Quran and Hadith Studies

Quran and Hadith Studies

Explaining Theistic Dimensions of Infāq in the Quran through Psychosocial Mechanisms: A Critique of Social Exchange Theory

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Nematullah Firoozi 1
Reyhaneh Ghavipangeh 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Theology and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Theology, Imam Reza International University, Mashhad, Iran
2 MA. Student, Department of Theology and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Theology, Imam Reza International University, Mashhad, Iran
10.22067/jquran.2026.97459.1938
Abstract
Infāq (spending money), as a fundamental moral and social act in the holy Quran, not only has tangible external effects but also promises lasting peace. This article aims to explain the psychosocial mechanisms of Infāq on subjective well-being and to critique Social Exchange Theory. The main problem is the inadequacy of rational-exchange frameworks to explain theistic principles of Infāq, which are accompanied by the intention of “ibtiqāʾ wajhillāh” (seeking the pleasure of God) and the promise of peace. The article method consists of qualitative content analysis of the verses, a critique of Social Exchange Theory, and integrating it with positive psychology and neuroscience. According to the results, Quranic Infāq is an intelligent and existential mechanism that is beyond mere financial transfer and enhances well-being through four pathways: 1) Transcendent meaning-making: transformation of the act into worship. 2) Emotional regulation: the reduction of negative emotions and activation of the brain’s reward system. 3) Social capital reinforcement: the generation of trust and solidarity. 4) Personality development and self-purification. The innovation of this study lies in proposing an integrative analytical framework of “Divine-Social Exchange” that overcomes the limitations of classical exchange theory and integrates material, social, psychological and transcendent dimensions of Infāq. The study reveals that the Quranic promise of tranquility is consistent with findings in psychology and neuroscience and can serve as a basis for designing psychotherapeutic interventions and social policymaking.
Keywords
Holy Quran
Infāq
Subjective well-being
Positive psychology
Social Exchange Theory
Subjects
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Quran and Hadith Studies
Volume 58, Issue 1 - Serial Number 116
Spring & summer 2026
August 2026
Pages 209-238

  • Receive Date 17 January 2026
  • Revise Date 10 April 2026
  • Accept Date 02 June 2026