GAJIE; Global Journal of Islamic Education
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): Global Journal of Islamic Education (GAJIE)

Spiritual Burnout of Students: Diagnosis and Therapy in the Tradition of Islamic Boarding Schools

Fella Andari (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim)
Nindya Faza (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim)
Havin Zarkasih (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim)
Muhammad Amiruddin (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 May 2026

Abstract

Spiritual burnout among Islamic boarding school (pesantren) students has emerged as a significant issue amid the intensive demands of religious observances, academic responsibilities, and the disciplined lifestyle of pesantren education. This study aims to examine the phenomenon of spiritual burnout among santri, develop an integrative diagnostic framework that combines modern psychological perspectives with the Salaf pesantren tradition, and formulate contextual therapeutic strategies for its recovery. Employing a qualitative approach through library research, this study draws upon scholarly books, journal articles, and relevant literature on burnout, mental health, Sufism, and Islamic boarding school education. The collected data were analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method within an integrative conceptual framework. The findings reveal that spiritual burnout is characterized by diminished enthusiasm for worship, reduced spiritual concentration (khushu’), loss of existential meaning, declining learning motivation, and a tendency toward social withdrawal. Accurate diagnosis requires the integration of psychological indicators, such as emotional exhaustion and motivational decline, with spiritual indicators, including weakened hudhur al-qalb (presence of heart) and inconsistency in devotional practices. Effective therapeutic interventions include Sufi-based spiritual exercises, riyadhah, tazkiyat al-nafs, communal support within the pesantren environment, guidance from religious mentors, and selected modern psychological techniques. This study concludes that a holistic approach integrating psychology and the Pesantren tradition offers a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and addressing spiritual burnout while fostering the mental and spiritual well-being of santri.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

gajie

Publisher

Subject

Religion Education Social Sciences

Description

The International journal accepts empirical and conceptual research articles in the field of Islamic education. In addition to general themes, GAJIE particularly welcomes studies exploring Islamic education in coastal and community-based contexts as a distinctive area reflecting local wisdom and ...