The Structure of the Concept of Identity Based on Islamic Resources

The present study aims at discovering the structure of the concept of identity in Islamic resources. Using a qualitative-analytical content analytic method and a semantic method, the equivalent and structural components of identity has been drawn from Islamic resources. Then, the equivalents and components of identity were given to the seminary sciences experts who have psychological or educational expertise to analyze the content validity. After examining 561 concepts drawn from Islamic resources, first 17 and finally 7 concepts, including; temperament, scheme, virtues, faith, obedience, self-knowledge and philosophical identity showed the greatest coordination with identity. Based on theoretical evidences and experts` views, self-knowledge is the most appropriate equivalent for identity and 16 structural components were chosen for it. Based on experts` gradation, 9 components including; beliefs, values, goals, trends, acquired recognition, persistent features, wide-awake feeling and self-worth were introduced as the standard components of the structure of identity. Consequently identity in Islamic resources is the answer to the question as to what one is, which covers its different aspects.