The AL-HAYAT Research Journal (AHRJ), accredited in the Y Category by HJRS, HEC and published by the AL-HAYAT RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES (SMC-PRIVATE) LIMITED. Previously it was published by JLALI RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCE (SMC-PRIVATE) LIMITED and is a quarterly, trilingual (English, Arabic, Urdu), double-blind, peer-reviewed, open-access journal, available online (ISSN 3006-4767) and in print (ISSN 3006-4759). AHRJ promotes interreligious harmony, multidisciplinary research, academic excellence, intellectual exchange, and open-access knowledge while empowering emerging scholars. It bridges academia and society, fostering understanding and global peace by providing a platform for critical insights across Religious Studies, Social Sciences, and Arts and Humanities.
AL-HAYAT RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES (SMC-PRIVATE) LIMITED
Effects of Shuttle Training on Agility, Flexibility, and Reaction Time among School-Level Basketball Players
Shuttle training plays an important role in enhancing agility, flexibility, and reaction time in basketball players. This study was to investigate the effects of shuttle training on the flexibility, agility, and performance of basketball players at the school level. This study used an experimental research design with a pre-test intervention and a post-test design with comparative analysis. A total of n = 30 participants were randomly assigned to the shuttle training group (n = 15) and the other control group (n = 15). The experimental group completed an 8-week shuttle training program, consisting of three 60 minutes session per week. The control group continued their regular basketball training. Pre and post-tests were conducted to measure agility, flexibility, and reaction time. The normality tests confirmed that all performance variables are reasonably normally distributed (p > 0.05). Descriptive statistics indicated a pre-intervention mean of 21.41 ± for agility, 32.36 ± 3.99 for flexibility, 104.85 ± 6.80 ms for reaction time, and 33.33 ± 2.04 cm. Post intervention participation in the shuttle training group showed improvements with means of 20.55 ± 1.11 agility, 40.90 ± 5.05 flexibility, 97.58 ± 9.99 ms reaction time, and 31.78 ± 3.40 cm. T-test and ANOVA indicated significant improvement in all variables for the experimental group ( p > 0.05. There are remarkable changes observed in the control group. The results show that shuttle training significantly improves agility, flexibility, reaction time, and jump performance among basketball players. These findings highlight the efficacy of incorporating shuttle training into regular practice sessions to improve overall performance. Trainers and coaches can use this approach to enhance players' capabilities and reduce the risk of injury.
Copyright (c) 2026 AL-HAYAT Research Journal (AHRJ) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Comparative Examination of Hinduism through Muslim and Orientalist Perspectives: Historical, Intellectual, and Civilizational Dimensions
This study presents a critical and comparative analysis of Hinduism through the perspectives of Muslim and Orientalist scholarship, focusing on its historical, intellectual, and cultural dimensions. Drawing primarily on the works of Abu Rayhan al-Biruni and Klaus Klostermaier, the research examines how two distinct epistemological frameworks interpret the complex and fluid nature of Hindu traditions. Al-Biruni’s approach is characterized by linguistic immersion, cultural sensitivity, and an effort toward objective documentation, while Orientalist scholarship often employs historical-critical and analytical methodologies shaped by modern academic paradigms. The study explores key themes such as linguistic barriers, social structures, religious pluralism, and the evolution of Hindu thought, highlighting both convergences and divergences in interpretation. It also critically evaluates the limitations inherent in each perspective, including issues of bias, methodological assumptions, and contextual constraints. By juxtaposing classical Muslim scholarship with contemporary Orientalist analysis, the paper underscores the necessity of a balanced and interdisciplinary approach to understanding Hinduism. Ultimately, the study argues that a nuanced synthesis of these perspectives offers a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of one of the world’s most complex religious traditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 AL-HAYAT Research Journal (AHRJ) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Islamic Teachings and the Role of Social Pluralism and Tolerance in Modern Societies
This research article presents an analysis of the concepts of social pluralism and tolerance within Islamic teachings from historical, exegetical, and social perspectives. The increasing cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity in modern societies has created new challenges for peaceful coexistence. This research demonstrates that Islamic sources (the Quran, Sunnah, and jurisprudence) not only acknowledge pluralism but consider it a part of divine wisdom. Practical models are presented in light of the Constitution of Medina (Sahifah al-Madinah), the civilization of Andalusia (Convivencia), and the Ottoman Millet system. In the modern context, under the framework of Fiqh al-Aqalliyyat (Jurisprudence of Minorities) and Maqasid al-Shariah (Objectives of Islamic Law), social pluralism can be utilized for national unity, prevention of extremism, and interfaith dialogue. The research concludes that intolerance in contemporary Muslim societies is not a flaw of Islam but rather the result of historical and political factors, and that by highlighting the principle of Wasatiyyah (moderation) present in Islamic teachings, internal and external conflicts can be resolved.
