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
Revision Practices and Self-Regulated Learning in Collaborative Digital Writing: Implications for ESL Writing Development
Abstract This study examined the role of revision practices and self-regulated learning in collaborative digital writing among ESL learners. Previous studies on collaborative writing have largely focused on interaction patterns and writing outcomes, while limited attention has been given to learners’ revision behavior and reflective learning strategies in digital environments. Using a mixed-methods quasi-experimental design, the study investigated how collaborative revision and self-regulated learning contributed to writing development. Data were collected through pre-test and post-test writing tasks, revision histories, learner journals, rubric-based self-assessment forms, and semi-structured interviews. The findings showed that collaborative digital writing improved learners’ organization, coherence, vocabulary use, grammatical accuracy, and overall writing quality. Learners engaged in various forms of revision, including surface-level revisions, lexical changes, meaning-level revisions, and organizational restructuring. The findings also indicated that planning, monitoring, reflection, and evaluation supported writing improvement. The study highlights the importance of reflective revision and learner autonomy in digital collaborative writing settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 AL-HAYAT Research Journal (AHRJ) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The standard of verification of news in the field of Hadith and its contemporary significance
In today's era, the exchange and transmission of information has become very easy, because of which, sometimes, attention is not paid to verifying the news. Similarly, sometimes anti-national elements spread false news to fulfil their nefarious purposes. In Islamic history, the high standard of the verification of Hadith remained in every period until the compilation of Hadith. The incidents of the verification of Hadith by the Rightly Guided Caliphs during the era of the Companions are well known. To deal with this problem of fake news, we find the principles of hadith verification, which can be used as a basis to verify the news and deal with the important problem of the present era. These principles are known in the sciences of Hadith as “Dirayat-e-Hadith”. In this article, the principles of news verification in the Hadith will be mentioned, and their importance in the present era will be discussed.
Language of Stress: A Corpus-Based Study to Detect Early Signs of Suicide Through Lexical Choice
Suicide represents one of the most devastating and preventable causes of premature death globally, yet its early detection remains stubbornly elusive. This study advances the hypothesis that language specifically the spontaneous lexical choices individuals make in everyday written and digital discourse constitutes one of the most sensitive and accessible markers of suicidal ideation. We employ corpus-based methodologies to conduct a systematic, quantitative investigation of how the written language of individuals experiencing suicidal ideation differs from that of a matched non-suicidal population. A purpose-built Suicide Discourse Corpus (SDC) of approximately 452,000 tokens was compiled from four heterogeneous sources: anonymized crisis helpline transcripts, Reddit posts from mental health disclosure communities, published first-person narratives of suicidal crises, and archival farewell notes. A Matched Control Corpus (MCC) of 449,800 tokens from general online discourse was constructed as a baseline. Analytical methods include keyness analysis (log-likelihood, G²), semantic domain profiling using the UCREL Semantic Analysis System (USAS), collocational analysis (Mutual Information scoring), and frequency analysis of grammatical and functional-word categories. Findings reveal a statistically robust lexical signature in suicidal discourse marked by: (a) dramatically elevated pain, suffering, and death-related vocabulary; (b) absolutist and negation-heavy language reflecting cognitive constriction; (c) a depletion of future-oriented temporal reference and positive evaluative terms; (d) heightened first-person singular pronoun use alongside reduced social solidarity vocabulary; and (e) distinctive collocational frames encoding inescapable, internally directed suffering. These patterns align with major psychological theories of suicide including Shneidman's psychache theory, Joiner's Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS), and Beck's cognitive model of hopelessness. Implications for the design of NLP-assisted early-warning systems, ethical governance of mental health corpus research, and future multilingual extension of this work are discussed at length.
The Role of Maulana Khalil Ahmad Saharanpuri’s Book Bazl al-Majhud fi Hall Abi Dawud in the Explanation of the Term Mukhtalif al-Hadith
This research examines the scholarly contribution of Maulana Khalil Ahmad Saharanpuri in explaining and resolving the concept of Mukhtalif al-Hadith through his renowned commentary Bazl al-Majhud fi Hall Abi Dawud. The study highlights the methodological principles adopted by the author in reconciling apparently contradictory narrations, interpreting Hadith texts, and addressing juristic and theological differences among scholars. It further explores how Saharanpuri employed classical principles of Hadith criticism, contextual interpretation, and comparative analysis to remove ambiguities and harmonize narrations in Sunan Abi Dawud. The research also evaluates the academic significance of Bazl al-Majhud in the field of Hadith studies and its impact on later scholarly discussions regarding contradictory traditions. Through an analytical and descriptive approach, the study demonstrates that the work is an important contribution to the science of Mukhtalif al-Hadith and reflects the depth of Indo-Islamic Hadith scholarship.
