Science Investigates Whether Religious Faith Has Healing Powers

In times of deep reflection and faith, we find ourselves during the period of Great Lent. Today, on Good Friday (April 18, 2025), is a day of profound contemplation and mourning that brings us closer to our beliefs and invites us to consider the power of faith. The idea that faith might have healing properties has been embraced by believers for centuries. From traditional religious practices passed down through generations, when discussing disease treatment, science often counters with strong empirical evidence. Some scientists argue that the debate over whether faith is therapeutic may be more philosophical. It’s akin to trying to answer questions that generate even more questions, ultimately leading to the grandest question of all: what does it mean to be human? Yet, this topic of religious faith has been studied by scientists. Studies indicate a clear correlation between levels of spirituality and improvements in mental and physical health. H.G. Koenig, a pioneer in this field, explores extensively in his book ‘Handbook of Religion and Health’ (2012) how religious practice and faith are often associated with better health outcomes, particularly reduced anxiety and depression. People who feel connected to a higher purpose are better equipped to handle stress and depression, showing improved health and reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. Kenneth Pargament, in ‘The Psychology of Religion and Coping’ (1997), highlights that faith can serve as a significant coping mechanism. The mechanisms activated through spirituality help transform anguish into resilience. Scientists believe part of faith’s therapeutic power lies in psychological mechanisms offering meaning, hope, and a sense of protection, which can trigger physiological responses like endorphin release and cortisol reduction. This, in turn, may slow inflammation and improve the immune system according to recent studies. Comparative analyses published in Psychosomatic Medicine present a complex picture; while some show positive correlations between religious participation and physical healing, others suggest these relationships are influenced by factors like social support and personal faith interpretation. Despite evidence, scientists remain cautious. While there is a clear positive correlation, the exact mechanism of faith and spirituality remains unclear, requiring further measurable data. Ultimately, science and faith offer different benefits—science provides measurable methods and reproducible results, while faith offers hope and psychological relief. Finding balance between scientific thought and spiritual exploration is key.