By : Mrs. Wan Azurani binti Wan Ahmad _^K.B.;P.A.

Tazkiyah comes from the Arabic word ‘zakaa’ which means pure or clean. An-Nafs means the soul. Therefore, Tazkiyah an-Nafs refers to the purification of the soul.

What is the relationship between Tazkiyah an-Nafs and life?
The concept of Tazkiyah an-Nafs is one introduced by Imam Al-Ghazali. It is more of a counseling concept through an Islamic perspective that calls people towards healing and nourishing the heart through the application of positive elements. According to Imam Al-Ghazali, the concept of 'humanity' is studied from a spiritual standpoint, which consists of the heart (al-qalb), soul (roh), self (nafs), and intellect (aql).

How is the implementation of Tazkiyah an-Nafs in daily life?
What comes out of us, whether in words or actions, is a reflection of our abstract soul. ‘The outer is a reflection of the inner.’ It is a diligent effort to purify oneself from negative and undesirable traits (mazmumah) that hinder the cultivation of noble character (mahmudah). Any conflict that arises is often due to the ego being dominated by these negative traits. When the heart (al-Qalb) is purified from these bad traits to noble ones, the resolution of problems can be carried out effectively.

What is the relationship of this concept in counseling sessions with clients?
Counseling from an Islamic perspective is global, not just for Muslims. It aligns with the original purpose of counseling, which is to promote harmony within the client. Spiritual elements are very close to the soul or spirituality of a person. The function of counseling is to prevent, expand, heal, resolve crises, and negotiate, and in Islamic counseling, with the concept of Tazkiyah an-Nafs, it involves purifying the soul.

An-Nafs in the concept of Tazkiyah an-Nafs has 7 stages:
1. Ammarah (A heart that is tempted by desires and Satan. Always inclined towards evil and sin.)
2. Lawwamah (Frequently criticizes oneself when committing evil. Seeks forgiveness when committing sin.)
3. Mulhamah (Always grateful, humble, patient, and content.)
4. Mutmainnah (A soul that is clean but not yet clear.)
5. Rodhiyah (The soul of saints, ascetic, and cautious.)
6. Mardziyyah (A higher level where one is always content with Allah's decree.)
7. Kamilah (The level of the Prophets and Messengers.)

How does the process of Tazkiyah An-Nafs/Purification of the soul help in solving problems?
The process of Tazkiyah involves:
1. Takhalli – Removing bad traits and replacing them with good ones.
2. Tahalli – Adopting and familiarizing oneself with good traits.
3. Tajalli – The divine light or radiance (Nur/Rabbaniyyah).
These processes need to be applied in counseling sessions with clients (through exploration, self-reflection, and finding solutions).

What is the conclusion?
The spiritual aspect of the helping process is a very important element. Human nature seeks goodness. By emphasizing the spiritual concept, not only can help be given in this worldly life, but also in the hereafter. The process of change that occurs is not merely contemporary but is deeper and lasting.

Date of Input: 29/11/2024 | Updated: 29/11/2024 | ayna