Ruh' روح

Concept of Spirit in ISLAM

In Islam, the concept of spirit holds great significance and is deeply intertwined with the faith's core beliefs and practices. The spirit, or "ruh" in Arabic, is central to understanding human existence, the afterlife, and the relationship between the physical and spiritual realms.

Firstly, Islam teaches that every human being has a spirit that is created by Allah (God). This spirit is what distinguishes humans from other creations and gives them a unique identity and consciousness. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, mentions the creation of humans and their spirits in several verses, emphasizing the divine origin and purpose of the human spirit.

One of the fundamental beliefs in Islam is the concept of the soul's journey. Muslims believe that each person's spirit embarks on a journey from the realm of the unseen (Alam al-Ghaib) into the material world (Dunya). This journey begins at birth and continues until death, after which the spirit transitions to the afterlife.

The Quran describes the nature of the human spirit as being inclined towards goodness and righteousness. It is believed that Allah breathes his spirit into every human being, guiding them towards moral conduct and spiritual fulfillment. This concept emphasizes the innate goodness and potential for spiritual growth within each individual.

Islam also teaches the importance of purifying and nourishing the spirit through acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, charity, and remembrance of Allah. These practices are not only seen as means of spiritual development but also as ways to maintain a strong connection with the divine and seek forgiveness for sins.


Another aspect of the spirit in Islam is its connection to the concept of life after death. Muslims believe in the resurrection of the dead and the Day of Judgment, where all souls will be held accountable for their deeds in this world. The state of the spirit in the afterlife is determined by one's faith, actions, and adherence to Islamic teachings.

The Quran mentions different states of the soul in the afterlife, including the blissful life of paradise (Jannah) for the righteous and the punishment of hellfire (Jahannam) for the wicked. These descriptions serve as motivations for believers to lead a righteous life and fulfill their spiritual duties.

In Islamic mysticism, or Sufism, the concept of the spirit takes on a deeper spiritual significance. Sufis focus on purifying the heart and soul to attain a closer connection with Allah and experience spiritual enlightenment. Practices such as meditation, contemplation, and seeking the guidance of spiritual teachers play a crucial role in Sufi spirituality.

Overall, the concept of the spirit in Islam encompasses various dimensions, including its origin, purpose, journey, purification, and ultimate destiny. It underscores the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual aspects of human existence and provides a framework for believers to navigate life's challenges while striving for spiritual growth and closeness to the divine.