‘Navigating the Soul: Unveiling the Depths of Islamic Psychology and its Pathways to Well-being’
Authors: Hossain Ujjal 
Published: October 2024

In Islam, the concept of the soul is both profound and central to the faith. The soul, known in Arabic as “nafs” or “ruh,” is considered the essence of human life and consciousness. It is created by Allah and is what gives life to the body. The soul is believed to be a divine creation, pure and spiritual. It is eternal and distinct from the physical body, which is temporary. The soul’s primary purpose is to worship Allah and live in accordance with His guidance. In Islamic teachings, the soul undergoes a journey from this life to the afterlife. After death, the soul experiences a state of waiting known as “Barzakh,” where it remains until the Day of Judgment. On that day, souls are resurrected and judged by Allah. Based on their deeds, they are either rewarded with eternal paradise (Jannah) or punished in hell (Jahannam). Islam emphasizes the importance of purifying the soul through good deeds, repentance, and sincere worship. The condition of the soul reflects one’s faith and relationship with Allah. The concepts of inner peace, sincerity, and moral integrity are crucial for the soul’s well-being. The Qur’an and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad-pbuh) provide detailed descriptions of the soul’s nature and its journey. For instance, the Qur’an mentions that “It is Allah Who calls back the souls of people upon their death as well as the souls of the living during their sleep. Then He keeps those for whom He has ordained death, and releases the others until their appointed time. Surely in this are signs for people who reflect.”[1] Allah also describes the soul as something that no one fully comprehends except Him. The Qur’an mentions in this regard that, “They ask you O Prophet about the spirit. Say, “Its nature is known only to my Lord, and you ˹O humanity˺ have been given but little knowledge.”[2] Overall, the soul in Islam is seen as the core of human identity and spiritual essence, with its fate closely tied to one’s faith and actions in this life. Navigating the soul in Islamic psychology involves understanding the nature of the soul (nafs) and how it influences mental and spiritual well-being. Islamic psychology integrates spiritual, ethical, and psychological principles based on Islamic teachings to address the human experience. This article explores the intricate relationship between Islamic psychology and well-being, highlighting its unique approaches to understanding the human psyche. Drawing from classical Islamic texts and contemporary psychological frameworks, it delves into concepts such as the soul (nafs), spiritual well-being, and the role of faith in mental health. The paper examines various pathways that Islamic psychology offers for achieving holistic well-being, emphasizing practices such as prayer, mindfulness, and community support. Through a qualitative analysis of literature and interviews with practitioners, the study reveals how these elements contribute to psychological resilience and personal fulfilment. Ultimately, this research underscores the significance of integrating Islamic principles into psychological practices, fostering a deeper understanding of mental health that resonates with Muslim communities and beyond.