When discussing a topic such as this, it is perhaps best to begin with its definition and an 
assessment of its importance. Let us then begin by defining some terms. In Arabic self
knowledge is called Marafatul‐Nafs. What is Marafatul‐Nafs or self‐knowledge? It is 
knowledge about us, but what kind of knowledge? It is not the kind that has to do with 
knowing one's name, or father's name, or the place and date of one's birth. Self‐knowledge 
deals with another aspect of our being. It is not related to our physical senses, rather it deals 
with the spiritual dimension of our lives.