Recently, a Muslim lady named Shameenaz (from Mauritius) sent an important question for spiritual guidance to Imam- Jamaat Ul Sahih Al Islam International Hazrat Muhyiuddin Al Khalifatullah Al Mahdi Munir Ahmad Azim (aba). Explaining the circumstances that led her to approaching Hazrat Khalifatullah (aba) with this question, the lady observed that other religious leaders of the various Muslim Jamaats to whom she had sent the question did not provide a spiritually-convincing response to this vital issue. She writes: ‘Imam Sahib, I want to know the three stages of development of the human soul [according to the Holy Quran].’
Responding to the question, Hazrat Imam (aba) Saheb stated:
‘Jazak-Allah Khair for your valuable question and l will reply
to you according to the Holy Quran, Insha-Allah.
You know the Holy Quran has mentioned three stages of
development of the human soul. The first stage is called Nafs-e-Ammarah (the
uncontrollable spirit), when the animal in man is predominant.
The second stage is that of Nafs-e-Lawwamah (the self-accusing
spirit), when man's awakened conscience upbraids him for doing bad deeds and
restrains his passions and appetites. At this stage the human in man gets the
upper hand. It is the beginning of his moral resurrection and therefore has
been cited in evidence of the Final Resurrection. If man has no responsibility,
and if he is not to account for his actions in an after-life; then, why this
pricking of conscience at the doing of an evil deed?
The third and the highest stage of development of the human
soul, however, is that of Nafs-e-Mutma'innah (the soul at
rest). At this stage the human soul becomes practically immune to failure or
faltering and is at peace with its Creator.’
So this is my reply to you- a very short reply, and if you are
not satisfied please ask your questions…’
In reply to me, she said: ‘I am satisfied with your reply. Jazak-Allah Khair, lmam Sahib; Ramadan Kareem.’