Background: Homelessness in Malaysia is increasingly recognized as an existential crisis that transcends material deprivation, yet current rehabilitation models often overlook the spiritual dimensions of recovery. Objective: This study investigates the application of spiritual care and Tazkiyah al-Nafs (purification of the soul) as a psychospiritual intervention to enhance the internal resilience of the homeless. Methodology: Utilizing a phenomenological qualitative design, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 clients at the Ar-Riqab Shelter Home in Malaysia. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to explore the lived experiences of participants across the stages of takhalli (cleansing), tahalli (adorning), and tajalli (divine self-disclosure). Findings: The results reveal that the tazkiyah al-nafs framework functions as an integrated mechanism for regulating cognitive and emotional processes. Participants reported that spiritual cleansing of the soul from bad disposition facilitated the shedding of street identities and trauma-related shame, while ritualized worship (solat and dhikr) provided ontological security and affect regulation. Furthermore, the development of trustful hope in God (husnu al-zann) and the support of a spiritual family within the institution emerged as critical mediators for rebuilding self-identity and future-orientation. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that integrating faith-based psychospiritual frameworks into social work can bridge the gap between temporary sheltering and sustainable rehabilitation. Implications: These findings suggest that policymakers should adopt a ‘Soul First’ approach in national homeless management policies to address the root causes of existential despair and foster long-term resilience among marginalized populations.
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