Al-Marjān International Research Journal of Islamic & Religious Studies is a quarterly, double-blind peer-reviewed journal published in Arabic, Urdu, and English by the Al-Marjān Research Center, Lahore, Pakistan. It follows an Open Access Policy and provides a multidisciplinary platform for scholarly research in Islamic and Religious Studies. The journal publishes original articles and reviews in areas such as Qur’anic Studies, Hadith, Theology, Islamic Law, Ethics, Comparative Religion, History, Islamic Economics, and contemporary issues—promoting academic excellence and global intellectual exchange.
Al-Marjān Research Center, Lahore, Pakistan.
(Social degradation in modern society: an analytical study and Islamic principles for its solution)
Social decline refers to the deterioration of societal values, structures, institutions and relationships within a society. These are essential for a healthy and functioning community. The primary causes of this decline include moral and Ethical Degradation, weakening of family system, Corruption and poor Governance, Inequality and Economic Injustice, media misuse and cultural Invasion and lack of community Engagement. These factors collectively erode social cohesion, resulting in increased crime, loss of trust, mental health issues and cultural identity crises. These challenges not only affect individuals but also disrupt the stability and harmony of entire societies. In this context, Islam offers a comprehensive and timeless framework for addressing social problems through the guidance of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This study explores the root causes of modern social problems and evaluates Islamic teachings as solutions. The research highlights how principles such as moral and religious education, compassion, accountability, family structure, media responsibility and community welfare play a vital role in restoring ethical and social balance. The paper concludes that a return to Qur’anic ethics and prophetic guidance provides sustainable and humane answers to contemporary social crises. Moreover a unified effort from Governments, educators, religious leaders and civil society is effective to reverse the trends of decline morally strong society.
Deterioration, societal values, weakening of family, Inequality, Islam, social problems, solutions, religious education.
Principles of custom in the era of the Prophet (peace be upon him)
This study examines the position and application of 'Urf (customary law) during the Prophetic era (peace be upon him), highlighting how Islamic law integrated pre-Islamic Arabian customs without compromising its core principles. While the Quran and Sunnah serve as primary sources, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) adopted a nuanced approach of gradual reform rather than abrupt abolition of existing social structures. Three core principles governed the treatment of customs: (1) Retention (Imda) of practices aligned with justice, equity, and Tawheed, such as certain trade methods (e.g., Mudarabah and Salam, reformed for fairness), hospitality, measurements (Sa’ and Mudd), blood money (Diyat), and bridal dower (Mahr); (2) Reform (Islah) of oppressive or superstitious traditions, including modifications to inheritance, adoption, marriage customs, and guardianship to promote ethical balance and women's rights; and (3) Abolition (Ibtal) of practices violating fundamental Islamic tenets and human dignity, like Riba (usury), gambling, female infanticide, and polytheistic rituals. Positive pre-Islamic virtues—such as generosity, honoring pledges, self-respect, patience, and simplicity—were preserved and elevated, as exemplified in the Prophet's (ﷺ) approval of Hatim al-Tai's hospitality and retention of attire like Imama, Qalansuwa, Burnous, and Khimar (with Islamic refinements for modesty). Familial customs like Walimah were encouraged as Sunnah. By recognizing 'Urf as a secondary source subordinate to Nass (textual evidence), the Prophetic methodology established the legal maxim "Al-'Adah Muhakkamah" (Custom is Authoritative), enabling Islam's adaptability across cultures and times while safeguarding its divine essence. This approach underscores Islam's socio-economic and ethical compatibility with human societies.
Urf (Customary Law), Prophetic Methodology, Legal Reform (Islah), Al-Adah Muhakkamah, Socio-Economic Ethics.
Contemporary Issues of the Muslim Ummah, the Challenges It Faces, and Their Remedies: A Comprehensive Study in the Light of the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)
The Muslim Ummah is currently facing multidimensional challenges that threaten its ideological, political, economic, and social existence. These challenges can broadly be classified into internal and external dimensions, which are deeply interconnected and cannot be addressed in isolation. External challenges include global political dominance, military interventions, economic exploitation, and ideological manipulation by powerful Western nations, particularly after major global events such as the Gulf War and 9/11. Islam has been deliberately misrepresented through media propaganda, where concepts such as Jihad are wrongly associated with terrorism, creating fear and misunderstanding among future generations. Alongside these pressures, the Muslim world also suffers from severe internal challenges, including political instability, lack of unity, intellectual stagnation, moral decline, and self-imposed weakness. Historical analysis reveals that the decline of Muslim societies was not solely due to foreign aggression, but largely resulted from internal disunity, loss of purpose, and departure from Islamic principles. This paper argues that blaming external forces alone is insufficient unless the Muslim Ummah engages in sincere self-accountability and reform. In this critical historical phase, the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) provides a comprehensive framework for revival, emphasizing faith, unity, moral integrity, strategic wisdom, and reliance on Allah. The study concludes that the future of humanity and the Muslim Ummah depends upon reviving the spirit of Prophetic guidance and transforming it into practical action at both individual and collective levels.
Muslim Ummah, Internal Challenges, External Challenges, Global Hegemony, Islamic Identity, Seerah of the Prophet (ﷺ), Revival
Dr. Tahira Firdous (Corresponding Author)
Principles of Political Leadership in the Light of the Qur’an and Sunnah: An Analytical and Comparative Study of Islamic Understanding and Modern Political Science
In Islamic thought, political leadership is not a peripheral issue but a fundamental communal necessity and religious obligation. Islam views humanity not merely as spiritual beings but as socio-political entities requiring organized leadership. The Qur'an and Sunnah frame leadership in terms of trust (amanah), responsibility, and accountability rather than power, dominance, or privileges. This aligns with modern political science's emphasis on public trust, institutional order, rule of law, and public welfare, creating a meaningful dialogue between Islamic political philosophy and contemporary theories. Historical evidence from Islamic history demonstrates that adherence to Qur'anic and Prophetic principles fostered justice, stability, and moral superiority, while deviation led to political decline, intellectual fragmentation, and social injustice. This study aims to elucidate through in-depth scholarly analysis that the Islamic principles of political leadership are not only religious values but also guiding norms for modern statecraft. The paper is structured around six key discussions: leadership as trust rooted in Qur'anic foundations (khilafah and amanah); obedience to leadership within Shari'ah limits, preventing despotism; shura (consultation) as a practical decision-making mechanism akin to participatory governance; justice ('adl) as the essence of leadership, paralleling social justice and equity; merit, competence, and knowledge as prerequisites, reflecting meritocracy; and ethical leadership exemplified by the Prophetic model (Sira Nabawiyya). By comparing these with concepts like limited government, deliberative democracy, and institutional accountability, the study argues that Islamic leadership principles complement and enrich modern democratic values, offering timeless guidance for just and effective governance in contemporary contexts.
