Spiritual Diary: Integrating Sufi Practices into a Contemporary Cultural Context

The article provides an analysis of diary discourse, focusing on the contrast between the narcissistic orientation of contemporary online diaries and the dialogic, reflective nature of Sufi spiritual diaries, written in the form of the letter to spiritual mentor according to Sufi tradition. Modern online diaries, characterized by self-exposure, often mirror digital narcissism, where the expression of thoughts and emotions may prioritize self-presentation over inner transformation. In contrast, Sufi spiritual diaries, written as letters to spiritual mentors, represent a means of deep self-reflection and psychocorrection, where the diarist seeks not only to express personal experiences but also to achieve a transformative dialogue with the metaphysical Other. The study examines the therapeutic effects of this diary practice, highlighting its potential to help individuals restore inner balance, overcome isolation, and reduce anxiety. The article explores such concepts as autocommunication, extimacy, and the communicative turn, analyzes how these theories contribute to understanding personal growth within this diary genre. Through citing of diary excerpts written in the Sufi communicative paradigm, the study shows how these texts foster a unique type of dialogic exchange aimed at personal and spiritual growth. The findings underscore that spiritual diaries offer an opportunity for profound self-therapy, allowing individuals to engage in a metaphysical dialogue that supports personal transformation and emotional resilience. This research underlines the value of spiritual diaries not only as psychotherapeutic tools but also as meaningful literary forms that encourage introspection and connect individuals to broader cultural and spiritual frameworks.

existential experiences, narrative psychology, self-therapy, reflexion, metaphysical dialogue, Diary discourse, communication, the other, Habermas, digital narcissism