Social Justice in the Prophetic SeerahPrinciples and Requirements
The concept of social justice occupies a central position in Islamic teachings and is comprehensively presented in the Seerah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Before Islam, the notion of justice was largely confined to legal and judicial matters, where rulers and judges merely decided disputes based on evidence and testimony. However, Islam introduced a broader and more comprehensive system of justice that encompasses not only the judicial sphere but also the moral, social, economic, and collective dimensions of human life. This study examines the principles and requirements of social justice in the light of the Prophetic Seerah and highlights their contemporary significance. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ established a society founded upon equality, human dignity, mutual responsibility, and the protection of rights. Unlike modern materialistic approaches that emphasize individual rights while often neglecting responsibilities toward others, the Prophetic model trained individuals to fulfill the rights of fellow human beings willingly and sincerely. The paper argues that the implementation of the Prophetic teachings on social justice can play a vital role in addressing contemporary social conflicts, inequality, hatred, and unrest. Furthermore, these teachings provide a practical framework for establishing peace, harmony, and collective welfare in modern societies. The research concludes that the Prophetic vision of social justice offers a universal and timeless solution for creating a balanced and peaceful human civilization.
Copyright (c) 2024 AL-HAYAT Research Journal (AHRJ) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RUSSIA’S GRAND STRATEGY IN THE POST-2022 INTERNATIONAL ORDER: A NEOCLASSICAL REALIST ANALYSIS
This study applies the neoclassical realist (NCR) framework to examine Russia's grand strategy following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Bridging systemic incentives and unit-level intervening variables including state-society relations, executive autonomy, strategic culture, and elite perception NCR illuminates why Russian foreign policy has been simultaneously structurally motivated and tactically dysfunctional. The paper argues that Russia pursues a five-pronged revisionist grand strategy encompassing military force, energy statecraft, informational warfare, Eurasian institutional consolidation, and nuclear signaling, filtered through a Putinist ideational lens that systematically misread both Ukrainian resilience and Western cohesion. While Russia achieved partial success in restructuring global alignments through the BRICS-plus framework and Global South neutrality, its core strategic objectives preventing NATO enlargement and subordinating Ukraine have been decisively frustrated. The paper concludes that Russia faces an accelerating capability-aspiration gap, rendering its grand strategy structurally unsustainable over the medium term without significant systemic shifts.
Community Perceptions of Climatic Hazards in District Nushki, Balochistan
Climate change has become one of the major environmental and socio-economic challenges in developing countries, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. District Nushki in Balochistan is highly vulnerable to climatic hazards because of water scarcity, frequent droughts, increasing temperatures, and dependence on climate-sensitive livelihoods such as agriculture and livestock. The present study examines community perceptions regarding climatic hazards and explores the socio-economic impacts of climate change on local communities in Nushki. The study also investigates adaptation and resilience strategies adopted by households to cope with climatic changes. The quantitative research design was used in this study, and data were collected through household surveys. The findings reveal that local communities have experienced significant changes in rainfall patterns, increasing temperatures, drought conditions, declining agricultural productivity, livestock losses, and water shortages during recent years. The study concludes that climate change has intensified community -level vulnerabilities in District Nushki and there is a strong need for community-based adaptation strategies, awareness programs, improved water management systems, and sustainable policy interventions to strengthen resilience among local populations.
Decentralization in Theory and Practice:A Historical and Critical Comparison of Pakistan’sLocal Government Ordinances of 1979 and 2001
This article examines the two most consequential pieces of local government legislation in Pakistan’s post-independence history: the Local Government Ordinance (LGO) of 1979, promulgated under General Zia-ul-Haq, and the Local Government Ordinance of 2001, promulgated under General Pervez Musharraf. By situating both ordinances within their respective political, historical, and ideological contexts, the article offers a comparative critique of their structural designs, stated objectives, and practical outcomes. It argues that despite markedly different rhetorical frameworks—the 1979 Ordinance emphasizing administrative efficiency and the 2001 Ordinance championing grassroots empowerment—both instruments ultimately served to consolidate authoritarian power rather than to transfer meaningful governance authority to elected local bodies. The article traces the colonial roots of local government in the subcontinent, analyses the structural provisions of each ordinance, and assesses their respective legacies through the lenses of fiscal autonomy, political decentralization, and democratic accountability. The analysis traces continuities and ruptures between the two frameworks, assesses their developmental and democratic consequences, and situates them within broader comparative and theoretical debates about decentralization in the Global South.
A Study to Focus on Collaborated Strategies Responding to Drug Abuse Situation in Pakistan
This research article focuses on the collaborated strategies responding to drug abuse conditions in Pakistan. Drug abuse is a grave problem severely affecting the Pakistani society. There is a dire need to develop significant strategies in order to curb drug abuse problem from Pakistan society. For this research article, the content analysis method has been utilized. In addition, this research article relies upon secondary data.