Islamic Leadership, Trust (Amanah), Shura (Consultation), Justice ('Adl), Competence/Merit (Ahliyyah), Modern Political Theories
Dr. Syed Muhammad Haroon Agha (Corresponding Author)
Women’s Economic Rights in the Abrahamic Religions and Their Contemporary Applications: A Comparative Analysis
This study explores the economic rights of women within the three Abrahamic religions، Islam, Christianity, and Judaism، and examines their contemporary applications through a comparative lens. Each tradition provides a distinct framework for women’s financial autonomy, rooted in sacred texts, legal interpretations, and ethical principles. In Islam, the Qur’an and Hadith grant women independent financial identity through inheritance rights, property ownership, marital dower (mahr), and maintenance (nafaqah), combining legal entitlement with ethical responsibility. Christianity emphasizes spiritual equality and moral accountability, linking economic participation to ethical behavior and societal welfare rather than purely legal rights. Judaism establishes structured legal protection through mechanisms such as the Ketubah and inheritance laws, ensuring women’s financial security within familial and communal frameworks. The comparative analysis highlights both convergence and divergence across traditions. Commonalities include recognition of women as economic actors and the integration of rights with responsibilities. Differences emerge in scope, application, and historical context, reflecting varying social, familial, and legal structures. Contemporary societies have further reshaped these rights through secular legal systems, economic modernization, and global gender equity movements, creating diverse practical implications for women’s economic empowerment. The study demonstrates that religious texts and ethical doctrines continue to influence contemporary policy and social attitudes toward women’s financial autonomy. It argues that harmonizing sacred principles with modern legal and economic frameworks can enhance gender-equitable participation in economic life. Ultimately, understanding women’s economic rights in the Abrahamic religions requires a multidimensional approach that considers legal, moral, spiritual, and social dimensions, highlighting the enduring relevance of religious teachings in contemporary contexts.
Women’s economic rights, Abrahamic religions, Islamic inheritance, Christian ethical principles, Jewish financial law, comparative religious study, contemporary applications, gender equity
Dr. Hafiz Zahid Latif (Corresponding Author)
Modernism and Feminist Movements: An Islamic Analysis
This study examines Modernism and Feminism from an Islamic perspective, focusing on their intellectual foundations and socio-cultural impact. Modernism, shaped by the Renaissance and Enlightenment, emphasized human reason, materialism, and individual autonomy over divine authority, thereby laying the groundwork for secular and feminist ideologies .Feminist movements, while advancing critical rights such as education, suffrage, and economic participation, often promote principles that conflict with Islamic teachings by advocating absolute equality and unbounded autonomy, challenging women’s natural, familial, and ethical roles. The research traces the historical evolution of Feminism through its four waves and highlights socio-economic and cultural factors, including the Industrial Revolution, that facilitated its rise in the West .Contrasting Western feminist thought with the Islamic conception of womanhood, this study underscores that Islam upholds dignity, moral responsibility, familial complementarity, and spiritual fulfillment. The Islamic framework provides a balanced model of freedom and honor, preserving ethical and spiritual boundaries while ensuring women’s rights, offering a coherent alternative to secular feminist paradigms.
Modernism, Feminism, Islamic Perspective, Gender Equality, Women’s Rights, Secularism, Family Structure, Islamic Ethics, Western Thought, Social Transformation.
The Concept of Humility in the Quran: A Study of Its Religious and Social Dimensions
This research paper explores the comprehensive concept of humility (Tawāḍu) in the light of the Quran, highlighting its religious and social dimensions. Humility is a fundamental moral and spiritual quality that protects individuals from pride, self-conceit, and arrogance, and is highly valued by Allah. Religiously, humility brings a servant closer to Allah, enhances sincerity in worship, and serves as a hallmark of true faith. The paper emphasizes that acts of worship—such as prayer, supplication, charity, and remembrance of Allah—require inner humility for acceptance and spiritual efficacy. Socially, humility fosters respect, tolerance, compassion, and cooperation among individuals, reducing conflicts, social divisions, and arrogance, thereby promoting communal harmony. The study adopts descriptive, analytical, inductive, and thematic research methodologies, examining Quranic verses, linguistic sources, and classical exegeses to elucidate the multifaceted nature of humility. Key findings highlight the significance of humility in personal conduct, interactions with fellow believers, respect toward parents, demeanor, preaching, and the pursuit of knowledge. The paper underscores that humility is not mere modesty but a comprehensive ethical principle shaping a morally balanced, spiritually aware, and socially constructive personality. In contemporary times, where knowledge, power, and wealth often lead to pride, humility emerges as an essential virtue for personal reform and societal equilibrium. This study demonstrates that Tawāḍuʿ is central to individual spiritual development and social ethics, offering practical guidance for worship, scholarship, interpersonal relations, and religious propagation. By integrating Qur’anic insights with practical implications, the research affirms that humility is indispensable for cultivating piety, achieving social harmony, and sustaining moral and ethical balance in modern society.
Humility, Tawāḍu, Quran, Worship, Social Ethics, Arrogance, Sincerity, Islamic Personality, Contemporary Relevance.