Islamic Education and Identity Construction: A Comparative Study of Madrasa and Secular School Students in Pakistan
In Pakistan’s complex socio-political context, the parallel existence of madrasas and secular schools (both public and private) plays a central role in shaping how young people understand themselves and their place in society. This study explores how these different educational settings influence the development of religious, national, and civic identities among students. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the research is based on a comparative cross-sectional survey of 400 students aged 15–18 from Punjab and Sindh, along with semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were collected through validated Likert-scale instruments and analyzed using statistical methods, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The findings point to clear differences in how identity is formed across the two systems. Students in madrasas tend to express a stronger sense of religious identity, whereas those in secular schools show comparatively greater alignment with national identity and civic values. At the same time, the qualitative data suggest that these identities are not simply separate; rather, students negotiate and combine them in different ways depending on their educational environment. Overall, the study highlights the influential role of educational institutions in shaping identity. It suggests that future curriculum reforms should aim to bring religious, national, and civic dimensions into better balance, with the broader goal of strengthening social cohesion in Pakistan.
Characteristics of Hypocrites in the Light of the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah and Contemporary Social Trends
This study examines the characteristics of hypocrites (Munafiqeen) in the light of the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah and analyzes their reflection in contemporary social trends. Hypocrisy is presented in Islamic teachings as a serious moral and spiritual disease that affects both individual integrity and collective social harmony. The Qur’an and Sunnah describe hypocrites as those who outwardly display faith while concealing disbelief or insincerity in their hearts, thereby causing harm to the moral and social fabric of society. The research highlights key traits of hypocrisy, including dishonesty, betrayal of trust, false speech, double standards, and weakening of communal unity. It further explores how these characteristics manifest in modern society through political opportunism, social media deception, ethical decline, and the erosion of truthfulness in interpersonal relationships. The study concludes that the Qur’anic and Prophetic teachings provide a comprehensive framework to identify and address hypocrisy, emphasizing sincerity (Ikhlas), truthfulness (Sidq), and accountability as essential values for individual and societal reform. It also suggests that addressing hypocritical behavior in contemporary society is crucial for restoring moral balance and social justice
POST-COMPETITION STRESS AND RECOVERY OUTCOMES AMONG UNIVERSITY ATHLETES: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY
Background: It's not uncommon for athletes to feel mentally and physically fatigue right after a big game, but post-competition stress doesn't get the attention it deserves. University athletes, in particular, have a lot on their plates, juggling tough classes with intense training, which can make this kind of stress even harder to shake off. Objectives: This study wanted to find out whether there's a real link between how much stress athletes feel after competing and how well they recover afterward. Specifically, we looked at things like getting their energy back, sleeping well, feeling physically restored, and simply staying in a good headspace. Methods: We worked with 180 university athletes from the University of Education, Lahore, during the 2025–2026 school year. Most were between 18 and 25 years old, and just over half (51.4%) were female. We asked them to fill out two questionnaires: one measured their post-competition stress within a day or two after their event, and the other (the RESTQ-Sport) looked at their recovery a few days later. Then we ran correlation and regression analyses to see how the two were connected. Results: What we found was fairly obvious: the more stress athletes reported after competing, the worse their recovery tended to be. They felt more worn out, slept more poorly, had less drive to get back to training, and just didn't bounce back physically as well. The numbers also showed that post-competition stress on its own was a strong predictor of poor recovery. Conclusion: This matters because it means paying attention to how athletes feel right after competing is just as important as what they do physically to recover. Coaches, sports psychologists, and university staff can use these findings to build better support systems—ones that take both the mind and body seriously—to help student-athletes truly recover and thrive.
Assessing the Impact of Islamic Jurisprudence on Contemporary International Law
This research article explores the profound and multifaceted influence of Islamic teachings on the evolution and structure of modern international law. While contemporary global legal frameworks are often viewed through a Western-centric lens, this study contends that the foundational principles of Siyar (Islamic International Law) have historically contributed to, and pre-empted, many core tenets of modern humanitarian and diplomatic conduct. The analysis delves into several critical dimensions, including the Islamic doctrine of jus in bello (laws of war), which emphasizes the protection of non-combatants, environmental preservation during conflicts, and the ethical treatment of prisoners of war—principles that align closely with the Geneva Conventions. Furthermore, the paper examines the Islamic emphasis on the sanctity of treaties (Ahd), the concept of global justice, and the egalitarian framework of human rights that challenges the conventional Westphalian sovereignty model. By synthesizing classical Islamic legal texts with modern international legal instruments, this article demonstrates that Islamic jurisprudence offers a sophisticated, moral, and universalistic approach to global governance. The findings suggest that integrating Islamic legal ethics can provide a more inclusive and pluralistic foundation for addressing 21st-century global challenges, fostering a synthesis between divine justice and secular legal frameworks.
