An Introduction to the Theology of Health as Applied Theology

In less than a century, interdisciplinary studies at the intersection of religion and health have led to the emergence and expansion of a new field of inquiry known as the “theology of health.” This field, on the one hand, engages with theology and its various branches—including scripture, exegesis, traditions, jurisprudence, philosophy, and history—and, on the other, explores their relationship with the four dimensions of health: physical, mental, social, and spiritual. Within Christian and Jewish contexts, it has received significant attention; yet its presence in Islamic society can also be traced historically. Today, however, it is timely to formulate a renewed framework capable of addressing the questions of contemporary humanity and the pressing needs of the present age. Theology of health may further be understood as a response to secularized societies and critics of religion, demonstrating through empirical evidence that theology contributes to human well-being and plays an indispensable role in both prevention and treatment. Accordingly, it is poised to play a central role in the future discourse of humanity, in which a turn back toward spirituality is anticipated. Drawing upon Islamic teachings, this field can also support health systems by: promoting rigorous research on Qurʾānic teachings and medical traditions, eliminating superstition and purifying so-called “Islamic medicine” from its conflation with folk practices, expanding preventive methods, and developing therapeutic approaches as forms of complementary medicine. This article, therefore, while examining the relationship of the theology of health with both traditional and modern medicine, seeks to elucidate its connection with applied theology.