The Methodology of Encouragement (Targhīb) and Warning (Tarhīb) in the Holy Qur'an: A Research Study of Moral Guidance, Lessons, and Reform through Qur'anic Narratives (Qiṣaṣ al-Qur'ān)
The Holy Qur'an, as the final divine revelation, stands as the ultimate code of life, guiding humanity from spiritual darkness to the light of truth and righteousness. Its miraculous style of expression is perfectly attuned to human intellect, emotion, and aesthetic taste, creating an intimate and personal connection with every reader—each admonition penetrates the heart, evoking the feeling that Allah is directly addressing the individual soul. Among the diverse methods of da‘wah (invitation to Islam) adopted by the Qur'an in consideration of human nature, the dual approach of targhīb (encouragement/inspiration) and tarhīb (warning/deterrence) holds central importance. Targhīb inspires obedience to divine commands by highlighting Allah’s pleasure, mercy, forgiveness, and the eternal delights of Paradise, while tarhīb deters sin, oppression, and disbelief through vivid descriptions of divine wrath and the torments of Hellfire. A major portion of this balanced methodology is realized through Qiṣaṣ al-Qur'ān—the narratives of past prophets, nations, and communities. These stories are not exaggerated historical accounts but are selectively and purposefully narrated to address the needs of the time, offering relevant lessons, arguments, and advice. The Qur'an employs these accounts to enable humanity to learn from history, avoid repeating the errors of past nations, adopt virtuous deeds, and abstain from evil. Every narrative embeds profound admonitions (ʿibrah) and practical moral lessons that awaken conscience, foster spiritual reform, and fulfill the purpose of human creation—worship and obedience to Allah. Prophets were commissioned as bearers of glad tidings (mubashshirīn) and warners (mundhirīn), combining hope with fear to awaken indifferent hearts and guide societies. Supported by prophetic traditions and classical scholarship, this Qur'anic approach remains a timeless and highly effective model of da‘wah, moral education, spiritual motivation, and societal reform for all eras.
Guidance · Targhīb & Tarhīb · Qur'anic Narratives · Lessons & Admonitions · Prophetic Stories · Moral Reform.
Quranic Foundations of Fiqh al-Seerah and its Relevance in the Context of Contemporary Social Transformations: An Analytical Study
This study investigates the Qur’anic foundations of Fiqh al-Seerah — the juristic and methodological understanding of the Prophetic biography (Seerah) — and assesses its relevance amid rapid contemporary social transformations. While traditional Seerah scholarship has primarily emphasized historical narration, devotional admiration, or biographical detail, Fiqh al-Seerah approaches the Prophetic life as a dynamic source of normative principles, ethical frameworks, socio-political guidance, and practical models for individual and collective reform. The research argues that the Qur’an constitutes the primary epistemological and normative source for interpreting the Seerah, transforming it from a mere historical record into a living paradigm of social renewal rooted in tawḥīd, justice, human dignity, moral responsibility, and community cohesion. Through a thematic and analytical examination of selected Qur’anic verses concerning the Prophetic mission, social justice, governance, conflict resolution, ethical reform, and nation-building, the paper demonstrates how the Qur’an frames the Seerah as a transformative project designed to restructure society on divine principles. The study further addresses pressing modern challenges — including secularization, ethical relativism, social fragmentation, governance crises, moral decay, and identity confusion — and evaluates how a Qur’an-centered Fiqh al-Seerah provides coherent, structured responses. Methodologically, it combines thematic Qur’anic exegesis, principles of uṣūl al-fiqh (Islamic legal theory), and contemporary socio-ethical analysis. The conclusion affirms that grounding Fiqh al-Seerah in Qur’anic principles enables Muslims to engage constructively with modernity, offering not only moral inspiration but also a comprehensive framework for ethical policy-making, social cohesion, civilizational balance, and sustainable reform in a rapidly changing world.
Fiqh al-Seerah · Qur’anic Foundations · Social Transformations · Prophetic Model · Islamic Social Ethics · Normative Framework.
Manifestations of National and Nationalist Consciousness in Ahmad Shawqi's Resistance Poetry (An Objective and Artistic Study)
“Manifestations of National and Pan-Arab Consciousness in the Resistance Poetry of Ahmad Shawqi”A Discourse-Analytical and Ideological Critique This study employs discourse analysis and ideological critique to examine the construction of national and pan-Arab consciousness in the resistance poetry of Ahmad Shawqi. Rather than reading Shawqi’s verse as a direct historical response, the research approaches his poetry as a discursive field in which power, identity, and cultural authority are negotiated through aesthetic form. The poem is treated as an ideological site where language functions not merely as representation but as intervention, actively contesting colonial narratives and reconfiguring collective consciousness. Through close analysis of rhetorical structures, symbolic systems, and modes of address, the study demonstrates how Shawqi’s poetic discourse produces meanings of belonging, resistance, and moral legitimacy. Attention is given to the ways rhythm, imagery, and intertextual memory operate as mechanisms of ideological positioning, transforming aesthetic expression into a form of cultural struggle. The research further situates Shawqi’s discourse within its socio-political context, revealing how inherited cultural memory is strategically mobilized to challenge hegemonic power and cultural marginalization. The study concludes that Shawqi’s resistance poetry constitutes a coherent ideological project in which aesthetic practice and political consciousness converge, positioning poetic language as a critical force in shaping collective identity and oppositional thought.
Discourse analysis; ideological critique; resistance poetry; national and pan-Arab consciousness; cultural hegemony; poetic discourse; collective identity.