Overview of Arabic poetry and its role in Islamic culture
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Arabic poetry and its significant role in shaping Islamic culture across different historical periods. It highlights how Arabic poetry, originally regarded as the “diwan of the Arabs,” functioned as a primary medium for preserving history, expressing social values, and reflecting the intellectual life of Arab society before Islam. With the advent of Islam, poetry underwent a process of refinement and redirection, aligning itself with ethical and spiritual principles, and becoming a powerful tool for defending the faith and promoting Islamic values, as exemplified by poets such as Hassan ibn Thabit and Ka'b ibn Zuhayr. The study further explores the thematic diversity of Arabic poetry within the Islamic framework, including praise (madīḥ), satire (hijā’), elegy (rithā’), wisdom (ḥikmah), asceticism (zuhd), and Sufi poetry, all of which contributed to moral and spiritual development. It also examines the flourishing of poetry in Al-Andalus, where artistic innovation and aesthetic refinement reached new heights, particularly in the works of Ibn Zaydun. In the modern era, Arabic poetry experienced significant transformations in both form and content, incorporating new styles such as free verse while continuing to address contemporary social, political, and cultural issues. Poets like Ahmed Shawqi and Mahmoud Darwish exemplify this blend of tradition and modernity. The article concludes that Arabic poetry has played a vital role in constructing Islamic cultural identity by preserving heritage, promoting ethical values, and influencing collective consciousness. It remains a dynamic and enduring form of expression that bridges artistic beauty with meaningful cultural and religious messages.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCREEN TIME AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
The proliferation of digital technologies has significantly transformed the daily routines of university students, with smartphones, laptops, and tablets occupying a substantial portion of their time and potentially displacing health-promoting behaviors such as physical activity [3]. This study aimed to examine the relationship between daily screen time and physical activity levels among undergraduate sports sciences students, while also identifying behavioral and perceptual factors influencing this association. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used, involving a convenience sample of 120 students aged 18–25 from the University of Education, Lahore. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire, Screen Time Assessment Scale, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF), and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and independent sample t-tests. The findings revealed that smartphones were the primary device for 89.2% of participants, with 52.5% exceeding four hours of daily screen time. Additionally, 43.7% reported reduced physical activity due to increased screen use, while 43.2% experienced fatigue that limited exercise. Only 45.7% met the WHO-recommended 150 minutes of weekly moderate-to-vigorous activity. The results indicate a significant inverse relationship between screen time and physical activity, highlighting the need for institutional digital wellness initiatives and structured physical education programs to reduce sedentary behavior.
Awareness and Usage of Fitness Tracking Applications Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
In the contemporary digital landscape, mobile health (mHealth) applications have emerged as pivotal instruments for monitoring physical activity, especially among younger cohorts. University students, a demographic frequently challenged by sedentary academic routines, serve as a critical focal point for digital health interventions. This research explored the awareness and engagement patterns regarding fitness tracking applications among university students in Pakistan, while also identifying the behavioral and technical catalysts for adoption. Utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional design, data was gathered from 152 participants at the University of Education, Lahore, through a validated 30-item, 5-point Likert-scale instrument. The findings revealed that while foundational awareness was high (exceeding 78%), sustained daily engagement remained limited, with fewer than 50% reporting consistent use. Key impediments to long-term adoption included data confidentiality concerns, high battery consumption, and the 'novelty effect.' Interestingly, a significant majority (69.1%) expressed a preference for integrating these digital tools into formal university sports curricula. The study concludes that a notable 'awareness-usage' gap persists in the Pakistani academic context. Bridging this disparity requires robust institutional frameworks, enhanced application optimization, and targeted digital health literacy initiatives to convert passive awareness into lasting behavioral change.
