Identifying Epistemic Elements Influencing Moral Reconstruction in the Experience of Repentance: A Content Analysis Approach

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify the epistemic elements influencing moral reconstruction in the experience of repentance using a content analysis approach. This research employed a qualitative method with a conventional content analysis approach. Twenty-four adult participants from Tehran, all of whom had undergone profound and reflective experiences of repentance, were purposefully selected. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using NVivo software. Sampling continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The data were categorized into three main themes: (1) Epistemic awakening at the point of repentance, including components such as existential crisis awareness, moral self-reflection, and reevaluation of values; (2) Moral identity reconstruction, encompassing constructive remorse, reconciliation with the past, and the formation of a new moral narrative; and (3) Epistemic engagement with ethical resources, involving the use of religious texts, ethical dialogues, and encounters with moral role models. These themes highlight the central role of reflective and cognitive elements in the moral transformation process following repentance. Repentance is not merely an emotional return, but rather a rational, epistemic, and spiritual process through which individuals reconstruct their moral identity by reflecting on ethical values, interacting with religious resources, and cognitively reconfiguring their sense of self. The findings offer valuable insights for the development of faith-based moral rehabilitation and spiritual counseling interventions.