The Concept of Nafs and Its Relevance to Personality Theories in Psychology

Abstract

This paper explores the Islamic concept of nafs (self/soul) and its relevance to modern personality theories in psychology. In Islamic thought, the nafs is central to understanding human behavior, motivation, and moral orientation, often described in stages such as nafs al-ammara (the commanding self), nafs al-lawwama (the self-reproaching self), and nafs al-mutma’inna (the tranquil self). These categories offer insights into the dynamic nature of personality development and ethical decision-making. By comparing Islamic perspectives with contemporary personality theories such as Freud’s psychoanalytic model, Jung’s analytical psychology, and trait-based approaches, the paper demonstrates both parallels and unique contributions of Islamic psychology to the understanding of human personality. The study argues that incorporating the concept of nafs enriches psychological discourse by integrating spiritual, moral, and cognitive dimensions, thereby offering a more holistic view of human nature.