Selected Forms of Annulment of Marriage An Analytical Study of the Recommendations of the Islamic Ideological Council
The institution of Nikah (marriage) is central to Islamic social structure, aimed at fostering mutual love, peace, and stability within a family. However, when conflicts become irreconcilable, Islam allows for the dissolution of marriage through various legitimate forms such as Talaq (divorce), Khula, Faskh-e-Nikah (judicial annulment), and Lian. These provisions are rooted in the principles of justice, compassion, and individual well-being. In Pakistan, the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) plays a vital constitutional role in reviewing and recommending laws in accordance with Islamic teachings, including issues concerning the termination of marriage. The CII has made several recommendations regarding the selected forms of marriage dissolution, with a strong emphasis on protecting women's rights and simplifying the legal process. Notably, the Council proposed that a woman’s request for Khula should not require prolonged court procedures if mutual reconciliation efforts fail. It has also emphasized the importance of recognizing cruelty, prolonged absence, and lack of maintenance as valid grounds for Faskh-e-Nikah, thereby aligning legal interpretations with the spirit of Shariah and contemporary societal needs. The study aims to analyze these selected recommendations critically, evaluating their alignment with Islamic jurisprudence and their practical implications in the legal and social context of Pakistan. It also considers the perspectives of different schools of thought to offer a balanced and scholarly understanding. Through this analysis, the study seeks to highlight the potential of these recommendations to fill legal and social gaps, particularly in safeguarding women’s dignity and rights in situations of marital discord. This research contributes to ongoing academic and legislative discourse by exploring how Islamic teachings, through institutions like the CII, can address modern challenges while staying rooted in divine guidance. The analysis may offer valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and legal practitioners alike.
A Critical Discourse Analysis of Naming and Numbering in Gaza War Coverage
This paper examines how victims are represented in international news media coverage of the Gaza war, with reference to linguistic features of naming and numbering. The paper is based on ten news stories of CNN and Al Jazeera English about five similar events, which undergo qualitative analysis through Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) incorporating the ideas of Fairclough, Halliday, and van Leeuwen. The results show steady use of numerical representation in both outlets, with victims mostly described in aggregate numbers rather than as individual persons. There is no naming whatsoever in the dataset, which is indicative of a more general tendency towards abstraction in conflict coverage. But differences in framing arise. CNN often uses passive and indirect forms of constructions that background agency and focus on the results. Al Jazeera English, in turn, tends to employ active forms more frequently and include contextual or identity-related information, attributing actions to their actors and placing victims in particular situations. The research claims that the two outlets are similar in structural terms regarding their victim representations, but differences in linguistic decisions determine attitudes towards responsibility and human influence. The research provides a micro-level view of the media discourse and conflict coverage studies, by foregrounding naming over numbering.
A Research-Based and Analytical Study of the Legal Maxims (Qawāʿid Fiqhiyyah) Mentioned in Imam Alā’ al-Dīn al-Kāsānī’s Book Badā’iʿ al-Ṣanā’iʿ (The Book of Prayer)
Islamic jurisprudence developed comprehensive legal principles, known as fiqh maxims, to organize numerous subsidiary rulings within coherent legal frameworks. These maxims play a significant role in understanding juristic reasoning and facilitating the systematic study of Islamic law. Among the most important classical works that reflect this methodological approach is Badā’iʿ al-Ṣanā’iʿ fī Tartīb al-Sharā’iʿ by the eminent Ḥanafī jurist Imām ʿAlāʾ al-Dīn al-Kāsānī (d. 587 AH). This study examines a set of legal maxims mentioned in the Kitāb al-Ṣalāh of Badā’iʿ al-Ṣanā’iʿ. The research analyzes fourteen selected maxims, exploring their meanings, alternative formulations in classical juristic literature, and their practical applications in the jurisprudence of prayer. It also highlights their scriptural foundations and demonstrates how Imām al-Kāsānī employed these principles to explain and systematize legal rulings.
Mapping Population Choices in Library and Information Science Research: A Content Analysis of Mphil Theses from Pakistan
This paper analyzes population selection in MPhil Library and Information Science LIS theses in Pakistan. Population choices refer to major aspects like the geographical location, social level of population, scope of population and size of population. A quantitative content analysis method was adopted where 112 theses were analyzed. Frequency counts and percentage distributions were used to determine the dominant trends. The findings show that the process of population selection depends mainly on the dynamics of accessibility and institutional proximity instead of theoretical and research-based arguments. Geographically, the populations were usually localized in the surrounding cities or institutions whereas the selection of the social level was primarily directed on the student, librarian and faculty member. Population size was often restricted to one or two departments or organizations and less than half of the theses made an explicit report of the population size. Reasons behind population choice were either lacking or not sufficient and little proportion gave clear reasoning according to the research objectives or representativeness. The paper finds that even though the present procedures of population selection make the collection of the data feasible, they are usually not conceptually clear, thoughtful, and thoroughly reported. To enhance the relevance of LIS research in Pakistan, strengthening methodological training, focusing on clear population definitions and standardization of reporting practices are necessary to enhance credibility, transparency, and scholarly contribution of the research.
