Nafs al-Ammarah
"Nafs al-Ammarah represents the evil desires and wishes within a person. In Sufism, this concept emphasizes the necessity of disciplining the self."
Spiritual & Deep Meaning
Nafs al-Ammarah refers to the inner unrest and evil desires and wishes of a person in Sufi terminology. This concept reflects the low-level desires inherent in human nature. According to Sufism, Nafs al-Ammarah can lead a person to sins and bad behaviors. Therefore, Sufis aim to discipline the self and transform it into a positive state. Confronting Nafs al-Ammarah is a challenging phase in a person's struggle with themselves; however, this struggle is a critical step for the spiritual development of the individual. In this process, ways to discipline and control the self are explored, and this transformation contributes to the elevation of the individual.
Example / Wisdom Quote
"Imam Al-Ghazali: 'The self is the greatest enemy of man.'"
Spiritual Dictionary
Continue expanding your spiritual vocabulary
Nafs al-Ammarah
Nafs al-Ammarah is the level of the self that represents the lowest and worst desires of a person.
SufismNafs al-Lawwama
Nafs al-Lawwama is the level of the self where the individual criticizes themselves and questions their mistakes.
nafs al-mutma'innaNafs al-Mutma'inna
Nafs al-Mutma'inna is the highest level of the self where a person finds peace with Allah and themselves.