The Role of tawba (Repentance) in Social Work with Muslim Clients

Abstract

AbstractFor interventions to succeed in social work, practitioners need to be familiar with clients’ religious worldviews and value systems; by understanding these dimensions in a client’s life, appropriate coping behaviour in the context of their lived experiences can be enhanced. In working with Muslim clients, such intervention requires knowledge and awareness of Islam and of the concepts that Muslims rely on to deal with problems or to bring about change in their lives. These concepts provide a reference and motivation for change to occur and can be integrated into social work to ensure services are culturally sensitive for them. Tawba (repentance) is one such concept that is fundamental in Islam; it is considered a starting point for personal change and a means to achieve a new way of being in relation to others and to God. Tawba is defined religiously and spiritually; as religious doctrine, sin and transgression are emphasised, while spiritually, inner transformation is the focus. This paper examines the concept of tawba and its use in social work to enhance intervention outcomes with Muslim clients.