The Tricks of the Soul (Jihad Nafs in Islam) , Translation of Four Books by Al Muhâsibi , Al Ghazâli , As-Sulami and Ibn 'Ata'Allah

The believer will find, throughout his life and his spiritual journey towards God, obstacles, trials and enemies. Among these enemies are: the devil ( shaytân ) , life here below ( Dunyä ) , profane passion ( hawa ) and the carnal soul ( Nafs ) , except that the latter is as tough as the first three enemies united; it is even their gateway, as long as it has not calmed down ( mutma'inna ) and purified.

Muslim scholars have always written down the science of naf education, both in its theoretical aspect (the doctrine) and in its practical aspect (the method) . For this purpose, they tracked down the slightest tricks or ego traps ( nafsi ) , the slightest worldly, passionate or satanic illusions, first for themselves, then for the benefit of their disciples and for all believers. They have thus patiently cleared the inextricable jungle of innumerable dangers which await human beings in their quest for God.

Knowing one's own soul ( nafs ) is therefore a considerable asset for those who want to work on themselves in order to advance morally and spiritually. Knowing your nafs allows you to avoid its pitfalls and thwart its tricks. In the Muslim tradition this fight against oneself is designated by: Jihâd an-Naf or the great Jihâd .

This book is composed of several writings from four illustrious religious scholars recognized for their great mastery in the field of spiritual education and purification of heart and soul.

Despite everything, for the believer, these writings could not be exhaustive, because the treacheries of the devil and the complicity of the nafs only cease with death.