The concept of soul purification is central to Islamic spirituality. In their respective works, “The Purification of the Soul,” Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali and Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyya delve into the depths of this transformative journey. Both scholars provide profound insights into the methods and challenges of purifying one’s soul, rooted in the Quran and Hadith. This blog aims to explore their teachings, offering guidance on how to achieve inner peace and spiritual growth.
The Role of Intention in Soul Purification
According to Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali and Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyya, one of the principal roles of soul purification has been the role of niyyah or intention. In fact, both assert that a pure intention precedes any act to become accepted in Islam. Indeed, they explain how that inner commitment can transform acts from mundane into acts of worship and bring one closer to God. This emphasis on intention reflects a deeper understanding of spirituality that goes beyond external practices.
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Moving from intention, we explore the importance of self-discipline in the journey of soul purification.
Self-Discipline and its Role in Spiritual Development
Ibn Rajab and Ibn al-Qayyim also emphasize the need to self-discipline in cleaning up the soul. Here, they describe how this process of controlling desires and managing anger and negative conducts are essential steps toward becoming a better person. According to them, self-control is not only about external abstention but also training the mind, emotions, and behaviors. Both scholars use the example of the Prophet Muhammad as a guide toward giving practical advice on self-control in everyday life.
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This discussion on self-discipline leads us to the role of prayer and meditation in soul purification.
The Role of Prayer and Meditation in Soul Purification
For Ibn Rajab and Ibn al-Qayyim, salat and dhikr are basic practices for the purification of the soul. They maintain that these spiritual practices help individuals reconnect with God and thus cultivate self-awareness. Through salat and dhikr, one’s heart and mind are cleaned of impurities. According to both scholars, these practices help in overcoming spiritual barriers and the quality of faith.
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After the discussion of prayer and meditation, we proceed to repentance and forgiveness.
Repentance and Forgiveness: Essential Ingredients for Purification of the Soul
Ibn Rajab and Ibn al-Qayyim consider repentance (tawbah) and forgiveness as part of the process of purification of the soul. They explain that without acknowledging sins and seeking pardon from God, one cannot achieve inner peace. The scholars guide the steps of true repentance: acknowledging one’s errors, remorse, and commitment to amend. Forgiveness, according to them, is not just a request but also the granting of forgiveness to others, which helps create a harmonious soul.
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The next section addresses the importance of patience and gratitude in the journey toward soul purification.
Patience and Gratitude: Essential Qualities for the Purification Journey
Ibn Rajab and Ibn al-Qayyim emphasize patience (sabr) and gratitude (shukr) as being two of the most important qualities in the purification journey. They explain that patience allows people to bear the trials and setbacks while having faith in God’s wisdom. Gratitude, in turn, helps people maintain a positive attitude and feel closer to God. The two scholars use examples from the lives of Prophet Muhammad and his companions to show how these qualities help in spiritual growth and soul purification.
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This brings us to a more general discussion on how a pure soul impacts society.
The Impact of a Pure Soul on Society
A purified soul benefits not only the individual but also has a positive impact on society. Ibn Rajab and Ibn al-Qayyim mention how a spiritually cleansed person can have a positive impact on society through the virtues of benevolence, honesty, and justice. They argue that a pure soul is a role model to others to bring about positive change in society. This discussion points out how personal spiritual growth is linked with societal harmony.
Conclusion
“The Purification of the Soul” by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali and Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyya provides eternal wisdom on how to purify the soul. Their teachings focus on intention, self-control, prayer, repentance, and gratitude in the journey of purification of the soul. By following their guidance, people can achieve inner peace, strengthen their faith, and positively contribute to society. This blog reminds that the path to a purified soul is a continuous and transformative journey.
Read more: What Did Jesus Really Say? By Misha’al ibn Abdullah Al-Kadhi
