Islamic Teachings Promote Tarbiyah

TEHRAN (IQNA) – Islam’s teachings lay emphasis on the Tarbiyah of the soul, which means rectifying and purifying the character.

It is through Tarbiyah of the Nafs (self) and purification of the soul that one can reach perfection and everlasting salvation.

The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (AS), said: Even if we had no hope of reaching paradise, did not fear going to hell, and had no belief in rewards and punishments (for our actions), we should still seek ethical virtues because they show humans the path of victory and salvation.

Moreover, one needs to avoid getting preoccupied in materialistic issues. One may even need to go through some austerity and abstinence on the path of Tarbiyah of the soul.

Imam Ali (AS) said: “Keep your eyes awake at night, make your bellies lean, use your feet, spend your money, take your bodies and spend them over yourselves, and do not be niggardly about them…” (Sermon 183 of Nahj al-Balagha)