(Excerpts Only)
The human self (Nafs) resembles a hologram, which can reflect and reproduce ever-changing states and attributes. The range covers the lowest qualities to the highest Divine attributes. The Nafs can behave in the meanest and in contrast the most generous of ways. Fearful or courageous, patient or impulsive, stupid or wise, agitated or peaceful, ignorant or illuminated.
Mind is the faculty of rationality and reasoning. It is the foundation for civilized and cultural reliability and tradition. The limitations of the mind and intellect are the source of it’s power, universal utility and human inter- relationships. Mind is vital to start with until the illuminated heart supercedes.
Ruh (Spirit) is a Divine spark, which energizes and gives life to the self and it’s physical body; it is the ultimate constant reflection point for the Nafs. The actions and experiences of the Nafs are only possible because of the Ruh. Sleep and dreaming is when the Nafs wanders off and the Ruh is present, whilst death is when both depart and the body is cast off back to it’s earthly origin.
Heart and it’s facets of monitoring, reflecting, witnessing and recording are the link between the Nafs and the Ruh. When the heart is clear of defects (hatred, suspicion, lust etc.) then it will reflect to the Nafs the higher guiding source – the Ruh and Divine light. Good intentions and appropriate actions are needed to cleanse the heart, purify it and enable it to reflect the higher truth. It is said that he who knows himself will know his heart. He who knows the lower tendencies of the self will understand the higher attributes of Allah. By being aware of one’s meanness one can visualize Allah’s generosity. Unreliability of the self can lead to recognition of the reliability of Allah. The self is a disappointment whereas Allah is the source of appointment. The self is impatient, Allah is patience. The self is insecure and dependant, Allah is totally secure and independent. The self can be weak and sick, Allah is the source of strength, all powers and healing.<snipped>