Library and Information Science PhD productivity in Pakistan: Mapping of Institutional, Geographic, and Temporal Dimensions
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of doctoral-level research trends in Library and Information Science in Pakistan, focusing on gender distribution, institutional contribution, temporal growth, sectoral representation, geographic disparities, and supervisory productivity. Quantitative approach was used to carry out the current study. Bibliometric analysis method was adopted. The findings reveal significant imbalances in the productivity of PhD dissertations. The gender-based analysis highlights male PhD graduates outnumbering (74%) their female counterparts. Institutional distribution indicates a strong concentration of doctoral output within a limited number of universities, particularly those located in Punjab. The temporal analysis demonstrates a clear upward trend in research productivity, with a significant increase in doctoral output observed in recent years. Sector-wise findings reveal the overwhelming dominance government sector universities in doctoral research output (94%). Geographic analysis further exposes regional disparities, with research productivity heavily concentrated in Punjab (81%), while other regions exhibit comparatively low output. Finally, the study identifies a concentration of supervisory productivity among a small group of highly active scholars, while many supervisors contribute minimally. Overall, the study provides valuable insights for policymakers and academic institutions to enhance equity, strengthen institutional capacity, and support sustainable development in Library and Information Science research in Pakistan.
Body Image and Fitness Culture in the Age of Social Media
The interplay of body image and fitness culture in the age of social media is examined by means of a cross-sectional survey design. The aim was to examine how digital media influences body image, fitness engagement, and related psychosocial variables. A structural questionnaire was used for 450 university students (18–30 years old) composed of validated scales: Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and WHO-5 Wellbeing Index. Descriptive statistics, regression models, and thematic analysis of open ended responses were used in the analyses. Results showed a significant association between greater social media engagement and body dissatisfaction (β =. 34, p <. 01), more involvement in appearance-motivated fitness behaviors (χ² = 12. 05), and lower self-esteem (M = 18.7, SD = 4.3). Results indicated that social media will both drive fitness participation and negatively increase body dissatisfaction. There is an urgent demand for media literacy initiatives, body image positive campaigns and also multifaceted approaches in public health programmes that are rooted in a psychosocial analysis. This study adds to an emergent body of literature by providing emprical evidence on how modern-day social media transforms fitness culture.
Geostrategic, Legal, and Economic Analysis of Pakistan’s Potential Annexation of the Wakhan Corridor for Access to Central Asia
The Wakhan Corridor, a narrow stretch of land connecting Afghanistan with China, has long been a region of strategic importance due to its location and role as a geographical bridge between South Asia, Central Asia, and East Asia. For Pakistan, this corridor presents a unique geopolitical opportunity, as it provides a potential access point to Central Asia’s abundant resources, expanding trade routes, and broader economic integration. However, the question remains: should Pakistan annex the Wakhan Corridor? This paper explores the strategic, economic, and geopolitical implications of such an annexation, analyzing the potential benefits, risks, and challenges from multiple angles. Drawing from historical accounts, geopolitical theories, and contemporary diplomatic perspectives, this research evaluates the geopolitical calculus, economic motivations, security concerns, and potential consequences for regional and international relations.
The Role of Selected Muslim Thinkers in Economics: From Imam Abu Yusufؒ to the Contemporary Era
This research explores the pivotal role of Muslim thinkers in the development of economic thought, tracing contributions from Imam Abu Yusuf (d. 798 CE) to contemporary scholars such as Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani. Islamic economics is not limited to material welfare but integrates ethical principles, Shariah compliance, and societal well-being. Early scholars, including Abu Yusuf, Ibn Hazm, Imam Ghazali, Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Khaldun, laid foundational concepts in fiscal policy, public finance, labor division, fair trade, pricing and market regulation, often centuries before similar theories emerged in Western economic thought. Their work emphasizes justice, equitable distribution of wealth and the moral responsibility of rulers and citizens in economic transactions. In the modern era, Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani has operationalized these principles to develop contemporary Islamic banking and finance frameworks, including instruments such as Murabaha, Mudarabah, Musharakah, Istisna and Sukuk. His scholarship bridges classical Islamic jurisprudence with present-day financial systems, promoting profit-and-loss sharing, interest-free banking, and ethical investment practices. The study highlights that Islamic economic thought offers a comprehensive framework combining ethical, social, and financial dimensions, providing alternatives to conventional capitalist and socialist models. By examining both historical and contemporary perspectives, this research underscores the enduring relevance of Islamic economic principles for policy-making, financial regulation and societal welfare, reinforcing the global applicability of a Shariah-compliant economic model.
