Chapter 5: Nafs and Qalb in Islam

Chapter 5: Nafs and Qalb from Islamic Perspective

• This chapter explores the concept of Nafs (soul) from an Islamic perspective.
• Nafs is discussed in relation to its meaning, characteristics, ways to control it, and its various degrees.
• The Quran encourages study of Nafs, citing passages like Al-Rūm, Al-Dhāriyāt, Fussilat, and Al-Kahfi.

Meaning of Al-Nafs According to the Quran

• The Quran describes Nafs in various ways, including as a created entity, a spirit (ruh), inner strength, individual self, and a person (Insan).
• Relevant Quranic verses are cited for each interpretation.

Characteristics of Al-Nafs

• Nafs is inclined towards ownership/power (Ali 'Imran 3:14).
• It can be hasty (Al-Anbiya', Al-Isra', Al-Fajr).
• Nafs is prone to contention (Al-Nahl, Al-Kahfi).
• It can be inclined towards enmity (Toha).
• Nafs is a social creature (Al-Hujurat).
• It is inclined towards religion and worship (Al-Rum).

Ways to Control/Guide Al-Nafs

• Purify and educate it to face tribulations (Ali 'Imran 3:186).
• Place it in the appropriate position; avoid excessive praise or disdain (Al-Najm, Ali Imran).
• Train it to achieve noble qualities (Akhlaq) (Ali Imran).
• Educate it to obey Allah, using encouragement (targhib) and warnings (tarhib) (mentioning the power of Allah).
• Connect it with its Creator through remembrance (zikrullah) and practices like tasbih, tahmid, and takbir (Al-A'raf).

Degrees of Al-Nafs

• Al-Nafs al-Malhamah: This nafs has the capability to hear, see, imagine, think, and remember. (Al-Shams: 7-8)
• Al-Nafs al-Ammarah: Injustice can cause it to be inclined towards evil. (Yusuf, 12:53)
• Al-Nafs al-Lawwamah: A soul that regrets its actions; it yearns to do good and leave evil (Al-Qiyamah, 201). Al-Shawkani(1383): describes it in detail.
• Al-Nafs al-Zakiyyah: A purified soul detached from false beliefs, evil actions, and foul words (Al-Shams: 9)
• Al-Nafs al-Mutmainnah: A soul free from impurities with confidence and calm, believing in Allah, content with Allah's will. (Al-Fajr: 27-30) Qurtubi, Ibn'Abbas, Mujahid give different perspectives

Characteristics of Al-Nafs al-Mutmainnah

• Radiah: pleased with Allah's bounties
• Mardiah: able to attain Allah's pleasure
• Salih: a righteous servant
• Jannah: a member of Paradise