Treatise on the Nature of the Soul: Introduction

So, it seemed worthwhile to me to clarify what I have determined regarding this [subject], that it be a clear interpretation for whoever can apprehend it. Thus, I composed, with the help of the Creator, this treatise in Arabic. In it, I explain the different schools of thought regarding the soul and the investigation of it. I elucidate some of its aspects through etymological analysis of the Hebrew names [for it], which I have found. Then I clarify its essential characteristics. Afterward I consider its fundamental properties. Subsequently, I show how the two different souls, which constitute the true form of the physical body, are connected. Then I describe the characteristics of each of the two different souls and their essential features. Then I enable you to understand the fundamental principles of each of the three levels of man’s soul—that is, the vegetative, the animal, and the rational—and how each of them depends on, and is influenced by, the others; and their arrangement with each other; and the celestial similarities to the human body, and the similarity to the spiritual powers. Because every intellect yearns to know their truth. For these are among the inscrutable things, the essence of which one seeks to contemplate. Afterward I describe their virtues in totality, and the character of each by itself [in terms of its] virtu[ous] and vile characteristics. Then I assemble all the terms and descriptors. I elucidate their meanings in accordance with the meanings found in their names. Then I consider their purpose, the quality of their substance, and essence. Next I elucidate the reason the rational soul must depart and descend to this world. Then I describe the states of the human soul, the various levels in their return, and what they deserve after [leaving] this world. And I consider the generation of [physical] bodies, and what their principal element is, and where it [i.e., their principal element] is to be found in scripture, and what their hylic state was at the beginning of Creation. Then I elucidate how matter emerges from potentiality to attain its form, its physical features, and the accidents that inhere in it, until such time that they appear as sensible [objects] in their [varying] forms. Consequently, there shall remain no query that could be asked about any of these fundamentals that I have not elucidated completely. I have categorically shown their nature to the utmost. One who is perceptive and devoid of laziness and inattention will be satisfied and fulfilled with this. In all this, I have sought brevity and have endeavored to strike the target, in order to facilitate its pursuit. And if I have repeated verses and their interpretations, it is for emphasis and clarification. So there was no choice but to emphasize and include those repetitions.

I seek help in that regarding what I intend from Him who instills me with right knowledge, who guides me toward the disclosure of truth and the right, who sets me along the way of uprightness, who includes me in the reward and recompense He bestows on those who strive to obey Him. For this is the summit of my refuge, the goal of my efforts and aspirations. For He, in His mercy, hearkens and replies, is compassionate and near, the enabler of all good things. In Him it is fitting [to trust], as it says: The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul that seeks Him (Lamentations 3:25). And it says: You are good and do good; teach me Your statutes (Psalms 119:68).