Zahir
"Zahir refers to the outward appearance or superficial meaning of something."
Spiritual & Deep Meaning
Zahir relates to the superficiality and visual aspect of an event in Sufism. This concept signifies the outward form and physicality of something. Zahir does not merely express physical and external states; it also symbolizes the neglect of the spiritual and inner dimensions of something. In Sufism, to reach true depth, it is important to go beyond the zahir and understand the inner dimensions. The zahir period can cause an individual's spiritual development to stagnate if they become fixated on outward appearances. Therefore, individuals need to learn to transcend the zahir for their self-discovery and deepening.
Example / Wisdom Quote
"Hz. Ali (r.a) said, 'What is apparent conceals what is hidden.'"
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.