Tazkiyah: Purification of the Soul

Islam has three dimensions or levels, which in Arabic are called islam, iman, and ihsan. Islam (submission) refers to having the correct actions, that is, ones that are in accordance with the Quran and Sunna. Iman (faith) refers to having the correct knowledge (aqidah). Ihsan (excellence) refers to having the correct motivations.

Much attention is given to islam and iman and to matters of Shari'a and aqidah. But ihsan is important too. Having the correct motivations means purifying our souls from hypocrisy, caprice, heedlessness, and everything else that keeps us from serving Allah SWT for His sake alone. This purification of the soul is called tazkiyah.

On this page are articles about tazkiyah. I hope that these may help you in your personal jihad against your nafs.

The Writings of Imam Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah

Some excellent articles on tazkiyah have been written by Imam ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah. Ibn al-Qayyim was a student of Imam Ibn Taimiya. You can read a brief biography and some quotes and poetry. Here are some of his writings that are available online in English.

A Refutation of Naturalists

Addressing the Believers

Al-'Uboodiyyah

Allaah is Beautiful and Loves Beauty

Allah Grants Help and Victory to Followers of the True Deen

Awakening

Beneficial and Comprehensive Principles Concerning Afflictions and Trials

Between The Past And The Future

Bitter Consequences of Sin

Captivated, Imprisoned and Fettered

Creation is in Need of Allah

Dead Hearts