Comparative study of Freedom of Expression: b/w Islam & the West
This paper examines freedom of expression as a core human right, rooted in the negative concept of freedom—absence of arbitrary compulsion or control—encompassing freedoms of thought, speech, press, assembly, worship, movement, property use, and occupation. It distinguishes "freedom" and "liberty": freedom, derived from Old English roots implying connection and belonging (akin to "friend"), is more concrete and relational; liberty, from Latin "libertatem" via Old French, connotes separation, independence, and release from bondage, often tied to state-individual relations. Scholars like David Hackett Fischer note their original opposition—liberty as separation, freedom as connection—though they are frequently used interchangeably. Definitions from Michel Verpeaux emphasize expression without arbitrary interference, while Jack Donnelly frames it as an obligation to truth. In contrast, Islamic interpretations, drawing from the Quran and Hadith, view rights as divinely granted, not human-made. Quranic examples include angels' objection during Adam's creation (Al-Baqarah 2:30-33), tolerated without penalty; verification of news from unreliable sources (Al-Hujurat 49:6); and no compulsion in religion (Al-Baqarah 2:256). Islamic freedom promotes enjoining good, sincere advice, and consultation but restricts falsehood, defamation, sedition, and harm to honor or societal peace. Mystical views, such as Ibn Arabi's "perfect slavery" to God, see true freedom in submission with accountability for choices. The paper contrasts unrestricted Western models with Islam's balanced approach, integrating individual autonomy, moral responsibility, and communal welfare under divine guidance, offering a nuanced framework that safeguards truth, dignity, and harmony.
Freedom of Expression, Liberty vs Freedom, Islamic Perspective, Quranic Principles, Limits and Restrictions, Human Rights in Islam.
Titles of the Rightly Guided Caliphs with Special Reference to Shaykhayn (R.A) : A Quranic, Hadith and Historical Study
Allah Almighty sent the Prophets (peace be upon them) for the guidance of humanity and completed the chain of Prophethood by declaring Muhammad ﷺ as the Seal of the Prophets. After the Prophet ﷺ, the Muslim Ummah was blessed with the leadership of the Companions (رضي الله عنهم), whom Allah Almighty directly described in His Book as the best of nations. Among the Companions, the most distinguished status belongs to the Rightly Guided Caliphs (Khulafāʾ al-Rāshidūn), whose caliphate was explicitly characterized by the Prophet ﷺ as being based on guidance and righteousness. Among these caliphs, Abu Bakr al-Ṣiddīq (رضي الله عنه) and ʿUmar al-Fārūq (رضي الله عنه) hold a particularly prominent position and are collectively known as al-Shaykhayn. They were not only superior in age and rank but also served as leaders of the Ummah in intellectual, moral, and political domains. Their titles are preserved in the Qur’an, Hadith, and the traditions of the early generations, reflecting their character, decisions, and spiritual stature. This article presents a critical and analytical study of these titles to demonstrate that they are not merely honorary expressions but rather articulate the fundamental principles of Islamic leadership.
Caliphs, Shaykhayn, Abu bakr, Umar, Alqab, merely honorary expressions, rather articulate
Abu Hurara Mehmood (Corresponding Author)
“Jewish Texts as Sources of the Qur’anic Narratives: A Historical and Critical Study of Abraham Geiger’s Arguments and Their Subsequent Developments.”
Orientalist critiques of divine revelation in Islam primarily challenge the supernatural and transcendent nature of the Quran, arguing that its descent in human language and specific linguistic forms defies rational and logical principles, as an infinite divine reality cannot be confined within finite human words. Proponents of this intellectual school, exemplified by Abraham Geiger, insist that the Quranic text is not direct inspiration but the outcome of a conscious or subconscious intellectual exercise aimed at reinterpreting prior religious traditions in a new linguistic guise. Geiger's foundational work, "Was hat Mohammed aus dem Judenthume aufgenommen?" (What Did Muhammad Borrow from Judaism?, 1833), marks a pivotal shift in 19th-century religious studies, positing that the Quran extensively draws from Jewish sources, including rabbinic literature like the Midrash Rabbi Eliezer. For instance, he claims the miracle of the "white hand" (yad bayda) of Moses in the Quran originates from Jewish midrashic narratives rather than original revelation. This argument extends to linguistic structures, asserting that words are mere products of human societal evolution and cognitive development, rendering the idea of God communicating through specific phonetic and linguistic units scientifically untenable. Furthermore, through deductive logic, Orientalists demonstrate that the text's stylistic features and historical anecdotes are human constructs derived from the contemporary intellectual and religious milieu, intended to forge a novel socio-religious order. Such portrayals reduce revelation to a psychological state or human creation, influencing modern Quranic studies by emphasizing cultural borrowings over divine origin. This analysis underscores the clash between empirical rationalism and faith-based interpretations, fostering deeper comparative insights into Abrahamic religions and their intertextual dynamics.
Abraham Geiger, St. Clair Tisdall, Ibn Warraq, Quranic Sources, Midrash, Targum Yerushalmi, Historical Criticism, Intertextuality
An Analytical Study of Origin and Evolution of the Sufi Tradition in Azad Kashmir and its Socio-Intellectual Impacts
This research explores the historical emergence, progression, and socio-intellectual contributions of the Sufi tradition in Azad Kashmir. Islam acknowledges that human beings possess both material and spiritual needs, and after the completion of Prophethood, the responsibility of spiritual and moral guidance was inherited by the followers of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), among whom the Sufis played an essential role in nurturing religious consciousness and ethical behavior in society. The study employs an analytical research methodology to examine when and how Sufism entered Azad Kashmir, the prominent Sufi orders involved, and their missionary strategies. The findings reveal that various Sufi orders—including Qadriya, Naqshbandiya, Suhrawardiya, Chishtiya, Kubrawiya, Shattariya, and the indigenous Rishi order—shaped the religious landscape of the region and contributed to cultural refinement, communal harmony, and spiritual development. The research highlights that renowned Sufi saints—such as Bulbul Shah, Mir Syed Ali Hamadani, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Rishi, Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, and later spiritual leaders of shrines in Bagh, Poonch, Kotli, and Mirpur, enhanced Islamic identity through preaching, education, social welfare, and character building. Their role extended beyond spiritual mentorship to include political guidance, economic improvement, conflict resolution, and the establishment of educational and religious institutions. Overall, the study concludes that Sufism played a pivotal role in shaping the sociocultural fabric of Azad Kashmir. The Sufi tradition not only strengthened Islamic faith but also fostered peace, tolerance, and moral uplift in the region, a legacy that continues to influence the values and identity of Kashmiri society today.
