We recently hosted Dr Rania Awaad, who teaches on our Diploma in Islamic Psychology, for an event which Friends and Patrons were exclusively invited to. Our third year Islamic Studies BA student A’iyshah has summarised some key learnings from her talk for the Alms Insider.
Dr Rania highlighted a remarkable aspect of Islamic history, demonstrating how Muslims became renowned for their ‘humanistic’ approach to medicine. One particularly inspiring element of her talk was the discussion of psychiatric aftercare in hospitals known as ‘bīmāristāns’ or ‘dār al-shifā,’ which originated in 7th-century Baghdad. Patients were treated as individuals with emotions, concerns, and anxieties about reintegration into society, rather than as mere cases.
The community played a crucial role in supporting the healing process, with endowments maintaining these medical facilities. Upon discharge, patients were provided with three gold dinars: two for basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, and one for investment in a business. This financial support eased fears of instability, enabling individuals to regain their self-sufficiency and status within society. More importantly, these patients were not labelled as ‘crazy,’ but rather seen as those afflicted or tested by God, fostering an environment of compassion and dignity in their recovery.
Dr Rania stressed that these practices reflect the prophetic ethos of true service (khidma), community, and humanity, values we can all strive to revive, regardless of faith.
A’iyshah Rana – BA Islamic Studies, Class of 2025
Exclusive snaps from the evening! ⤵️
