Nafs
"Nafs represents the true self of a person; it is central to moral and spiritual development."
Spiritual & Deep Meaning
Nafs expresses a person's inner world, desires, and wishes. In Islamic culture and Sufi teachings, there are levels of nafs. Among these levels are nafs al-ammara, nafs al-lawwama, and nafs al-mutma'inna. According to the Sufi perspective, the training of nafs is essential for the development of the soul. While nafs sometimes guides a person towards goodness, it is often the source of bad desires. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals train their nafs; this is an important part of their spiritual journey.
Example / Wisdom Quote
"The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, 'He who knows his nafs knows his Lord.'"
Spiritual Dictionary
Continue expanding your spiritual vocabulary
Nafs al-Ammara
Nafs al-Ammara is the level of the self that represents the lowest and worst desires of a person.
Qur'anNafs al-Lawwama
Nafs al-Lawwama is the state of the self in which an individual criticizes themselves and questions their mistakes.
Qur'anNafs al-Mutma'inna
Nafs al-Mutma'inna is the highest state of the self in which a person finds peace with Allah and themselves.