The Prophet’s Uncle: The Personality, Services, and Scholarly Legacy of Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib (رضی اللہ عنہ)
This research article explores the personality, services, and scholarly legacy of Hazrat Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib (RA), the esteemed uncle of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It highlights his early life, close relationship with the Prophet (ﷺ), and his significant contributions to the development and support of the early Muslim community. The study examines his acceptance of Islam, his role in key historical events, and his unwavering loyalty to the Prophet (ﷺ). Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib (d. 32 AH / 653 CE), the beloved uncle of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), was not only a close family member but also a devoted and respected companion. Born to Abd al-Muttalib and Nutayla bint Janab, he was known for his role as the provider of water to pilgrims (Saqi al-Haramain) and for his success in trade. In the early days of Islam, he stood quietly but firmly by the Prophet, offering protection while keeping his faith hidden. Although he was compelled to stand with the Quraysh during the Battle of Badr, he was taken captive. The Prophet ensured he was treated with kindness, even instructing that his restraints be loosened, and he was later freed through ransom. Before the Conquest of Mecca, Abbas openly embraced Islam and was honored with the title “the last of the emigrants.” From then on, he remained actively involved in key events such as the Conquest of Mecca, Hunayn, Ta’if, and Tabuk. Notably, during the intense moments at Hunayn, when many had scattered, he remained steadfast beside the Prophet.He was a narrator of hadith and a man deeply respected by the Rightly Guided Caliphs, who valued his wisdom and counsel. He was also known for his sincere prayers, which people believed were often accepted. Among his children was Abdullah ibn Abbas, later known as the “Interpreter of the Quran.” Generations later, his descendants would establish the Abbasid Caliphate. Abbas passed away in Medina and was laid to rest in Jannat al-Baqi. The Prophet once said about him: “Abbas is like my father’s own brother; whoever harms him, harms me.”
Ram Lal is a prominent Urdu short story writer who has deeply explored human psychology, social issues, and cultural conflicts through his writings. His stories reveal the harsh realities of life and present the problems of the middle class with great sincerity and honesty. From a technical perspective, Ram Lal’s short stories are characterized by simplicity and fluency, yet they also contain glimpses of deep thought and philosophy. His narrative style, though descriptive, possesses a strong emotional appeal. Ram Lal has introduced diversity in his themes, artistically portraying social contradictions, moral values, and the complexities of human relationships with masterful skill.
An analytical study of Qurratulain Hyder's novel "Aag Ka Darya"
Qurat-ul-Ain Haider is a renowned Urdu novelist best known for her masterpiece “Aag Ka Darya.” She stands as one of the most distinguished authors in Urdu Literature. This article examines the unique stylistic features of her novel “Aag ka Karya”. The novel employs a distinct narrative method compared to earlier Urdu fiction, portraying three thousand years of the subcontinent's history through its storyline. The winter affairs that Qurat-ul-Ain Haider’s efforts and literary contributions hold a significant place in Urdu literature.
Fundamentals of Moral Responsibility in Islam
Moral values could be the base of Human Civilization and without which there may not be any difference between a civilized man and an animal. Removing the moral values and moral responsibility from the society, any type of evil could be justified, as it is seen gradually in the occidental societies. The moral values and their strength in a nation is a matter of pride for those people. A nation whose collective morals are high has always potential to lead other civilizations with its own, and the same is true for the opposite. This is the reason behind that when we see many non-Muslim Nations lead the world, just because they steadfast with the high moral values as justice, protection of rights of the weak, etc. And when a nation, Muslim or non-Muslim, leave these high moral values, no one can save her from the demise. Due to this utmost importance of the moral sense in humans, Islam regards the moral values as one of the integral parts of the Divine Revelation. It is reported that our beloved Prophet peace be upon him has said, “Indeed I am sent to complete the high morals”. Islam aims to create a sense of moral responsibility in its adherents so that they show a complete picture of an ideal society, and so that each Muslim enjoys his freedom as well as his choice to do best moral deeds. Therefore, the moral sense of Responsibility is the basic force that prevents an individual to control his desires and not harm others for his benefit The disturbance in the equilibrium of social behavior, decline of moral values in the Muslims and weakening of Family stability in our times appealed to me to look into the topic.
Morality, Responsibility, Divine, Obligations, faith
The Impact of Hadith Studies Teaching in Sialkot: An Analytical Study of Academic, Intellectual, and Social Dimensions
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the teaching of ʿUlūm al-Ḥadīth in Sialkot, examining its scholarly, intellectual, and social impacts. By exploring both historical and contemporary educational practices in traditional madrasas and modern universities, the research highlights the role of Hadith instruction in shaping students’ critical thinking, analytical abilities, and moral development. The study also evaluates the comparative effectiveness of curricular structures, pedagogical approaches, and research standards, while acknowledging the contributions of prominent scholars and academic families in preserving and transmitting Hadith scholarship. The findings indicate that both educational systems have significantly contributed to the intellectual formation of students and the broader community. At the same time, the research identifies areas requiring improvement, particularly in curriculum development, teaching resources, and the integration of modern research methodologies. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of collaborative academic forums, workshops, and digital resources to enhance scholarly productivity and social engagement. Overall, the study demonstrates that Hadith education in Sialkot continues to uphold its rich scholarly tradition while adapting to contemporary academic and societal demands.
