Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Arrange the Nafs (Self in Sufism) from lower to higher self:
(A) The self pleasing to God
(B) The pure self
(C) Inspired self
(D) Serene self
(E) The pleased self

Correct option is B

The correct sequence is C, D, E, A, B.
1. The lower self begins with the Inspired self (C), where the individual starts receiving inspiration.
2. Next comes the Serene self (D), which represents a stage of inner calm and peace.
3. The individual then progresses to the Pleased self (E), where they become pleased with their spiritual state.
4. The next stage is the self pleasing to God (A), where the individual is focused on pleasing the Divine.
5. The highest stage is the Pure self (B), which represents the state of ultimate purity and closeness to God.
​
Information Booster:

Sufism and the Concept of Nafs

1. The Concept of Nafs:
In Sufism, the concept of Nafs refers to the self or soul, which undergoes various stages of purification and transformation in its journey towards spiritual enlightenment. It is through these stages that the individual progresses from the base and ego-driven aspects of the self to a state of purity and spiritual connection with God.
Nafs can be seen as the soul’s inner struggle, with various levels representing different stages of purification and development.

2. The Five Stages of Nafs:
-Inspired Self (C): This is the initial stage where the individual begins to receive divine guidance or inspiration, marking the first step toward spiritual awakening. This stage often involves feeling drawn towards spirituality but still struggling with desires and worldly attachments.
-Serene Self (D): In this stage, the individual finds peace and calm within. There is an inner tranquility that comes with a greater sense of balance. The person starts to overcome negative emotions and desires, experiencing peace in all aspects of life.
-Pleased Self (E): The individual reaches a state where they are pleased with their own spiritual growth and their connection to God. This stage involves acceptance and contentment with the divine will. The person begins to see beauty and grace in all things.
-Self Pleasing to God (A): At this stage, the individual is entirely focused on pleasing God. The person’s actions, thoughts, and intentions are guided by divine will, with the ultimate goal of spiritual fulfillment and closeness to God.
-Pure Self (B): The final stage represents complete purity and unity with the divine. The individual’s soul is free from worldly desires, and they have reached a state of spiritual perfection. This state is marked by total devotion to God and complete surrender to divine will.

3. Spiritual Growth and Nafs:
The purification of the Nafs is a central theme in Sufi practice. Through various practices, such as meditation, prayer, and contemplation, Sufis aim to transcend the lower aspects of the self and move toward these higher stages of spiritual awareness.
The stages of Nafs are akin to the psychological growth or spiritual evolution of the individual, where the soul gradually moves away from selfishness and materialism toward a state of higher consciousness and divine connection.