How to Gradually Train the Nafs

بِسۡمِ ٱللهِ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

Imam Ahmad ibn Ahmad az-Zarruq (q.s.) wrote, in Qawa’id at-Taswawwuf, “Training the nafs by doing and leaving things in a gradual manner is the most efficient way of achieving the desired disciplining.  This is why it is said that leaving wrong actions is easier than seeking repentance, and one who leaves a prohibited desire seven times in such a manner that it is resisted every time it reappears, they will never again be tried by it, as Allah is more Generous than to punish a heart on account of a desire that has been left for His sake Alone.”


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