The Path of Moderation in Islam…
Since purifying the soul has this level of importance, it is obligatory upon each Muslim who desires good for himself to give great importance to this matter and to struggle against his soul in his life to actualize this praiseworthy goal; in order that he may be successful in his worldly life and his hereafter, and so that he may enjoy true happiness.
The soul has a right upon the Muslim, as the messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) has said:
وان لنفسك عليك حقاً
“Indeed, your soul has a right upon you.”
He has erred who believes that the right of the soul is that one is harsh upon it and deprives it of its rights that Allah has created is with an innate need for. Likewise, he has erred who believes that the right of the soul is that one is negligent and neglectful of its management and leaves it drowning in its lusts, and the likes.
Purification of the soul is totally different from the likes of this. Rather, purification of the soul is by way of the legislative methods, balance, and moderation, such that there is neither negligence nor exaggeration. Instead, it is by clinging to the guidance of the prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his firm methodology.
I will mention, within this concise work, ten importance principles which will assist the Muslim in purifying and strengthening his soul as well as cleansing it from everything which would sully and defile it.
