Tazkiyat al-Nafs in the Context of Interfaith Dialogue

The concept of dialogue entails a conversation or discussion between two or more individuals or groups about a subject of interest or a problem that requires resolution with the consent of all parties involved in that discussion. Apart from the essential elements for a successful dialogue such as receptiveness, attentiveness, respect for diverse opinions, skillful communication, the dialogue also necessitates good intentions and right manners by which it is to be performed with prolific and lasting results. In this paper, our aim is to discuss the concept of tazkiyat al-nafs (purification of the soul/self) and its impact on an effective dialogue in both, its internal and external connotations of which the second is not other than a reflection of the first, namely, a sort of introfaith dialogue, conducted between positive and negative powers or virtues and vices situated within a self.