Ten Principles Concerning Purification of the Soul

Since purifying the soul has its level of importance, it is obligatory upon each Muslim who desires good for himself to give great importance to this matter and to struggle against his soul in his life to actualise this praiseworthy goal; in order that he may be successful in his worldly life and his Hereafter, and so that he may enjoy true happiness.

The soul has a right upon the Muslim, as the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) has said:

                                   “Indeed, your soul has a right upon you.”

He has erred who believes that the right of the soul is that one is harsh upon it and deprives it of its right that Allah has created it with an innate need for. Likewise, he has erred who believes that the right of the soul is that one is negligent and neglectful of its management and leaves it drowning in its lusts, and the likes.

Purification of the soul is totally different from the likes of this. Rather, purification of the soul is by way of the legislative methods,balance,and moderation, such that there is neither negligence not exaggeration, Instead, it is by clinging to the guidance of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his firm methodology.

I will mention, within this concise work, ten important principles which will assist the Muslim in purifying and strengthening his soul as well as cleansing it from everything which would sully and defile it.