A Systematic Review of EEG Studies on the Neural Effects of Quran Listening

Objective: This systematic review aims to explore the effects of listening to the Quran on the electrophysiological aspects of the human brain, particularly focusing on how this auditory experience influences cognitive function, emotional well-being, and mental health. Method : We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "Quran" and "EEG." Studies included in this review were observational or clinical trials that investigated the effects of Quran listening on brain activity using EEG. Eligibility criteria were assessed according to predefined standards, with a focus on studies published in English. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was employed to evaluate the quality of the selected articles, and data extraction followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: A total of 236 studies were evaluated, leading to the inclusion of 22 eligible studies in this review. Findings indicate that listening to Quranic verses is associated with increased alpha and theta power, which correlates with relaxation and improved emotional states in participants, including non-Muslims. The review identified significant variations in study designs, methodologies, and quality, with many studies displaying a high risk of bias. Conclusion: Listening to Quranic verses demonstrates potential therapeutic effects by activating brain regions associated with relaxation and emotional regulation. Despite promising findings, the current body of research is limited, particularly regarding nonlinear EEG dynamics and comprehensive study designs. Further neuroimaging and clinical investigations are warranted to validate these results and explore the therapeutic applications of Quranic listening in diverse contexts, such as pain management, psychological health, and rehabilitation.