MEDICINE VS. SPIRITUALITY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PERCEIVED HEALING AND COMFORT AMONG VISITORS AT BABA MASTNATH MATH AND LOCAL HOSPITALS IN ROHTAK

Rajiv Yadav* and Aman

ABSTRACT

Background: Healing is a multidimensional process encompassing physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. In India, spirituality is often interwoven with health-seeking behaviors. This study compares the perceived healing and emotional comfort experienced by visitors to Baba Mastnath Math, a spiritual center, and those visiting local hospitals in Rohtak. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 200 participants (100 from Baba Mastnath Math and 100 from local hospitals). Data collection methods included structured questionnaires using Likert scales, semi-structured interviews, and observational analysis. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed. Results: Visitors to Baba Mastnath Math reported a higher average emotional comfort score (Mean = 4.2) than hospital visitors (Mean = 3.1). The majority of temple visitors described experiencing peace, spiritual relief, and inner calm. In contrast, hospital visitors reported stress, anxiety, and emotional fatigue, despite acknowledging the importance of medical treatment. Interviews revealed a strong influence of faith, belief, and the healing atmosphere of the Math on the emotional state of visitors. Conclusion: While hospitals are essential for physical healing, spiritual places like Baba Mastnath Math offer valuable emotional and psychological relief. Integrating spirituality into modern healthcare settings could lead to more holistic patient care.

Keywords: Spiritual healing, emotional comfort, hospitals, Baba Mastnath Math, healthcare perception, spiritual care, India.