Uloum al-Hadith, Sialkot, Teaching, Intellectual Impact, Social Impact, Curriculum, Comparative Analysis, Research Standards
Instagram Captions as Identity Performance: A Multimodal Discourse Analysis
Social media platforms have transformed everyday communication into a public performance of identity. Among these platforms, Instagram stands out as a highly multimodal environment where text, image, emoji, hashtags, and interactional affordances jointly construct meaning. This study investigates how Instagram captions function as sites of identity performance through a multimodal discourse analysis approach. Drawing on social semiotic theory, multimodality, and digital identity frameworks, the paper examines how captions interact with visual and paralinguistic elements to construct selfhood, authenticity, and social positioning. The analysis demonstrates that captions do not merely describe images; rather, they actively frame interpretation, negotiate audience relationships, and enact curated identities. The study contributes to digital discourse research by emphasizing captions as key semiotic tools in identity construction rather than secondary textual supplements.
multimodality, discourse analysis, Instagram, identity performance, digital self-presentation, captions
Academic Integrity in the Age of Generative AI: Challenges to Critical Thinking and Ethical Scholarship
The dynamic development of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has greatly changed the academic culture in higher education, both bringing some opportunities and challenges to the area of learning, assessment, and ethical scholarship. Although AI applications can be used to improve efficiency and facilitate engagement among students, the proliferation of AI tools has brought up serious questions of academic honesty and the loss of critical thinking abilities. This study critically examines recent empirical research, institutional policies, and international guidelines published between 2023 and 2026 to explore how generative AI influences student cognition, assessment validity, and integrity enforcement. The evidence suggests that unorganized use of AI can cause cognitive offloading, decrease long-term learning, and become more difficult to check authorship, and the traditional models of assessment become more susceptible to AI-generated submissions. Nevertheless, it also indicates that in case of an integrated approach to AI, it could also serve as a scaffold that facilitates reflective thinking and skill acquisition. The study concludes that sustaining academic integrity in the generative AI era requires assessment redesign, transparent disclosure norms, and comprehensive AI literacy education to ensure that critical thinking remains central to higher education.
Generative artificial intelligence, academic integrity, critical thinking, higher education, assessment redesign, ethical scholarship
N. M. Rashid’s Poem “Abu Lahab ki Shadi”: A Study of the Historical, Civilizational, and Cultural Context of Arab Society
M. Rashid occupies a seminal position in Urdu literature. His literary career is marked by a series of remarkable poetic achievements, and his contribution to the enrichment of the Urdu language is widely acknowledged. Rashid’s strong command of the Persian idiom enabled him to experiment with diverse forms of artistic expression, which continue to fascinate and inspire literary connoisseurs. Moreover, he introduced a wide and distinctive range of themes into Urdu poetry, allowing successive generations of readers to discover new and innovative meanings in his work. “Abu Lahab ki Shadi” (The Marriage of Abu Lahab) is among Rashid’s most significant and aesthetically accomplished poems. Abu Lahab functions as a powerful and frequently invoked metaphor representing intransigence, hypocrisy, cunning, and intellectual stagnation. While Rashid appears to employ this figure within its traditional symbolic framework, the poem itself is rich with multiple layers of meaning. This article examines the poem by integrating its essential and classical interpretation with more persuasive contemporary connotations. Such reinterpretations become particularly relevant in a world that has shifted from overt colonial domination to more complex and subtle forms of control over subaltern territories, resources, cultures, and civilizations. By fusing tradition with twenty-first-century sensibilities, the author offers a more comprehensive reading of the poem, encouraging readers to revisit and re-explore the text with renewed critical insight.