Ṣūfī Discussions in “Al-Itqān fī Ulūm ul-Qurān”
The Holy Qur’an is an infinite ocean of knowledge, wisdom, and profound meanings. Since the time it was revealed to the Prophet, Muhammad ﷺ, scholars have continuously endeavored to unravel its truths, explore its concepts and applications, seek out its wonders and divine injunctions. Yet, to this day, no one has ever been able to claim that they have comprehended all the depths and dimensions of this boundless sea of wisdom. In the course of history, there are certain works that stand as definitive references in their respective fields. Al-Itqān fī Ulūm ul-Qurān is among such masterpieces. It is renowned for its remarkable comprehensiveness and encyclopedic character, encompassing the full spectrum of Qurʾānic sciences. Based upon and extracted from, synthesizing, all the major works that preceded it, the author produced a new and unparalleled composition a true phenomenal in the field. Although its central subject is Ulūm al-Qurān (the science of the Qurān), However, the author’s inclination towards Taṣawwuf naturally found expression within it. Consequently, the work contains significant discussions related to Taṣawwuf, reflecting the author’s spiritual insight alongside his scholarly rigor.
The Reflection of Political, Social, and Economic Issues in the Short Stories of Zahida Hina
This research article offers a profound analytical study of the thematic, aesthetic, and ideological dimensions of Zahida Hina’s fictional oeuvre. Deviating from traditional modes of storytelling, Hina seamlessly intertwines her narrative art with a global consciousness and international political acumen. By establishing an organic link between history, the present, and the future, she seeks the reclamation of distorted historical truths through literature. The study delineates how her short stories courageously interrogate imperialist contradictions, the severe socio-psychological impacts of war on women and marginalized strata, the trauma of migration, and the atrocities of authoritarian regimes. The article demonstrates that her literary trajectory evolves from romantic pessimism into a robust paradigm of intellectual maturity and resistance literature. Ultimately, her fearless characters refuse escapism, establishing a sustainable intellectual discourse against exploitative global and domestic structures.
Zahida Hina, Urdu Fiction, Short Story, Political Consciousness, Resistance Literature, Historical Reclamation, Socio-Economic Exploitation, Psychological Impact of War, Trauma of Partition
Sociological Study of Ali Akbar Natiq's Novel Writing
This research paper presents a comprehensive sociological study of contemporary Urdu fiction through an analytical critique of Ali Akbar Natiq’s seminal novels, Noolakhi Kothi and Kumari Wala. Utilizing a realistic narrative approach and a sharp stylistic execution termed "Nok Nigari", Natiq meticulously uncovers the structural injustices, class struggles, and institutional decay within the Subcontinent, particularly Punjab. Through Noolakhi Kothi, the study explores the sociological impacts of post-colonial transitions, examining how colonial stratagems transformed into modern tools of exploitation wielded by a newly emerged indigenous elite. Shifting to Kumari Wala, the paper analyzes contemporary societal degeneration from 1980 to 2020, focusing on systemic corruption, feudal tyranny, bureaucratic moral decay, and religious exploitation. By stripping away romanticized depictions of rural life, this paper highlights Natiq’s profound ability to mirror the eroding foundational human values under social pressures, positioning his work as a vital sociological document of regional socio-political evolution.
Ali Akbar Natiq, Sociological Analysis, Urdu Fiction, Post-Colonialism, Structural Injustice, Feudal Tyranny, Socio-Political Realism
A Research and Analytical Study of Ijtihād-Based Differences among the Imams of Islamic Jurisprudence: Legal Status, Causes, Underlying Wisdoms, and Merits
This study presents a critical and analytical examination of ijtihād-based differences among the classical Imams of Islamic jurisprudence and explores their legal status, underlying causes, wisdoms, and merits. Juristic disagreement (ikhtilāf) is not a sign of contradiction within Islamic law, but rather a natural outcome of scholarly effort in interpreting the Qurʾān and Sunnah where texts allow multiple meanings or lack explicit detail. The research identifies key causes of these differences, including variations in textual interpretation, principles of ḥadīth authentication, methodological diversity in legal reasoning, and the influence of socio-cultural contexts. It further highlights the wisdom behind such diversity, emphasizing its role in facilitating legal flexibility, removing hardship, and accommodating changing circumstances across time and place. The study also discusses the positive contributions of juristic disagreement to intellectual development, preservation of evidences, and promotion of tolerance and mutual respect among scholars. Concluding that these differences represent a source of strength rather than division, the paper underscores their enduring relevance in addressing contemporary legal and social challenges within the framework of Sharīʿah.
Ijtihād, Juristic Differences, Islamic Jurisprudence, Legal Status, Causes of Ikhtilāf, Wisdom and Merits
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.
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.