Fostering a Sense of Purpose in the Lives of Inmates Through Islamic Spiritual Guidance

Authors

  • Muhammad Zulfan Azmi UIN Prof. K. H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Indonesia
  • Ahmad Aslih Lidinillah Al-Azhar University Cairo, Egypt
  • Nur Azizah UIN Prof. K. H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59388/josc.v4i3.992

Keywords:

The Meaning of Life, Prisoners, Spiritual Formation, Spiritual Guidance

Abstract

The lives of inmates in closed institutions often lead to various psychological pressures, such as loss of freedom, social isolation, and a crisis of meaning in life. Under these conditions, a spiritual approach through spiritual guidance activities is seen as playing an important role in helping inmates reflect on themselves and rediscover their purpose in life. This study aims to analyze the implementation of spiritual guidance and its contribution to the formation of inmates’ sense of purpose in life at the Banyumas Class IIA State Prison. This study employs a qualitative method using a case study approach. Data were collected through observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving spiritual advisors, correctional officers, and inmates within the correctional facility. Data analysis utilizes an interactive analysis model comprising data reduction, data presentation, and the drawing of conclusions. The results of the study indicate that spiritual guidance in the prison is conducted through various activities, such as recitations, religious lectures, worship coaching, and spiritual assistance involving correctional officers and religious leaders. These activities have a positive impact on the psychological well-being of inmates, such as increasing religiosity, fostering self-reflection, and inspiring a desire to lead a more meaningful life within the prison setting. Thus, spiritual guidance plays a crucial role in helping inmates rediscover the meaning of life while serving their sentences.

 

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Published

2026-08-26

How to Cite

Azmi, M. Z., Lidinillah, A. A., & Azizah, N. (2026). Fostering a Sense of Purpose in the Lives of Inmates Through Islamic Spiritual Guidance. Journal of Society Counseling, 4(3), 869–882. https://doi.org/10.59388/josc.v4i3.992