Meaning
The lower self or ego-soul, seat of base appetites, which the seeker must discipline and refine.
Literally: the self; the lower soul; the ego-self
Usage & notes
The self or soul, and especially the carnal lower self (nafs) with its base appetites — the nafs-e-ammara that "commands to evil," to be disciplined into the reproaching and finally the serene self. This must be distinguished from Iqbal's khudi: where the nafs to be subdued is the selfish, appetite-driven ego, khudi is the God-given individuality to be affirmed and strengthened. Iqbal calls for mastering the nafs precisely so that the true self can flourish.