Meaning
The commanding lower self that incites a person toward evil and base desire.
Literally: the self that commands (to evil)
Usage & notes
Iqbal makes the conquest of the nafs-e-ammara the first labour of khudi, for the ego must master its appetites before it can rule itself.
Related words
ARABIC
Nafs-e-Lawwama
The self-reproaching soul that blames itself for wrongdoing and turns toward repentance.
ARABIC
Nafs-e-Mutmainna
The tranquil soul at peace, satisfied in God and assured of His pleasure.
ARABIC
Mujahida
The inner spiritual struggle against the carnal self, the greater jihad of self-discipline.