Sufism; Azad Kashmir; Sufi Orders; Social Impact; Spiritual Reform; Sufi Saints.
The Role of Ḥakīm al-Ummat Maulānā Ashraf ʿAlī Thānvi (RA) and His Authorized Successors (Khulafāʾ) in the Creation and Stabilization of Pakistan: A Historical and Analytical Study
The Pakistan Movement is generally associated with Allama Iqbal, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the Muslim League leadership. However, long before the formal articulation of the “Pakistan demand” in 1940, Ḥakīm al-Ummat Maulānā Ashraf ʿAlī Thānvi (1863–1943) had already conceptualized and publicly articulated the idea of a separate Islamic homeland for the Muslims of India as early as July 1928 during a historic meeting at Thāna Bhawan with Maulānā ʿAbd al-Mājid Daryābādī and others. He not only envisioned an independent Muslim state but also outlined its ideological foundations, governance structure, and the necessity of a central spiritual and political leadership (Imām). Despite remaining outwardly apolitical and focused on spiritual reformation, Maulānā Thānvi issued numerous fatāwā supporting the Pakistan Movement, encouraged his disciples to join it, and endured repeated life threats and assassination attempts from opponents. Many of his prominent khulafāʾ – including Maulānā Shabbīr ʿAlī Thānvi, Maulānā Zafar Aḥmad ʿUthmānī, Maulānā Muftī Muḥammad Shafīʿ, Maulānā Idrīs Kāndhlavī, and others – became active workers of the Muslim League, delivered speeches, mobilized masses, and played decisive roles in making Pakistan an Islamic welfare state after 1947 August 1947. This paper establishes through primary sources (fatāwā, letters, recorded conversations, and contemporary testimonies) that the ideological and spiritual groundwork for Pakistan was laid in the khānqāh of Thāna Bhawan much earlier than commonly acknowledged, proving that the Pakistan Movement was not merely a political struggle but also a deeply spiritual and reformative mission rooted in Deobandī–Thānvi thought.
Maulānā Ashraf ʿAlī Thānvi, Pakistan Movement, Khulafāʾ-e-Thānvi, Two-Nation Theory, Islamic State, Deoband
The story of Noah from Islamic & Biblical Perspective along with a Critical Study of its Text
The Book of Genesis, the first book of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament, is traditionally attributed to Prophet Moses (circa 1400 BCE) in Jewish and Christian traditions. Serving as the foundational text of the entire Bible, it narrates the origins of the universe, humanity, Sabbath, marriage, sin, redemption, and the chosen lineage leading to Israel. This research examines the historical emergence, oral and written transmission, and textual development of Genesis across major traditions: the Masoretic Text, Samaritan Pentateuch, and Septuagint, highlighting significant variants and historical-theological discrepancies. Special attention is devoted to the Flood narrative (Genesis 6–9) and its distinctive differences from the Qur’ānic account of Prophet Nūḥ (peace be upon him) presented primarily in Sūrahs Hūd, Nūḥ, and al-A‘rāf. While the Biblical account portrays a global flood, the survival of Noah’s entire family, and a universal covenant with all living creatures, the Qur’ān emphasizes Nūḥ’s prolonged prophetic mission of tawḥīd, the local or regional nature of the punishment, and the disbelief and drowning of one of Noah’s sons, and the salvation of only the believers. By employing textual criticism, comparative religion methodology, and insights from classical and modern scholarship, this study illuminates how editorial processes, diaspora experiences, and theological priorities shaped the Genesis text over centuries, and how the Qur’ānic retelling corrects and completes the narrative from an Islamic viewpoint, reaffirming the oneness of God and the consequences of rejecting prophethood.
Genesis, Noah’s Flood, Masoretic Text, Septuagint, Samaritan Pentateuch, Qur’ānic Narrative.
Numerical Balance in the Holy Qur’an: A Research Study on Word Repetition and Semantic Harmony
This study investigates the significance of numbers in the Qur’an and their role in conveying the principles of balance, harmony, and wisdom. By analyzing numerical patterns, repetitions, and symbolic use of numbers in the Qur’anic text, the research explores how these elements function as tools for ethical guidance, spiritual development, and cognitive organization. The study adopts a qualitative, analytical approach, examining selected examples where numerical structures enhance comprehension of divine messages and foster a sense of equilibrium in individual and communal life. It highlights the intricate connection between numerical symbolism and broader moral, social, and cosmic order, revealing that numbers in the Qur’an are not merely quantitative but carry profound qualitative and spiritual meanings. Findings demonstrate that understanding these numerical patterns enables believers to achieve deeper insight into divine guidance, promoting both personal discipline and collective harmony. Furthermore, the research underscores the didactic role of Qur’anic numbers in illustrating universal principles, supporting reflection, and encouraging practical application in daily life. By combining textual exegesis with interpretive analysis, the study provides a unique perspective on how numbers serve as a bridge between revelation and lived experience, offering insights into the Quranic worldview of balance and order.
Qur’an, numbers, numerical patterns, symbolic meanings, balance, harmony, spiritual guidance, ethical principles.
