A Critical Analysis of the Relationship between Spirituality and Justice Based on Substantivity (Mawḍūʿiyyah) or Instrumentality (Ṭarīqiyyah)

Document Type : The Sociology of Religion, Ethics, and Social Systems in the Quran

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Faculty of Theology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/scs.2026.73089.1448

Abstract

This research, with an analytical and critical approach, examines the relationship between spirituality and justice and attempts to clarify whether spirituality in human life is the ultimate end and goal, or an instrument for the realization of social justice. Furthermore, the present research endeavors to demonstrate that this question is not merely a theoretical discussion, but rather a fundamental concern in contemporary social philosophy and applied ethics. Accordingly, two main perspectives have been analyzed: first, the perspective that considers spirituality as having "substantivity" (Mawḍūʿiyyah) and perceives it as an independent and internal value of the human being; second, the perspective that posits "instrumentality" (Ṭarīqiyyah) for spirituality and views it as paving the way for the realization of justice and social ethics. In complementing these two approaches, the present research emphasizes that each of these attitudes possesses extensive backgrounds in various intellectual traditions, ranging from theology to cultural studies and the sociology of religion. The findings of the research demonstrate that each of these two attitudes alone is incomplete. Individual spirituality without social justice leads to individualism and isolation, and justice without spiritual backing transforms into a rigid and soulless order. This result is consistent with many interdisciplinary studies that emphasize the link between internal values and social structures, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of simultaneous attention to both domains. Consequently, the relationship between spirituality and justice is not in opposition, but rather in a bilateral and complementary bond; in such a way that spirituality provides the moral context for the realization of justice, and justice as well guarantees the social ground for the flourishing of spirituality. This dialectic can be the driving engine of positive and sustainable changes in society; because whenever spirituality finds its way to the level of social action, structural justice also acquires depth and meaning. In truth, from the dialectical relationship of justice and spirituality, social felicity (Saʿādah) will be realized. The present research seeks, by elucidating this interactive relationship, to present a balanced model of the link among spirituality, ethics, and justice that can be inspiring in the cultural and social policy-makings of contemporary societies. It is also hoped that this model can provide a foundation for rethinking educational and pedagogical methods, designing social development programs, and strengthening moral cohesion in today's society.

Keywords

References

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