The Foundations of Islamic Psychology

The integration of Islamic teachings into mental health care is not only beneficial but necessary for many Muslims seeking healing.

As a Muslim mental health professional, I have witnessed firsthand the profound connection between faith and psychological well-being. The integration of Islamic teachings into mental health care is not only beneficial but necessary for many Muslims seeking healing. Islamic psychology, which is rooted in the Qur’an, and the works of classical Islamic scholars and Ahlulbayt (p), offers a holistic approach to understanding the human psyche, addressing the mind, soul, and behavior in harmony.

Understanding the Human Self: Nafs, Qalb, and Aql

Islamic psychology emphasizes a triadic model of human nature, consisting of the nafs (نَفْس) (self/soul), qalb (قَلْب) (heart), and aql (عَقْل) (intellect). Each plays a crucial role in a person’s emotional, cognitive, and spiritual well-being.

1. The Nafs (نَفْس) (Self/Soul) and Its Development

The concept of nafs in Islamic tradition aligns closely with modern psychological theories of personality and self-regulation. The Qur’an describes three primary states of the nafs:

• Nafs al-Ammarah (النَّفْسُ ٱلْأَمَّارَة) (The Commanding Self): This state is driven by desires and impulses, often leading one toward negativity and sin. It can be likened to the id in Freudian theory—an unregulated source of desires (Freud, 1923).

• Nafs al-Lawwama (النَّفْسُ ٱللَّوَّامَة) (The Self-Reproaching Self): This is the conscience, the part of the self that recognizes right from wrong and experiences guilt when moral values are compromised. It is in a state of inner struggle, seeking self-improvement.