Tazkiyatun Nafs in the Age of Social Validation: Detoxifying the Psyche from Digital Stress Contagion

Abstract

This article explores the concept of Tazkiyatun Nafs (spiritual purification) as a remedy for digital stress caused by social media validation in the modern era. Drawing from Sufi teachings, it examines how platforms like Instagram and TikTok exacerbate psychological issues such as FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), envy (ḥasad), and addiction to external validation, aligning these with traditional spiritual ailments like riya (showing off) and ghurūr (self-deception). The study proposes a three-phase Sufi framework—takhalli (purification), tahalli (adornment), and tajalli (illumination)—to detoxify the psyche, emphasizing practices like dhikr (remembrance of God), muhasabah (self-reflection), and digital uzlah (seclusion). By integrating classical Sufi wisdom with contemporary psychology and neuroscience, the article highlights the efficacy of these methods in reducing cortisol levels and fostering inner peace. The findings underscore the relevance of spiritual discipline in mitigating the addictive nature of social media, offering a holistic approach to reclaiming self-awareness and tranquility in the digital age.