Science of Nafs with respect to Qur’an’s teachings

At times, it feels like there is no one around; neither close nor distant, who truly comprehends you, who can even catch a glimpse of the emotions reflected in your eyes. It seems like no one can grasp the depth of your suffering. Life often unfolds under the weight of pain, suffering, and depression. Yes, depression, it’s a reality that many are facing today, with an increasing rate. What’s the cause? A sense of powerlessness. Your inner voice whispers that everyone has let you down, that no one is truly hearing you, that your words fall on deaf ears. This inner voice, which we often refer to as Nafs, which echoes the feelings of isolation and betrayal.

Nafs refers to our individual self. In the Qur’an, nafs is further defined as a specific aspect of our being that harbors desires and appetites. This Islamic notion of nafs emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of our inner self. Islamic psychology, or the study of nafs, delves into the philosophical exploration of the mind and psyche through an Islamic lens.

The Qur’an categorizes the nafs, or self, into three distinct states: first one is commanding self which is called nafs al-ammara, second is nafs al-lawwama that is self-accusing, and the last state is nafs al-mutmainna which is the peaceful self. It illustrates how these states influence our psyche, guiding our actions and exerting control over us.

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, experienced a profound state of depression at the onset of his prophethood, particularly when the revelations “Wahi” ceased. In that moment of despair, he found himself in a dark place, contemplating throwing himself off a cliff, feeling abandoned by his Lord. The taunts and mockery from those around him, especially from his own family, only deepened his sorrow and when someone to whom you cherish most turn away for no apparent reason, it can lead you into a deep valley of depression. Yet, he maintained a remarkable level of self-control.

So, what changed for the Messenger of Allah? It was the revelation of Surah Duha. Through this Surah, he realized that his Lord had never truly abandoned him. In fact, He had been with him even before his birth, so how could He leave him now? The uplifting verses of this Surah reignited hope within him, restoring his courage and strength.

Now, let’s reflect on our own lives. If we find ourselves in a situation where hope seems scarce, we must ask ourselves: what is the one hope we are holding onto?From the very start, I sense that if this moment isn’t working in my favor, it will eventually pass, and soon enough, things will turn in my favor. When Allah offers His protection, I find that I don’t require anyone else’s support, whether they are close by or far away. My love for my Lord is profound; He is always near to me.