Journal of the stylistic of Persian poem and prose
volume Number 19، number In Volume 3، June 2026 ، issue Number 121

Reinterpreting the Master–Disciple Relationship on the Boundary of Fear and Hope (Psychology of Religion)

Mohammad Amin Azizpour , Fatemeh Modarresi (Author in Charge)

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Focusing on classical mystical texts, this study examines the relationship between attachment theory in the psychology of religion and the master–disciple (murīd–murād) model in ʿAṭṭār of Nishapur’s Tadhkirat al-Awliyāʾ. The growing scholarly interest in applying psychological theories to the analysis of religious and mystical experiences provides the context for this research. Accordingly, the main aim is to reread the emotional and pedagogical relationship between disciple and master within the framework of khawf (fear) and rajāʾ (hope), and to interpret it through attachment theory.

METHODOLOGY: The research employs a descriptive–analytical approach, using content analysis of selected narratives from Tadhkirat al-Awliyāʾ.

FINDINGS: The findings indicate that in ʿAṭṭār’s narratives, the master often functions as a “secure base” for the disciple. Experiences of fear and hope serve as mechanisms for emotional regulation, strengthening spiritual trust, and shaping the seeker’s mystical identity.

CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the master–disciple relationship can be understood as a form of spiritual attachment, in which fear of separation and hope for divine proximity jointly guide the process of spiritual growth.

Keyword
Attachment theory , Tadhkirat al- Awliyāʾ , master and disciple , khawf and rajāʾ , psychology of religion , ʿAṭṭār of Nishapur.