Teosofia: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Mysticism
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2025)

Spiritual Equilibrium: Syaikh Abdurrauf Singkel’s Concept of Tazkiyat al-Nafs

Ihsan, Nur Hadi (Unknown)
Muhammad, Allan (Unknown)
Kaplan, Muhammed Nur (Unknown)
Zarkasyi, Arif Afandi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Jun 2025

Abstract

The pursuit of worldly abundance and immersion in fleeting pleasures has quietly shaped the spirit of contemporary society, leading to a subtle yet profound imbalance within the human soul. By placing transitory possessions and temporal delights at the center of life's purpose, these tendencies have contributed to a deep spiritual estrangement. This study examines Syaikh Abdurrauf Singkel's concept of Tazkiyat al-nafs (soul purification) as a comprehensive spiritual framework for restoring harmony between the material and the spiritual. Drawing upon Singkel's Sufi teachings, this research explores how his methodology offers a pathway toward Insān kāmil (the perfect human)—a being who integrates worldly responsibilities with elevated spiritual consciousness. Employing a qualitative-descriptive approach through library research, the study analyzes Singkel's seminal works, including Tanbīh al-Mashyī, Mir'at al-Ṭullāb, Daqāiq al-Ḥurūf, and 'Umdat al-Muhtājīn. The findings reveal how classical Islamic spiritual disciplines—dhikr (remembrance of God), muhāsaba (self-reflection), murāqaba (divine vigilance), and tawakkal (trust in God)—serve as an enduring guide to addressing the restlessness born of excessive worldly attachment and the allure of transient joys, offering a balanced and timeless path toward inner peace in the modern age. Contribution: This study reintroduces Syaikh Abdurrauf Singkel’s concept of Tazkiyat al-nafs as a spiritual response to the prevailing pursuit of worldly abundance and immersion in fleeting pleasures, offering a practical Sufi framework rooted in Islamic tradition to guide individuals toward Insān kāmil in today’s consumer-oriented society.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

teosofia

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities Social Sciences

Description

This journal provides a scholarly forum for sustained discussion of Islamic Mysticism and covers Humanities studies; Philosophy, Critical Thought, Cultural Studies, Art, Sociology, Anthropology, and Ethics. It presents developments of the related issues through publication of articles as well as ...