The Relationship between Art and Spiritual Health in Iranian-Islamic Art

The spiritual emptiness in the modern era caused a kind of return to spiritual life and communication between different parts of life. "Spiritual health" was proposed as the fourth dimension of health when other dimensions were not considered sufficient in meeting human needs. "Art" can be regarded as one of the most influential factors in restoring spiritual health. Iranian-Islamic art has always produced artworks about spirituality by showing manifestations of the higher world and an image of heaven. It has provided a necessary part of the spiritual health of society. This study aimed to assess the relationship between art and spiritual health.

This research was carried out in a library manner by referring to studies related to art and spiritual health, and a descriptive-analytical method was used.

The results demonstrated that there has always been a two-way relationship between art and spiritual health in Iranian-Islamic culture. Iranian-Islamic art, including literature, architecture, painting, and music, has played a vital role in the progress of spiritual health. This art has invited people to a different aspect of life and provided a platform for sublimation. It has been one of the most influential factors in the progress of spirituality in society. At the same time, it was influenced by religious teachings and the religious life of the artist. Therefore, the effect of art on spiritual health (as well as the effect of spiritual health on art) is considered the most notable result.

Considering the interrelationship between art and spiritual health, art promotes spiritual health as a basic need of societies. Spiritual health is not only limited to the cognitive dimension of a person. Thus in this context, attention to art, which directly affects motivation and strengthening or weakening wills, is essential. Art inspires and mediates between the world of the senses and sensations by using the power of imagination and stimulating emotions. Therefore, it is not possible to achieve good results in improving spiritual health without using the capacity of works of art.