Harnessing Islamic Wisdom to Catalyze Sustainable Development
Industrialization-driven water pollution has become the most critical barrier to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and related targets under SDGs 12 and 13. This study establishes that Islamic eco-theology, articulated fourteen centuries ago in the Qurʾān and authentic Sunnah, offers a comprehensive, ethically robust, and spiritually motivating framework for sustainable water governance that significantly complements and strengthens contemporary global efforts. Core principles of Khilāfah (vicegerency), Amānah (trusteeship), Mīzān (ecological balance), ʿAdl wa Iḥsān (justice and excellence), and the categorical prohibition of Isrāf and Tabdhīr frame water as a sacred communal trust (niʿmah) rather than a commercial commodity. Drawing on primary Islamic sources and historical practices (Qanāts, Aflāj, Ḥima protected zones, and Waqf-funded water infrastructure), the paper demonstrates remarkable continuity between traditional Islamic water management and modern sustainable technologies. It further explores the transformative potential of Islamic finance — particularly green ṣukūk and waqf-based crowdfunding — in financing large-scale water treatment, recycling, and rainwater harvesting projects. While secular SDG frameworks provide technical targets, they often lack the spiritual and moral impetus that religious consciousness uniquely generates. The study identifies cultural, institutional, and perceptual barriers hindering integration of Islamic environmental ethics into national policies and proposes actionable pathways for policymakers, religious scholars, industries, and development agencies. Ultimately, a faith-sensitive, Qurʾān-centered paradigm offers a culturally resonant, ethically compelling, and practically viable roadmap toward equitable water security and a pollution-free planet for present and future generations.
Islamic Eco-theology, Water Conservation, Industrial Pollution, Sustainable Development Goals, Qurʾānic Environmental Ethics, Islamic Finance
Establishing Peace and Security among the Tribes of Balochistan: In the Light of the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province, is characterized by a tribal social structure deeply rooted in customary laws, honor codes, and regional traditions. While many of these tribal norms align with Islamic ethics, some diverge from Shari’ah principles, contributing to inter-tribal rivalries, vendettas, and social instability. Historically, colonial strategies and post-independence governance gaps exacerbated these conflicts, while modern challenges such as educational backwardness, economic disparities, and political uncertainty have further complicated the establishment of sustainable peace. This study explores the principles of peacebuilding among the tribes of Balochistan through the lens of the Seerah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The Prophetic model demonstrates how a society fragmented by tribalism, revenge culture, and socio-political divisions can be transformed through justice, consultation (Shura), mutual respect, and ethical governance. The research examines the Makkah period’s emphasis on patience and non-violent resistance, the Madinah Charter (Mithaq al-Madinah) as a paradigm of inter-tribal and interfaith agreements, the conquest of Makkah as an example of forgiveness-based reconciliation, and the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah as a model for strategic conflict resolution. By synthesizing these Prophetic principles with Balochistan’s tribal traditions—such as jirga consultation, honor (ghairat), and loyalty—the study proposes an ethically grounded and practically applicable framework for establishing sustainable peace. This approach not only addresses political and security dimensions but also emphasizes moral, social, and educational reforms as integral components of long-term stability. The research highlights that justice, mutual trust, and reconciliation, when institutionalized within tribal structures, can effectively reduce revenge cycles and foster social cohesion.
Balochistan, tribal society, peacebuilding, Seerah, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Mithaq al-Madinah, reconciliation, justice, social cohesion, customary law, non-violence, ethical governance
Research Review of the Accusation of Rafd against Wakee ibn al- Jarrah, a narrator of the kutub al-sittah
This study critically reviews the accusation of Rafd against the highly reliable Hadith narrator, Wakee' ibn al-Jarrah (d. 197 AH), a foundational figure in the Six Canonical Books of Hadith (Kutub al-Sittah). Despite his status as an Imam affirmed by major Hadith scholars like Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, ibn Saad, ibn Hibban certain historical reports have questioned his creed. The research analyzes the isnad (chain of narration) and the content of these accusatory reports against the strong evidence of his widespread acceptance. The findings demonstrate that the accusation of Rafd is weak and unsubstantiated and is directly refuted by statements from Wakee' himself and reliable contemporary scholars, who testified to his correct beliefs. We conclude that Wakee' ibn al-Jarrah remains an authoritative and trustworthy Imam of Ahlus-Sunnah, and the charge of Rafd is not definitively proven upon scholarly investigation.
Wakee' ibn al-Jarrah, Rafd, Al-Jarh wa al-Ta'deel, Kutub al-Sittah, Narrator of Hadith.
Preventing drug use in educational institutions in the light of the Seerah of the Prophet (peace be upon him)
Allah Almighty has blessed human beings with countless blessings, the greatest of which is intellect. It is this intellect that distinguishes humans from all other creatures and enables them to harness the forces of the universe. Not only this, in fact, humans blessed to govern the universe (world) with the same intellect. Because of that Allah (Subhanahu Tallah) says in Holy Quran “indeed the evidence is for people of understanding”. Intellect directs humans to act upon the laws of nature. As long as man continued to use it wisely, he kept uncovering the secrets of the universe and he continued to play his part in the struggle to conquer the universe. But gradually, man began to rebel against the laws of nature, which led to the emergence of various types of crimes in the world. Among these unnatural acts is a major social evil that has affected not only the Muslim world but every country across the globe, and that is the growing use of drugs. In the present era, students in educational institutions are the most affected by this epidemic. This article explores the causes behind the rising trend of drug abuse in academic settings and examines how, in the light of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life, its prevention can be made possible. The Prophet’s (PBUH) noble life teaches us that he guided his Ummah away from intoxicants by considering human psychology and offering a wise and compassionate approach to moral training.
major social evil. drug abuse in academic. use of drugs۔
Muslim Women and Health: An Analytical Study of Islamic Principles, Modern Medical Science, and Reproductive Health in the Context of Seerah
This study explores the intersection of Islamic teachings, modern medical science, and reproductive health, focusing on the health and well-being of Muslim women. By analyzing the Seerah (the life of Prophet Muhammad PBUH) alongside contemporary health issues, this research examines how Islamic principles inform women’s health, with particular attention to reproductive health. The paper investigates the compatibility between Islamic healthcare guidelines and modern medical practices, emphasizing the importance of both traditional and contemporary approaches to women’s well-being. It discusses the Islamic perspective on women’s health as presented in the Quran and Hadith, highlighting key principles such as cleanliness, nutrition, and holistic well-being, and contrasts these with modern medical views on preventive healthcare, reproductive rights, and treatment of common health conditions. Additionally, the study identifies areas where Islamic teachings align with or diverge from modern medical practices, offering insights into how Muslim women can navigate these areas to improve their health outcomes. The research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of religious teachings in shaping health practices and policies for Muslim women, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach that respects religious beliefs while addressing contemporary health challenges.
