Using the Qur'an to Engage S Functions (Se and Si)

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Engaging the Senses and Reflection on the Past

The Qur'an, with its profound depth and multifaceted nature, offers numerous pathways to activate both Se (Extraverted Sensing) and Si (Introverted Sensing) functions. By focusing on specific themes or verses related to sensory experiences, creation, and perception, one can enhance engagement with the S functions. Here’s how the Qur'an can be used to activate Se and Si functions:

1. Engaging Se (Extraverted Sensing) Through the Qur'an:

Se is about being present and fully attuned to sensory experiences. The Qur'an offers rich descriptions of the world around us, especially those that awaken the senses through vivid imagery, natural phenomena, and experiences of beauty or danger. By reflecting on these verses, one can deepen their Se connection.

Extracting Sensory Verses from the Qur'an:

  • Verses on Creation: Reflecting on Allah’s creation of the world in its entirety — from the heavens to the earth, from mountains to oceans — can sharpen Se. Verses that describe sensory experiences related to nature, such as the changing of the seasons, the beauty of the night sky, the sound of rainfall, or the taste of fruit, directly stimulate the senses.

    • Example:
      "It is He who created for you from the green tree, fire, and from it you ignite." (Qur'an 36:80)
      "And He it is Who sends down the rain from the sky in due measure, and We give it as a life-giving water for the earth." (Qur'an 43:11)

  • Verses on Paradise and Hell: Descriptions of Paradise (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam) contain vivid sensory imagery, invoking a strong connection to the Se function by describing sensory delights or torments.

    • Paradise:
      "Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds – they will have gardens beneath which rivers flow, where they will abide eternally, and Allah will purify them from their sins." (Qur'an 3:198)
      "In them are fruits, date-palms, and pomegranates." (Qur'an 55:68)
      These verses emphasize beautiful sights, delightful tastes, and a feeling of comfort and peace.

    • Hell:
      "Indeed, the criminals will be in the punishment of Hell, abiding eternally. It will not be alleviated for them, and they will be in despair." (Qur'an 43:74)
      "They will be given to drink scalding water, so that it cuts up their intestines." (Qur'an 47:15)
      The intense imagery of suffering in Hell brings a heightened sensory awareness of pain and anguish.

  • Reflecting on the Beauty of Nature: The Qur'an invites readers to reflect on the natural world as a sign of Allah’s power. Engaging with nature’s beauty and intricacy can bring one into full awareness of their sensory experiences.

    • Example:
      "Do you not see that Allah sends down water from the sky, and We produce thereby fruits of various colors?" (Qur'an 35:27)
      The sensory appeal of the earth's colors, tastes, and fragrances draws the reader’s attention to the present moment.

2. Engaging Si (Introverted Sensing) Through the Qur'an:

Si is concerned with recalling personal experiences, focusing on the past, and drawing on stored sensory information. The Qur'an also invites us to reflect on past events, history, and previous communities, which are deeply relevant for Si types who are more attuned to the familiar and the past.

Extracting Historical and Sensory Verses from the Qur'an:

  • Verses on Prophets and Their Stories: Reflecting on the stories of the Prophets and their communities can evoke personal and emotional connections to past events, making it an excellent means of activating Si. These stories often describe experiences that are sensory-rich, from their trials and tribulations to the moments of divine intervention.

    • Example:
      "We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the balance, that the people may stand forth in justice..." (Qur'an 57:25)
      This verse highlights the historical nature of divine messages and the sensory-rich moments of revelation.

  • Reflecting on the Qur’an’s Own Preservation: The Qur'an itself serves as a guide for recalling past wisdom and guidance, both for individuals and communities. Regular recitation and reflection on these verses can help activate Si, allowing individuals to connect with sacred wisdom and tradition.

    • Example:
      "Indeed, it is We who have sent down the Qur'an, and indeed, We will be its guardian." (Qur'an 15:9)
      The sense of continuity and preservation across time strengthens the connection to the past.

  • The Story of Adam and the Garden: This narrative provides a sensory context that connects to the origin of human beings, focusing on sensory experiences in the Garden of Eden (Jannah). Reflecting on the past state of human beings and the sensory richness of Paradise offers a deep connection to personal sensory recall and emotional reflection.

    • Example:
      "And We said, ‘O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Paradise and eat from wherever you wish.’" (Qur'an 2:35)
      The sense of peace, food, and comfort in this description resonates deeply with sensory experiences and connects to personal memories of comfort and tranquility.

Engaging with the Qur’an for S Functions:

  • Visualizing and Immersing in Sensory Details: As you read or recite verses, try to vividly picture the scenes and immerse yourself in the sensory experiences described. This practice heightens Se by making you more aware of the present moment, or engages Si when you reflect on the sensory experiences described from past memories.

  • Taddabur (Contemplation): When reflecting (taddabur) on the Qur’an, consider the sensory imagery in relation to your own life. How can the beauty of the world, the comforts of Paradise, or the sensory dangers of Hell relate to your personal experiences? This process activates Si, as it helps draw connections between external sensory experiences and internal emotional responses. Similarly, the process of trying to absorb the Qur’an deeply and feel the wisdom within activates Se.

  • Dhikr (Remembrance): The practice of dhikr, or repeating Allah's names and attributes, can also activate S functions by connecting with sensory experiences of the divine. For example, reciting the names of Allah that describe His sensory qualities — such as Al-Rahman (The Beneficent) or Al-Basir (The All-Seeing) — brings one's attention to sensory experiences of mercy and vision, enriching both Se and Si.

Conclusion:

The Qur’an is an immense resource for engaging both Se and Si. By focusing on sensory-rich verses and engaging with the natural world, we can activate Se, living in the present moment with heightened awareness of beauty, danger, and blessings. Simultaneously, by contemplating the past and reflecting on the wisdom contained in the Qur’an, we can stimulate Si, drawing connections to our own life and traditions. Through these practices, the Qur'an becomes not just a spiritual guide but also a tool for activating and balancing S functions in the individual.

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