A Phenomenological Exploration of the Inner Experience of Ethical Obedience to Sharia Among Young Believers

Abstract

This study aimed to phenomenologically explore the inner experience of ethical obedience to Sharia among young devout Muslims in Iran. This qualitative research employed a descriptive phenomenological method. Sixteen devout young individuals residing in Tehran were purposefully selected as participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Colaizzi’s seven-step method was used for data analysis, supported by NVivo software. Analysis of the interviews revealed three main themes: “emotional experience of ethical obedience,” “internal challenges of obedience,” and “stabilizing factors for sustained obedience.” Subthemes included spiritual calm, sacred shame, inner temptations, social pressure, religious upbringing, connection to scripture, and rational understanding of Islamic rulings. Participants described Sharia obedience not merely as a religious duty but as an inner, meaningful, and ethically driven experience. The findings indicate that obedience to Sharia among devout youth is a multilayered and internalized experience shaped by spiritual motivations and ethical consciousness. This highlights the need for supportive, rational, and morally grounded religious education to foster enduring religiosity in younger generations.