The Islamic conception of the soul is that it is not a physical thing that can be studied. Rather, the focus should be on understanding how it can help us achieve spiritual growth.
The human soul is a non-physical essence that cannot be observed through any scientific instruments. Muslims focus on understanding the nature and function of the soul, rather than on questions about the soul’s location or physical existence.
The relationship of the soul to the body is a mystery beyond human comprehension.
“They ask you concerning the soul. Say that the soul is from the affair of my Lord and you have not been given knowledge except a portion.”
[Qur’an, 17:85]
How can we confirm the soul’s existence if it cannot be seen or fully understood? In an Islamic worldview, the function and effect of the soul are clear. It is seen in the universal drive towards spiritual experiences and beliefs. Divine ideals of beauty, love, compassion, and justice are all aims of the human soul in Islam and expressed spiritually through the mediums of art, poetry, ritual, and religious tradition.
So how can we best fulfill this need to nourish the soul? God says,
“So turn your face toward the true natural way of life-God’s chosen fitrah (constitution) upon which He has formed humanity. There is no altering the primary state of God’s creation. That is the correct way of life, though men fail to realize it. It is the path of turning towards God, remaining dutiful to Him, establishing prayer, and being not of those who ascribe partners to Him.”
[Qur’an, 30:30]