N. M. Rashid, Abu Lahab ki Shadi, Arab Society, Historical and Cultural Context, Symbolism
A Critical Research Review of Edward Said’s and Ibn Warraq’s Views on Orientalism and Orientalists
With the rise of Islam, interactions with Christian and Jewish communities were often shaped by political conflict, military confrontation, and ideological opposition; however, over time it became apparent that direct confrontation was ineffective in influencing Muslim societies, leading Western scholars to engage in systematic study of Islamic sources, history, and civilization—an intellectual enterprise that later developed into what is known as Orientalism. Within this tradition, three broad orientations of Orientalists can be identified: first, those whose deep engagement with Islamic studies ultimately led them to embrace Islam, such as Martin Lings and Maurice Bucaille; second, those who did not convert but offered balanced and sympathetic interpretations of Islam, defending it against misrepresentations and critiquing earlier Orientalist biases, including scholars such as Edward Said and Karen Armstrong; and third, those who adopted a polemical and hostile approach, portraying Islam as an inherently violent religion and questioning the authenticity of its Prophet and foundational teachings. This study analyzes these three orientations in order to demonstrate the diversity within Orientalist discourse and to assess its intellectual and ideological implications for the academic study of Islam.
Orientalism, Orientalist Scholarship, Islam and the West, Edward Said, Critiques of Islam
A Reflective Turn in CDA Pedagogy: Applying a Sociocognitive Lens to Self-Reported Shifts in Critical Awareness
The qualitative research design explores the perceived effects of learning Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) on students' critical reading awareness at English as a Foreign Language (EFL) university. Dropping the research based on the intervention, it uses students' self-reports of changes in their attitudes towards texts after completing a CDA course. Data were gathered with the help of five undergraduate students in a two-stage process, i.e., a written before/after reflection task on a news article and a discussion during a focus group. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis based on van Dijk's sociocognitive framework, organized into three levels: semantic, cognitive, and social awareness. Results show a distinct self-reported process of transitioning between surface-level reading and critical literacy. The participants discussed shifting the emphasis from vocabulary and literal meaning to lexical bias and framing (semantic); the presence of textual authority in doubting its interpretation and situating meaning (cognitive); and the perception of texts as neutral, leading to the identification of underlying ideologies and power dynamics (social). The study finds that a short-term CDA training program with structured reflective practice can help foster long-term critical thinking. It suggests that incorporating reflective practice into CDA instruction is pedagogically important for making critical awareness visible and viable to students.
Critical Discourse Analysis, Sociocognitive Approach, Critical Literacy, EFL Learners, Reflective Practice, Self-Reported Change, Discourse Awareness
The Social Reasons for the Destruction of Previous Nations in Light of the Prophetic Tradition and its Impact on the Islamic Nation (An Analytical and Critical Study)
This paper highlights the theoretical origins of destruction in the light of Sunnah of Holy Prophet (Peace be upon Him) and explores its grounds in contemporary era among Muslim Ummah. The study suggests the best possible strategy to leave dreadful practices for the promotion of humanity. Such practices have deleted nations from the map of the universe according to Ḥadīth literature. It gives new lessons to Muslim Ummah for the betterment and development keeping shine cods for non-Muslims in current time. Even in postmodern time, the Ḥadīth literature provides high distinguish to learn useful ways for all humanity. The Holy Prophet (Peace be upon Him) used the divine communication protocols with non-believers to adopt peace in the society for uprising the sacred mission to every corner of the world. The Holy Prophet (Peace be upon Him) has had vision to build social stability because of uttering previous destructive practices. Muslim Ummah may leave such practices and get valuable ethics for social stability. The analytical recommendations can be fruited for Muslim and non-Muslim nations especially in the current challenging situations in the world.
Previous Nations, Destruction, Causes, Sunnah, Influence, Ummah
Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Integration in Islamic Banking: Opportunities, Efficiency Gains, and Emerging Challenges
In recent years, Islamic financial and banking institutions have increasingly adopted artificial intelligence (AI) technologies as a strategic tool to enhance operational efficiency, automate complex banking processes, improve service quality, and strengthen their competitive positioning within both domestic and global financial markets. The accelerating digital transformation of the financial sector has compelled Islamic banks to explore advanced technological solutions that align with Shariah principles while addressing modern operational demands. This paper aims to emphasize the growing importance of artificial intelligence, encompassing both centralized and decentralized models, and to examine its role in improving the performance, resilience, and service quality of Islamic banking institutions. The study highlights the defining characteristics of centralized and decentralized AI systems and explores the opportunities they offer Islamic banks in optimizing operations, improving customer engagement, and sustaining competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market environment. Furthermore, the paper underscores the importance of integrating blockchain technology with AI to enhance transparency, security, and trust in banking operations. It recommends that Islamic banks intensify their adoption of AI applications through the development of robust digital infrastructure, continuous staff training, and the implementation of comprehensive measures to ensure data security, privacy protection, and transaction transparency. In addition, the study calls upon supervisory and regulatory authorities, particularly central banks and related institutions, to establish effective governance frameworks, regulatory standards, and ethical guidelines to oversee the responsible and Shariah-compliant use of artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies in Islamic banking systems.
Artificial intelligence; blockchain technology; Islamic banks; Islamic financial institutions