Muslim women, health, Seerah, Islamic teachings, modern medical science, reproductive health, healthcare, women's well-being, Quran, Hadith
Online Betting and Gambling in the Digital Economy: An Analytical Study of Islamic, Social, and Legal Dimensions
Gambling (Qimar) does not only refer to the common form of betting in which money is directly involved; rather, it includes all kinds and forms that are carried out under the guise of trade but are in fact types of gambling. Anyone familiar with business can easy realize how commercial gambling disrupts and destroys the overall economic system of a country and how the pursuit of profit without labor ruins thousands of families and households. Gambling was prevalent even in the age of ignorance, but in the modern era it has taken on new forms, the understanding of which has become a pressing need of the time. The jurists (Fuqaha) state that a person who is not aware of the ways of his contemporaries such as their lifestyle, their economic dealing, their social practices, and their customs and tastes is in reality ignorant. In the modern era, gambling has taken on new forms, with various gambling apps at the forefront through which large scale betting is taking place. In addition, online casino games, sports betting, e sports betting, online poker rooms, virtual sports, crash games, multiplier games, and crypto casinos/ block chain based gambling have also emerged. This article presents an introduction to gambling and highlights its contemporary online forms to raise awareness. Furthermore, it discusses the economic, social and moral impacts of gambling, while also pointing out its harms from an Islamic perspective. The purpose is to encourage people to keep themselves away from this curse and to make the new generation aware so that they too may stay protected from it.
Gambling, Modern Era, Online Apps, Awareness, Islamic Perspective
Hafiz Haroon Ahmad (Corresponding Author)
A Critical Study of Tafsīr Aḍwā’ al-Bayān by Allāmah Muhammad al-Amīn al-Shanqīṭī: Characteristics, Methodological and Stylistic Distinctions
Tafsīr Aḍwā’ al-Bayān by Allāmah Muhammad al-Amīn al-Shanqīṭī stands as one of the most distinguished scholarly works of the modern era, known for its rigorous methodology and unique interpretive approach. This study critically examines the distinctive features, methodological principles, and stylistic qualities that make this tafsīr a remarkable contribution to Qur’anic exegesis. Central to Shanqīṭī’s method is tafsīr al-Qur’ān bil-Qur’ān, whereby the Qur’an explains itself through interconnected verses, thematic parallels, and internal coherence. This approach strengthens textual analysis and ensures that meaning remains firmly rooted in divine discourse. Alongside this, the tafsīr demonstrates careful use of authentic Prophetic traditions, insights from the Companions, and a balanced engagement with classical juristic opinions, particularly when addressing legal and ethical issues. The study explores Shanqīṭī’s profound command of Arabic linguistics, rhetoric, and grammar, which enriches his exegetical discussions and clarifies complex expressions with precision. His rational yet tradition-grounded method distinguishes Aḍwā’ al-Bayān from both purely narrative and overly speculative commentaries. A comparative assessment with major works—such as those of Ibn Kathīr, al-Ṭabarī, al-Rāzī, al-Zamakhsharī, and al-Ṭabāṭabā’ī—highlights the tafsīr’s balance between textual fidelity, jurisprudential depth, and linguistic mastery. This research concludes that Aḍwā’ al-Bayān offers a comprehensive, coherent, and intellectually mature model of Qur’anic interpretation that remains particularly relevant for contemporary scholarship, curriculum development, and informed religious discourse in the Muslim world.
Aḍwā’ al-Bayān, Shanqīṭī, Qur’anic Exegesis, Tafsīr Methodology, Linguistic Analysis, Jurisprudence, Comparative Tafsīr
The Constitutional Structure of the Constitution of Madīnah in the Prophetic Era: An Analytical Study of the Principles of Citizenship and Interreligious Coexistence
This study explores the constitutional structure of the Charter of Madinah established by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) during the early Islamic period, focusing on its foundational principles of citizenship and interfaith coexistence. The research aims to analyze how the Charter functioned as the first written constitution ensuring justice, equality, and communal harmony among diverse religious and ethnic groups in Madinah. Drawing upon primary sources such as Hadith, Sirah literature, and early Islamic historiography, the paper examines the Prophet’s (ﷺ) approach to governance, pluralism, and social contract. The study highlights that the Charter of Madinah recognized all inhabitants—Muslims, Jews, and others—as part of a single political community (Ummah Wāḥidah), thus laying the groundwork for a just and inclusive state system. By comparing these principles with modern constitutional concepts of citizenship and minority rights, the research demonstrates the timeless relevance of the Prophetic model for fostering peace, coexistence, and equitable governance in contemporary multicultural societies.
Charter of Madinah, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Citizenship, Interfaith Coexistence, Islamic Constitution, Pluralism, Justice, Governance
Dr. Atiq ur Rahman (Corresponding Author)
Permanent Residence in Non-Muslim Countries: A Critical Review of Selected Fatwas from the 21st Century
In the present era, due to international connectivity and growing economic needs, traveling to and permanently residing in non-Muslim countries has become a necessity for many people. However, since scholars hold differing opinions on this issue, Muslims who choose to live in non-Muslim countries often face criticism and religious objections. A review of contemporary scholarly opinions reveals that permanent residence in non-Muslim countries where faith is at risk or religious freedom is restricted is unanimously considered impermissible. However, there is a difference of opinion regarding those non-Muslim countries where one’s faith remains secure and religious freedom is guaranteed. Some scholars maintain that even in such countries, a Muslim should avoid permanent residence in order to protect himself and his family from moral corruption, ideological deviation and spiritual harm. On the other hand, the majority of scholars believe that if one’s faith is preserved, religious practices are allowed and one can openly live according to Islamic principles, then residing permanently in such countries is permissible. This study aims to present a critical analysis of these varying scholarly opinions along with their supporting evidences.
