contemporary scholarly discourse across disciplines. Led by its Research Lead, this research area area convenes a biannual international conference, hosts regular research seminars, publishes edited volumes, and supports visiting fellowships.

Dr Zoheir Esmail​
Research Lead

Dr Zoheir Esmail

Zoheir Esmail, PhD (2016), University of Exeter, is a Lecturer in Islamic Studies at Al-Mahdi Institute. Formerly a chartered accountant, he went on to study full-time in the seminaries of Syria and Qom for 12 years. His doctoral research, Between Philosophy and ʿIrfān: Interpreting Mullā Ṣadrā from the Qajars to Post-Revolutionary Iran, explored the reception of Sadrian thought. Since returning to the UK in 2020, he has taught graduate and postgraduate courses on philosophy, logic, human rights, and contemporary Muslim thought. His research interests include mysticism, spiritual psychology, transcendental philosophy, Qur’anic exegesis, hadith, and early Islamic history.

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