Non-Muslim countries, Permanent residence, Islamic jurisprudence, Scholarly opinions, Religious freedom, Contemporary fatwas, Migration in Islam, Modern challenges
Dr. Shahzada Imran Ayub (Corresponding Author)
Evidences of Sīrah Discussions in Fatwā Literature (A Critical Study of Al-Aṭāyā Al-Nabawiyyah fī -Al-Fatāwā Al-Riḍawiyyah)
Fiqh is not a new discipline; scholarly engagement with it began during the era of Khayr al-Qurūn (Early years of Islam). However, with the passage of time, it has continued to evolve, exhibiting increasing sophistication, originality, and refinement. A few centuries ago, this discipline took the form of Fatāwā compilations. Among the various collections of Fatāwā authored across different regions, languages and eras of the Muslim world, Fatāwā Riḍawiyyah occupies a distinct and distinguished position among all. This monumental and phenomenal work stands out for the diversity of its subjects, the novelty of its evidentiary reasoning, the depth of its derivation, extrapolation of legal principles, implementations and its engagement with contemporary issues. Beyond its juristic mastery and superiority, it also embodies a profound and all-encompassing devotion to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Imam Ahmad Raza Khan’s fervent expressions of love for the Prophet ﷺ in this collection and compilation of Fatāwā, and it is this very spiritual ardor that naturally leads to the inclusion of discussions pertaining to Sīrah (the life of the Prophet), happen to be the topic of this article.
Sīrah, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan, Al-Fatāwā al-Riḍawiyyah, Fatāwā compilations,
Citizenship of non-Muslim states: Beneficial rights and legal status of Muslim minorities
In the Qur'an, Allah says that everything in the universe has been created for the benefit of mankind so that man can worship Allah unitedly. That is why man has the country of some things in the world, so whatever he owns, he has full right to benefit from that thing. At the same time, he can also give the right to benefit from his belongings to someone else. The right to benefit from one's own thing or someone else's belongings is called "benefit" and the right to gain that benefit is called "right of benefit" in fiqh terminology. These rights are some individual and some social and collective. Intifada rights have great importance in the economy and trade. Collective rights refer to the rights that are equally enjoyed by all in a society and society, i.e. all people have the right to benefit from them without discrimination. Collective rights mean that each individual has the right to live a strong life in his or her social life, which is provided to him by providing him with basic necessities such as health, education, employment, and justice rights. The benefit shows here that these rights should be given to the individual to a very high extent so that he can live his life strongly. Through the meaning and practical provision of collective rights, every individual benefits from social and human rights and this leads to good balance and development in the social system. Many Muslims go to non-Muslim countries for different purposes, where they have rights under the law of that country. In today's time, as the world has become the existence of globalization, many modern types of these rights and rulings etc. are also coming up. In the paper under review, we will examine their rights from an Islamic perspective.
Rights, Islamic, Muslims, Minorities, Fiqh, Social, Humans, Citizenship,
Educational Environment and Training Factors for Children: An Analytical Study in the Light of Islamic Principles
Education remains a cornerstone of human development across eras, with the learning-teaching continuum spanning from birth to death. Formal education necessitates foundational elements—learner, teacher, learning, society, teaching, and curriculum—any absence of which renders the process incomplete. The core objective is to nurture children’s potentials, interests, and inclinations, transforming them into productive societal contributors, thereby sustaining social equilibrium through effective teacher-led training. This analytical study, rooted in Islamic principles, Quranic injunctions, and Prophetic traditions, examines critical factors for optimal child training in contemporary educational settings. It underscores ignorance as darkness and knowledge as light, advocating parental adornment of children with beneficial worldly and hereafter-oriented knowledge. Revelation’s initiation with “Iqra” (Read) highlights knowledge’s primacy, with all sciences tracing Quranic origins. Parents and educators must foster spiritual, intellectual, physical, individual, familial, social, and moral growth, aligning with the child’s innate fitrah (Islamic disposition). Educational goals encompass divine proximity, faith fortification, ideological resilience, skill enhancement, and character refinement. Responsibilities of parents (first educators) and institutions are delineated, alongside balanced religious (madaris) and secular curricula. Teachers’ pivotal role demands diligence, ethical modeling, and adaptive pedagogy, eschewing corporal punishment for compassionate guidance. Integration of modernity—technology, sciences—while preserving Islamic ethos is imperative. Etiquettes of knowledge-seeking emphasize intention, respect, patience, and dissemination. In Pakistan’s context, amid technological influx and cultural shifts, Islamic training ensures balanced personalities obedient to Allah, societally beneficial, and hereafter-successful, countering vices through enlightened upbringing.
Islamic Education, Child Training, Parental Role, Teacher Ethics, Religious-Secular Balance, Moral Development, Modern Integration
Naimat Ullah Khan (Corresponding Author)
A Critical Analysis of Electoral Strategy of JUI in Context of Religious Politics
In the field of politics, it is very important for the parties to awaken the political mindset in the community in order to accept their constitutional manifesto, because it is impossible to choose the right leadership unless there is awareness among the people about politics. Religious political parties, like other political parties, are at the forefront of raising awareness of political thought in the society by ensuring manpower through their manifestos. Religious parties have been successful in mobilizing any section of the population to vote. In religious political parties JUI is famous parties which was established in 1945. Allama Shabbir Ahmad Usmani is the founder of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam. He has always struggled for the implementation of Islam since the establishment of Pakistan. JUI is distinguished from other religious parties in terms of success and activity and Jamiat members have been raising the issue of implementation of Islam in the parliament. In the constitutional and legal context, it is important for political parties to participate in elections according to the prevailing electoral political system in Pakistan and to try to shape the state according to their mission after gaining power in the country. Achieving government through unconstitutional measures always leads to failure. At the same time, its representation in the House through electoral politics and its role in resolving national issues is also important. In this article electoral politics of JUI was reviewed.
Religious politics, Islamization, Electoral politics, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam