AL-ĪMĀN Research Journal (IRJ) ISSN: 3006-1261[Print] 3006-127X [Online] is an open access double blind peer reviewed, quarterly and trilingual (Urdu, Arabic & English) Research Journal related to the field of Arts & Social Science published by Hira Institute of Social Sciences Research & Development, Punjab, Pakistan. The editorial team of the Journal is following the rules defined by HEC (Higher Education Commission Pakistan).
Hira institute of Social Science Research & Development
The Concept of Optimism (Tafā’ul) and Symbolism (Ramz) in Islamic Thought: A Research Study of Shariah Perspectives, Prophetic Methodology, and Contemporary Relevance
This study examines the intricate relationship between optimism (tafāʾul) and symbolism (ramz) in Islamic thought, arguing that Islam transforms internal hope into an active and meaningful semiotic framework for psychological and spiritual renewal. Through a qualitative analysis of classical linguistic traditions and Sharīʿah texts, the research situates tafāʾul as a natural outcome of theistic optimism (ḥusn al-ẓann bi-Allāh), clearly distinguishing it from superstitious practices such as taṭayyur. The study further analyzes the semiotic relationship between the signifier (dāll) and the signified (madlūl) within Prophetic practices, highlighting examples such as the symbolic transformation of the cloak (taḥwīl al-ridāʾ) and the intentional practice of renaming as expressions of constructive meaning-making. In addition, a critical exegesis of Qurʾānic narratives—particularly the symbolic progression of the shirts of Prophet Yūsuf (ʿalayhi al-salām)—reveals a coherent “symbolism of hope” rooted in metaphysical reality rather than mere abstraction. The findings suggest that Islamic symbolic optimism provides a robust ontological and epistemological foundation that surpasses the limitations of purely materialistic notions of “positive thinking.” By integrating faith, meaning, and symbolism, it offers a comprehensive therapeutic framework capable of addressing contemporary psychological and spiritual crises, especially those rooted in despair, anxiety, and loss of meaning.
Tony Morrison’s Beloved Reimagines the Body as an Archive, Advancing a Black Feminist Epistemology that Destabilizes Western Regimes of Evidence and Historical Truth
This research develops an extended critical investigation of Toni Morrison’s Beloved (1987), advancing the argument that the novel reconfigures the human body as a living archive that stores, transmits, and contests historical knowledge. In doing so, Morrison constructs a Black feminist epistemology that destabilizes dominant Western regimes of evidence, objectivity, and historiographical authority. Rather than privileging written documentation, linear temporality, and institutional archives, Beloved foregrounds embodied memory, affect, oral storytelling, and spectral return as legitimate and necessary forms of knowledge production. The study situates Morrison’s work at the intersection of Black feminist theory, trauma studies, memory studies, and poststructuralist archival theory. It examines how the novel critiques the epistemic violence embedded within traditional archives systems that historically excluded enslaved Black subjects and proposes alternative epistemologies rooted in lived experience. Through close textual analysis, the research explores how bodily scars, fragmented narrative structures, and haunting disrupt conventional understandings of truth. By conceptualizing the body as archive, Morrison not only recovers suppressed histories of slavery but also redefines the criteria by which knowledge is validated. This project contributes to interdisciplinary scholarship by demonstrating how literature can function as both an archive and a methodological intervention in historical discourse.
Body as Archive, Embodied Memory, Trauma Studies, Memory Studies, Archival Theory, Poststructuralism, Slavery Narratives, Oral Tradition, Spectrality
A Research Review of Intellectual Development in the Era of Akbar
The era of Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Akbar (1556–1605) represents a transformative period marked by significant intellectual development in the Indian subcontinent. This study examines the establishment of libraries, educational institutions, and curricular reforms that encouraged critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and cultural exchange. The period witnessed remarkable advancements in Persian calligraphy, music, and painting, with scholars and artists receiving substantial imperial patronage. Prominent intellectuals such as Abū al-Faḍl and Fayḍī made enduring contributions, producing seminal works like Akbarnāmah and Āʾīn-i Akbarī, which offer valuable insights into the socio-political and cultural landscape of the time. Furthermore, the era was distinguished by an extensive translation movement, through which important texts from Sanskrit, Arabic, and Turkish were rendered into Persian, thereby enriching the region’s intellectual and cultural heritage. Akbar’s policy of religious tolerance created an inclusive environment that enabled scholars from diverse backgrounds to flourish. This atmosphere of openness significantly contributed to the growth of intellectual discourse and cross-cultural interaction. Institutions such as the imperial translation bureau played a vital role in facilitating knowledge transmission and scholarly engagement. The intellectual advancements of Akbar’s reign had a lasting impact on the cultural and intellectual history of South Asia. By fostering learning, dialogue, and synthesis of traditions, this period not only shaped the cultural identity of the region but also influenced subsequent generations of scholars and thinkers.
Elegiac Elements in the Ghazals of Muḥsin Naqvī
Although modern Urdu ghazal has significantly expanded its thematic and expressive scope, the poetry of Muḥsin Naqvī occupies a distinctive position due to its deep symbolic and cultural association with the theme of Karbala. This study examines the elegiac (rithāʾī) elements in Muḥsin Naqvī’s Karbala-oriented poetry and argues that his poetic discourse represents a synthesis of classical elegiac tradition and modern sensibility, achieved through linguistic simplicity, emotional intensity, and symbolic coherence. In Muḥsin Naqvī’s poetry, the elegiac dimension presents Karbala not merely as a distant historical event but as a profound moral and existential reality. Through recurring symbols such as thirst, desert, blood, and martyrdom, he constructs a shared cultural vocabulary. These symbols are not merely ornamental; rather, they function as semantic foundations that link individual grief with collective memory. In this way, his poetry invites readers to engage with the ethical and emotional legacy of Karbala within contemporary social and political contexts. Muḥsin Naqvī’s poetic tone avoids unnecessary abstraction and instead emphasizes emotional authenticity, rhythmic simplicity, and thematic unity, all of which significantly enhance the elegiac quality of his work. The fusion of personal sorrow with collective tragedy produces a layered yet accessible poetic experience. The elegiac elements in Muḥsin Naqvī’s ghazals are not merely stylistic devices but a deliberate aesthetic strategy that renders complex intellectual and moral concepts both comprehensible and impactful. By presenting Karbala as a dynamic and relatable symbol, Muḥsin Naqvī revitalizes the elegiac tradition and ensures its continued relevance within modern Urdu literary discourse.
The Recipients of Qurʾānic Arguments( A Study in the Context of the Existence of Allah)
The evidence is of existence of Allah in the Holy Qurʾān, by virtue of their comprehensiveness and diversity; address every level of human understanding and faculties. Yet it must also be borne in mind that human dispositions are not uniform, not every mind is equally impressed and convinced by the same mode of argument, nor can every group derive equal benefit from every sort of proof and evidence. One perceives the manifestation of the Creator in the order and harmony of the cosmos; other discerns the signs of Lordship within the miraculous organization of the human self; yet another finds testimony to Allah in moral consciousness and in the distinction between right and wrong. Thus, the Qurʾān opens different avenues for various minds and temperaments, so that everyone may attain the path of certainty according to his or her capacity. People of reflection and insight derive illumination from contemplating the cosmic signs and the vast order of the universe, while scholars attain the reality of Divine Unity through intellectual and rational inquiry. Likewise, those guided by sound reason find reassurance in logical demonstrations and the testimony of innate human nature. The marvel of the Qurʾān lies precisely in this: that it presents one and the same truth in diverse modes of expression, so that despite the variety of human temperaments, none are deprived. Each person, according to the degree of his insight, partakes of these proofs, and thus faith manifests itself in every heart in proportion to its capacity.
Negotiating Identity under Colonial Shadows: A Postcolonial Study of Angrej
This study examines the representation of cultural identity and colonial presence in Punjabi cinema through a postcolonial analysis of Angrej (2015). Set in pre-Partition rural Punjab, the film presents a nostalgic portrayal of indigenous life under British colonial rule while largely minimizing the explicit depiction of colonial authority. Drawing on postcolonial theoretical perspectives, particularly the concepts of hybridity and cultural dominance, this paper argues that Angrej constructs an idealized vision of Punjabi identity that negotiates colonial influence through subtle narrative strategies. The analysis demonstrates how the film foregrounds local traditions, language, and social structures to assert cultural continuity and authenticity. At the same time, the relative absence of direct colonial representation reflects a form of narrative displacement that reconfigures historical realities. The findings suggest that the film contributes to a broader cinematic tendency to romanticize pre-Partition Punjab, thereby shaping collective memory and cultural identity in postcolonial contexts. Overall, the study highlights the complex relationship between nostalgia, identity construction, and postcolonial discourse in regional cinema.
The Concept of Exception for State Authorities in Islam: A Research and Critical Analysis in the Light of the Qur’an and Sunnah
The survival of human society depends upon justice and equity. Islam established a legal system in which all individuals are equal before the law and no person is granted superiority because of authority or position. However, within Pakistan’s constitutional framework, the issue of immunity granted to high-ranking state officials raises important legal and ethical concerns. Article 248 of the Constitution previously provided immunity to the President, Governors, and the Prime Minister. Through the 27th Constitutional Amendment (2025), instead of abolishing these privileges, the immunity of the President has been extended to a lifelong status, continuing even after the completion of the term of office. Similarly, amendments to Article 243 have granted lifelong immunity to the Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, and Admiral of the Fleet. These developments appear to contradict the principle of equality before the law and the concept of justice emphasized in Islamic teachings. This study examines the concept of immunity from the perspective of Islamic law by analyzing the Qur’an, Sunnah, the practices of the Rashidun Caliphate, and the opinions of classical and contemporary scholars. Using a qualitative, historical, and analytical methodology, the research evaluates the constitutional provisions of Pakistan and compares them with Islamic legal principles. The study concludes that absolute or lifelong immunity for rulers has no clear justification in Islamic law and undermines the principles of justice and accountability.
Dr. Masaru Emoto’s Water Theory and the Impact of Human Consciousness on Matter: A Research Study
This research paper explores the revolutionary yet controversial hypothesis proposed by Japanese researcher Dr. Masaru Emoto, which suggests that water possesses the ability to respond to human consciousness, intentions, words, and vibrational frequencies. Dr. Emoto’s central claim is that water molecules act as a "biological computer," capable of storing and reflecting environmental energy. By utilizing high-speed microscopic photography of frozen water crystals, he demonstrated positive stimuli such as the words "love" and "gratitude" or classical music result - aesthetically in symmetrical hexagonal structures. Conversely, negative stimuli like hateful words or heavy metal music produce chaotic and fragmented formations. This study adopts a dual-perspective approach to evaluate Emoto’s work. On one hand, supporters from the fields of metaphysics and alternative medicine utilize principles of quantum mechanics, such as the "Observer Effect" and the concept of "Hado" (vibrational energy), to validate the possibility of a mind-matter interaction. On the other hand, the mainstream scientific community critiqued his methodology, citing a lack of double-blind protocols and "selection bias," where specific images were allegedly chosen to support a predetermined narrative Special attention is given to Emoto’s experiments on Zamzam water, where he observed a unique double-hexagonal crystalline structure that remained stable even under significant dilution. This finding is analyzed within a spiritual framework, suggesting a scientific basis for the effects of Quranic recitation and prayer. Through an examination of 30 scholarly and metaphysical references, this paper concludes that while Emoto’s theory remains outside the boundaries of classical molecular biology, it has pioneered a significant dialogue on Water Memory." It suggests that water may serve as a bridge between the physical and the metaphysical, urging a deeper exploration of the subtle energies that govern our reality.
A Comparative Analysis of Machine Translation and Human Translation: Efficacy of Poetry Translation from Urdu to English
Poetry is essentially the most condensed and pragmatically loaded form of art. The daunting task of effectively translating poetry requires avant-garde translating acumen. With the advent of neural machine translation, the debate on Human vs. Machine Translation and the speculation of Machine Translation replacing humans went rife. The current study aims to gauge the efficacy of Google Translate’s (MT) rendering of Iqbal’s poem La Illaha Ilallah as compared to Bashir Ahmed Dar’s Human Translation (HT) of the same poem. Bahir Ahmed Dar published his English translation of the chosen poem in his book ‘Rod of Moses’. This study examines the impact of Antoine Berman’s deforming tendencies on the Machine and Human English translations of Iqbal’s poem La Illaha Ilallah. Moreover, the study aims to find out how lexical elements change in the translations of the source language to make it suitable for the target language audience by adopting the deforming tendencies. It is a qualitative type of study employing Berman’s Model of Twelve Deforming Tendencies to analyze which strategies were used in both the English translation of Iqbal’s Urdu poem. The data of the Source Urdu Text was collected from the Internet Archive, and that of Human Translation was taken from Bashir A. Dar’s book Rod of Moses. To generate the Machine Translation, Google Translate was used to generate the MT output. The results indicated that the MT of the work suffered from lexical mismatches, destruction of rhythm and destruction of vernacular networks, rendering an erroneous and vague translation, while HT managed to retain the cultural and contextual essence of the source text. The findings also revealed that the Human translation also faced many deformative tendencies but successfully maintained the genre and social stance of the author. Overall, it appears that poetry translation may benefit from a human translator's profound attention to cultural and contextual detail, which is ignored by NMT tools such as Google Translate, leading to inconsistencies in the translation.
Dr. F. Abdul Rahim and His Pedagogical Methodology in Duroos al-Lughah al-ʿArabiyyah li-Ghayr al-Nāṭiqīn bihā
This study examines the pedagogical and methodological framework adopted by Dr. F. Abdul Rahim in his renowned instructional series Duroos al-Lughah al-ʿArabiyyah li-Ghayr al-Nāṭiqīn bihā. The research aims to analyze the linguistic, educational, and instructional principles underlying this widely used work, particularly in the context of teaching Arabic to non-native speakers. The series has gained significant recognition, especially at the Islamic University of Madinah, where it has been extensively utilized in Arabic language programs. Employing a descriptive and analytical methodology, the study explores the structural organization of the series, its systematic and gradual presentation of linguistic components, and its emphasis on immersive language acquisition without reliance on a mediating language. Special attention is given to the integration of grammar, vocabulary, and communicative practice within carefully structured lessons that promote progressive language mastery. The findings indicate that the effectiveness of Dr. Abdul Rahim’s methodology stems from its successful combination of classical Arabic authenticity with contemporary language-teaching strategies. By maintaining fidelity to traditional grammatical foundations while incorporating modern pedagogical principles, the series provides a balanced and practical approach to language instruction. Consequently, Duroos al-Lughah al-ʿArabiyyah stands as a highly influential and effective model in the field of teaching Arabic as a foreign language, contributing significantly to the development of structured Arabic language pedagogy for non-native learners.
Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language (TAFL),
Derivation of the Justification of Legal Commands through the Principle of Justice in Sūrah al-Nisā
Sūrah al-Nisāʾ is a Madinan sūrah consisting of 176 verses and 24 rukūʿāt. It is the fourth chapter of the Holy Qurʾān and derives its name from the extensive discussion of rulings related to women contained within it. The explanation of the underlying reason or cause of a matter is termed taʿlīl, and when applied to legal injunctions, it is referred to as taʿlīl al-aḥkām. In Islamic legal theory, an unspecified ruling may be determined by drawing an analogy (qiyās) with a specified ruling, based on a shared effective cause (ʿillah). Another important dimension of taʿlīl is the recognition that Sharīʿah rulings are grounded in wisdom and benefit (maṣlaḥah) for humanity. The causes underlying legal rulings are generally categorized into two types: explicit (manṣūṣ) causes, which are directly stated in the text, and derived (mustanbaṭ) causes, which are inferred through juristic reasoning. Through an analytical examination of various classical and contemporary exegeses of Sūrah al-Nisāʾ, this study identifies approximately twelve derived causes associated with its legal injunctions. These have been systematically compiled and analyzed in the research. The study offers a novel methodological contribution by organizing and presenting the inferred rationales identified by Qurʾānic commentators in a structured and coherent manner, thereby providing a fresh perspective on the jurisprudential analysis of the sūrah’s legal directives.
The Prophetic Method of Education in the Light of Modern Psychological and Social Sciences
This research investigates the pedagogical methodology of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and its relevance to modern psychological and social sciences. The study demonstrates that the Prophet’s educational model was comprehensive, addressing not only intellectual and cognitive aspects but also emotional, moral, spiritual, and social dimensions of human growth. Unlike many contemporary approaches that focus primarily on technical or behavioral aspects, the Prophetic model integrates compassion, empathy, gradual training, and moral guidance into the very fabric of education. The findings highlight several dimensions of this pedagogy. First, positive reinforcement and encouragement were central to the Prophet’s method, which aligns with modern psychology’s emphasis on affirmation for building self-confidence and resilience. Second, his approach to anger management and emotional regulation resonates strongly with contemporary theories of emotional intelligence, emphasizing patience, self-control, and empathy. Third, social training within family and community structures formed a critical element, ensuring children developed responsibility, cooperation, and respect for others. Fourth, the use of practical role-modeling demonstrates the principle that children and youth learn most effectively through lived examples rather than abstract instruction. This study concludes that Prophetic pedagogy not only predates but also surpasses modern educational theories by presenting a timeless, human-centered, and holistic approach. It provides valuable insights for contemporary parents, educators, and policymakers seeking to integrate ethical, emotional, and social dimensions into effective education and training systems.
The Representation of Punjabi Culture in Ashfaq Ahmed’s Short Story Collection “Subḥānay Afāsānay”
Culture represents the intellectual and material expressions of human communities living within a specific geographical region. Its intellectual dimensions shape both the inner and outer aspects of life, guiding individuals in the art of living and sustaining social relationships. These elements influence customs associated with festivals, fairs, and significant events related to life and death. Similarly, the patterns developed by a community to regulate both internal thought and external behavior constitute its traditions and customs. To preserve and transmit these traditions, each generation educates the next, ensuring cultural continuity. Society, therefore, emerges as a collective and comprehensive process in which individuals adhere to an established way of life. This cultural framework operates simultaneously at both internal and external levels, shaping beliefs as well as social practices. Culture is not static; it is continuously influenced by multiple factors that shape and reshape it over time. Historical circumstances, natural calamities, political forces, and social movements all play a significant role in the formation and organization of cultural identity. In this context, the depiction of Punjab in Ashfaq Ahmed’s short stories provides valuable insight into twentieth-century Punjabi society. His fiction reflects the cultural values, traditions, and social forces prevalent during his era. Through his portrayal of everyday life, Ashfaq Ahmed captures both individual experiences and collective realities, offering a vivid representation of Punjabi culture and its evolving social landscape.
A Critical Review of Objections to Īṣāl al-Thawāb, Samāʿ al-Mawtā, and the Construction of Mosques at Shrines
Critics of Ṣūfism have raised objections to the practices of Īṣāl al-Thawāb, Samāʿ al-Mawtā, and the construction of mosques at shrines. According to Ghulām Aḥmad Parwez, the belief in Īṣāl al-Thawāb is un-Qurʾānic. From his perspective of divine recompense, every individual bears the consequence of his or her own actions, and such outcomes cannot be transferred to another person, whether living or deceased. This study seeks to examine, in the light of the Qurʾān and Sunnah, whether one person can benefit another in the intermediate or the Hereafter life. Parwez’s viewpoint will be critically analyzed in the light of the Qurʾān and Sunnah, as well as through the perspectives of the Prophet’s teachings, the understanding of the Companions, and the established practice of the Muslim Ummah, in order to determine the juristic and doctrinal status of Īṣāl al-Thawāb. Another significant issue raised by critics is that of Samāʿ al-Mawtā. According to Parwez, the dead do not possess the capacity to hear, whereas the Ṣūfīs affirm this belief. The arguments presented by Parwez regarding Samāʿ al-Mawtā will be examined analytically, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of the issue in the light of the Qurʾān and Sunnah, with the aim of reaching its doctrinal reality. Among issues related to shrines, a fundamental concern is the construction of mosques near graves. Sayyid Abū al-Aʿlā Mawdūdī regarded the construction of mosques adjacent to the shrines of saints as tantamount to an act of shirk. His arguments will first be analyzed critically, followed by an evaluation of this viewpoint in the light of the Qurʾān and Sunnah. Scholarly opinions of later researchers will also be reviewed to determine the legal status of constructing mosques near graves. After an analytical study of these three issues, the research will conclude by assessing the validity of the criticisms and clarifying the correct position of these matters in the light of the Qurʾān and Sunnah.
Divorce and Inheritance Rights of Muslim Minorities in Non-Muslim States: A Legal and Social Review
Muslim minorities residing in non-Muslim states face considerable legal and social challenges in matters of family law, particularly with regard to divorce and inheritance. Although Islamic law provides a comprehensive and well-developed framework for regulating these issues, secular legal systems in Europe and the United States often offer limited recognition to religious legal norms. This article critically examines the legal status of Muslim divorce and inheritance in non-Muslim states through the theoretical lenses of legal pluralism and religious freedom. Adopting a qualitative and comparative research approach, the study explores the tensions between secular legal frameworks and Islamic family law, highlighting the resulting social and legal implications for Muslim minority communities. Particular attention is given to the impact of these legal constraints on Muslim women, who frequently face heightened vulnerability due to overlapping legal, cultural, and social pressures. The findings reveal that inadequate accommodation of Islamic family law within secular legal systems contributes to legal uncertainty and insecurity among Muslim minorities. Such conditions often lead to difficulties in the recognition of marital status, enforcement of divorce settlements, and protection of inheritance rights. The article argues that these challenges can be mitigated through increased legal awareness within Muslim communities, proper civil documentation of marriages and wills, and the development of constructive dialogue between state authorities and religious minority representatives. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the need for balanced legal solutions that respect both the principles of secular law and the fundamental rights of religious minorities.
A Stylistic Analysis of Figurative Language in Contemporary English Song Lyrics: Metaphor and Symbolism in 'Demons' and 'Let It Go'
This paper presents a stylistic analysis of two popular English songs Demons” by Imagine Dragons and “Let It Go” by Idina Menzel focusing on their use of figurative language, particularly metaphor and symbolism. Using a qualitative descriptive research design, the study explores how figurative devices contribute to the emotional tone, thematic development, and listener engagement within the songs. The analysis reveals that “Demons” employs dark metaphors and reference imagery to dramatize themes of psychological struggle, inner conflict, and moral doubt. In contrast, “Let It Go” utilizes liberating metaphors and open symbolism to express emotional freedom, self-acceptance, and personal empowerment. By juxtaposing these two works, the study highlights how figurative language serves as a powerful tool in constructing contrasting emotional narratives and conveying complex psychological states. The comparative approach underscores the versatility of metaphor and symbolism in shaping the listener’s emotional experience and reinforcing thematic contrasts between repression and liberation. Moreover, the study emphasizes the pedagogical value of analyzing song lyrics as authentic literary texts. Incorporating such materials into English language and literature classrooms can enhance learners’ understanding of stylistic variation, pragmatic meaning, and cultural awareness. Ultimately, the research contributes to the broader field of stylistics by demonstrating how contemporary music reflects universal human emotions through artistic language, thereby bridging the gap between linguistic creativity and emotional expression in modern popular culture.
Cultural Identity and Pragmatic Competence: A Cross-Cultural Analysis of Punjabi and Pashto Learners of English in Pakistan
This study examines the influence of cultural identity on pragmatic competence among Punjabi and Pashto speakers learning English in Pakistan. It explores how learners perform speech acts such as requests, refusals, and apologies, focusing on how sociocultural norms shape their communicative strategies. Grounded in the framework of Interlanguage Pragmatics and constructivist epistemology, the study employs both Discourse Completion Tasks (DCTs) and semi-structured interviews to collect data from students and instructors. Through thematic analysis, distinctive pragmatic tendencies were observed. Punjabi learners exhibited a preference for directness and pragmatic efficiency, which sometimes compromised relational politeness. In contrast, Pashto learners demonstrated a tendency toward indirectness, elaborate politeness expressions, and a higher concern for maintaining social harmony and respect. These differences reflect how deeply cultural identity and social hierarchy influence communicative behavior in English as a second language context. The findings reveal that pragmatic transfer—both positive and negative—occurs frequently and is strongly rooted in learners’ cultural frameworks. The study highlights that effective English language teaching should integrate elements of Culturally Responsive Pedagogy to address such variations. It further emphasizes the need for cross-cultural awareness, pragmatic flexibility, and role-based communicative training in ELT classrooms. By bridging culture and language learning, this research contributes to a more inclusive understanding of how local identities shape global communication practices.
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The Role of the United Nations in Peace and Conflict: A Critical Analysis
This study examines critically the role of the United Nations (UN) in dealing with the various existing conflicts around the world and the issues it faces in fulfilling its fundamental mission of peace and security. In spite of the fact that the UN plays a pivotal role in the management of international issues, it is not effectively responding towards complex crisis situations, especially in some regions like Palestine, Ukraine, the Middle East, South Asia, etc since 2020. The limitations of the UN to adapt to rapidly changing geopolitical landscapes and conflicting interests of member states are apparent in these respective regions. càr is the credibility of the UN'scollapse in Afghanistan specifically and unz security Council generally with the focus on how the UN has responded to the conflicts through peaciphilie efforts, humanitarian assistance and diplomatic action. It examines UN's successes and failures in these areas with important obstacles reducing its effectiveness, such as politics tearing it apart, a lack of resources, and a lack of enforcement power. The aim of the study is to assess the overall effectiveness of the UN and the external and internal challenges it is facing in conflict resolution.By means of this study, content analysis of secondary sources has been adopted, which included the official UN reports, resolutions and academic literature as well as the news articles and the expert analyses. By combing through these materials, the paper presents a comprehensive picture of the UN's interventions and outcomes of those interventions. Results from the research showed that although the UN has made significant attempts in intervening in situations, it is often disabled by political and structural constraints. The study concludes that there is a great need for reform in order to enhance the UN's ability to respond better and more impartially to global challenges.
An Analytical study of the Balance of Ecosystems: Islamic Teachings on the Harmony between Living and Non-Living Components of Nature
This paper examines the Islamic perspective on environmental balance, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between living and non-living components of the natural world. Islam presents nature as a divinely created and purposefully designed system in which every element functions within a precise order. Through an analysis of selected Qurʾānic verses and Aḥādīth, the study highlights how the Earth is portrayed as a perfectly balanced framework established by Allah. The concept of Mīzān is central to Islamic teachings and reflects the intricate interdependence that exists among all elements of ecological systems. Human beings are described in Islam as Khalīfah on Earth, entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining and protecting the environment. This stewardship entails the ethical use of natural resources, avoidance of wastefulness, and respect for all forms of life. The study also discusses the consequences of disrupting environmental balance, such as ecological degradation, climate instability, and social injustice, and links these outcomes to human negligence and ethical failure. Emphasis is placed on the importance of promoting environmental awareness through Islamic values and practices, including moderation, accountability, and collective responsibility. Ultimately, the paper underscores the relevance of Islamic teachings in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. By integrating spiritual consciousness with ecological responsibility, Islam provides a comprehensive ethical framework that encourages sustainable coexistence with nature and fosters a deep sense of respect for the environment as a trust from Allah.
Iqbāl's Concept of Ummah, the Palestinian Issue and Present Situation: An Intellectual Study
This research paper explores Allama Muḥammad Iqbāl’s concept of the Muslim Ummah (Millat) in the context of the Palestinian issue. Iqbāl conceptualized the Ummah not as a racial, ethnic, or territorial entity but as a spiritual and ideological community grounded in Islamic faith and shared moral values. His vision of Muslim unity transcends geographical boundaries and emphasizes a collective consciousness shaped by belief, purpose, and a common destiny. The paper examines Iqbāl’s deep concern for the suffering of Palestinian Muslims, as reflected in his poetry, prose writings, speeches, and letters. Iqbāl viewed the Palestinian issue not merely as a regional or political conflict but as a matter of profound significance for the entire Muslim world. He perceived it as a symbol of the broader decline and disunity of the Ummah. His writings strongly criticize Western imperialism and Zionist occupation, warning Muslims against political subjugation and intellectual dependency. Through a critical analysis of Iqbāl’s thought, the study highlights how his philosophy links spiritual awakening with political consciousness and moral responsibility. Iqbāl consistently called for self-realization (khudī), unity, and resistance against oppression as essential elements for the revival of the Muslim Ummah. The paper concludes that Iqbāl’s ideas remain highly relevant in the contemporary era. His emphasis on unity, faith-based solidarity, and resistance to injustice offers enduring intellectual and moral guidance for addressing ongoing challenges faced by Muslims, particularly the persistent humanitarian and political crisis in Palestine.
Measuring English Vocabulary Size of First and Last Semester Students of Foundation University
This study compares the English vocabulary knowledge of first-semester and final-semester students at Foundation University to examine the extent of vocabulary development during undergraduate education. The primary objective of the research is to determine whether students’ language proficiency, specifically vocabulary size, increases over the course of their university studies. The sample consists of one hundred undergraduate students drawn from various academic disciplines. Data were collected using TestYourVocab.com, an online vocabulary assessment tool. A descriptive and comparative research design was employed to analyze and compare the vocabulary sizes of the two groups. The findings indicate that final-semester students possess a larger English vocabulary than first-semester students, suggesting that vocabulary growth does occur over time in a university setting. However, the relatively modest difference between the two groups implies that vocabulary development may not occur naturally or sufficiently without deliberate instructional support. This finding highlights the limitations of incidental vocabulary acquisition in EFL contexts and underscores the need for structured and systematic vocabulary instruction. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous, vocabulary-focused teaching strategies in undergraduate English language programs. It also offers practical implications for English language teachers, curriculum developers, and academic institutions, suggesting that targeted vocabulary instruction can play a crucial role in enhancing students’ overall language proficiency and academic success.
First-Semester and Final-Semester Comparison
Stylistics of Iqbal: A Stylistic Analysis of “Shikwā”
Stylistics has long been recognized as the linguistic study of texts. In its contemporary understanding, however, stylistics extends beyond the analysis of linguistic components to examine how language choices convey meaning and produce aesthetic effects. Foregrounding is one of the central concepts in stylistic analysis. It refers to a technique through which a writer or poet deliberately deviates from or parallels conventional language patterns in order to attract the reader’s attention and establish a distinctive style. The long poem Shikwā by Muḥammad Iqbāl has remained an enduring favorite among Urdu literary critics and has increasingly drawn the attention of stylisticians. This paper seeks to explore how Iqbāl’s poetic style emerges through the systematic making and breaking of linguistic norms. It specifically examines the use of linguistic parallelism and linguistic deviation as key foregrounding devices that contribute to the poem’s stylistic richness. By analyzing these stylistic features, the study demonstrates how Iqbāl transforms language into a powerful expressive medium, enabling Shikwā to achieve both emotional depth and intellectual impact. The paper argues that the conscious manipulation of linguistic patterns not only enhances the poem’s aesthetic appeal but also secures its status as a timeless masterpiece of Urdu poetry.
Patriarchal Power and Nature: An Eco-Feministic Study of Sara Macdonald’s In a Kingdom by the Sea
Using the theoretical framework of ecofeminism, this article examines the intersection of feminism and ecology in Sara MacDonald’s novel In a Kingdom by the Sea. The study explores how the novel critiques patriarchal power structures by portraying women’s lived experiences and their relationship with the natural environment. Drawing on Karen J. Warren’s ecofeminist theory, the analysis highlights the parallel processes through which women are marginalized and nature is exploited within patriarchal societies. The article emphasizes how MacDonald’s narrative resists systems of domination and challenges hierarchical dualisms such as man/woman and nature/culture. By deconstructing these binaries, the novel reveals the interconnected oppression of women and the environment. The study argues that In a Kingdom by the Sea presents an ecofeminist vision that promotes harmony, care, and ethical responsibility toward both women and nature. Ultimately, the article demonstrates that MacDonald’s work not only critiques gender-based and ecological injustices but also offers an alternative perspective that foregrounds mutual respect, sustainability, and interconnectedness. Through an ecofeminist lens, the novel emerges as a powerful literary response to contemporary social and environmental concerns.
The Literary Formation of European Society in the Travelogue "Europe is Europe"
Travelogues have long occupied a significant place in understanding the social structure, history, and culture of different regions. In his travelogue Europe Is Europe, Yaqoob Nizami presents European society, history, and civilization with clarity and literary elegance, rendering the work valuable for both general readers and scholars of travel literature. During his travels across Italy, France, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland, the author not only documents historic monuments, cities, streets, lakes, and castles but also offers keen observations of social behavior, human values, and moral attitudes. This travelogue transcends the conventional boundaries of travel writing and emerges as a reflective and analytical account of European culture and society. Through his close engagement with everyday life, Yaqoob Nizami enables readers to experience European social realities, historical consciousness, and civilizational patterns from an intimate perspective. The narrative carefully examines local lifestyles, architectural aesthetics, social norms, and religious traditions, providing a nuanced portrayal of European society. A central argument advanced in the travelogue is that the true essence of civilization does not rest solely on material advancement or technological progress. Rather, it is rooted in human character, social responsibility, moral discipline, and a collective sense of justice. By emphasizing these values, Europe Is Europe offers a critical reflection on modern civilization and invites readers to reassess commonly held assumptions about progress and development. The travelogue thus stands as an insightful contribution to contemporary Urdu travel literature and cultural discourse.
An Analysis of the Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah Reflected in the Fatāwā
Fatwās in Islamic jurisprudence function not only as legal opinions but also as practical expressions of the higher objectives of the Sharīʿah, known as Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah. These objectives seek to preserve religion, life, intellect, lineage, and property, thereby ensuring human welfare in both spiritual and social dimensions. This study critically examines selected fatwās issued in Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan, through the analytical framework of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah in order to evaluate their conformity with the overarching aims of Islamic law. Employing a qualitative analytical methodology, the research analyzes fatwās related to religious practices, family and tribal disputes, financial matters, and contemporary social issues. The findings reveal that, in general, the fatwās under review uphold the core objectives of the Sharīʿah, particularly the protection of religion and life. However, certain rulings demonstrate limited engagement with contemporary social, psychological, and economic realities, indicating the need for a more comprehensive application of Maqāṣid-oriented reasoning. The study concludes that the systematic incorporation of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah into local fatwā practices can enhance their relevance, effectiveness, and responsiveness to modern societal challenges. Such an approach would contribute to a more balanced, just, and context-sensitive application of Islamic legal guidance, aligning traditional jurisprudence with contemporary needs.
Fatwās, Islamic jurisprudence, Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Sharīʿah objectives, Legal reasoning, Social justice, Contemporary issues, Qualitative analysis, Islamic legal guidance.
An Analysis of the Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah and Qawāʿid Fiqhiyyah Discussed in Imdād al-Aḥkām
This research article examines the application of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah (the Objectives of Islamic Law) and Qawāʿid Fiqhiyyah (Islamic legal maxims) as reflected in the renowned fiqh compendium Imdād al-Aḥkām. The work comprises the juristic verdicts (fatāwā) of two eminent scholars of the Indian subcontinent, Mawlānā Ẓafar Aḥmad ʿUthmānī and Muftī ʿAbd al-Karīm Gumat̤hlawī. Their scholarly contributions represent a rich synthesis of Ḥanafī jurisprudence, Prophetic traditions, reports of the Companions, and foundational principles of Islamic legal theory. The study begins with an overview of Imdād al-Aḥkām, focusing on its compilation, structure, and the juristic methodologies adopted by its authors. It then presents an analytical examination of selected fatāwā in light of the five universally recognized objectives of the Sharīʿah: the protection of religion (ḥifẓ al-dīn), life (ḥifẓ al-nafs), intellect (ḥifẓ al-ʿaql), lineage (ḥifẓ al-nasl), and property (ḥifẓ al-māl). Through representative case studies, the article demonstrates how these objectives are consistently integrated into legal reasoning, ensuring a balance between adherence to textual sources and consideration of social welfare. Moreover, the research highlights the extensive use of major legal maxims—such as al-yaqīn lā yazūlu bi al-shakk (certainty is not removed by doubt)—in resolving complex juristic issues. This methodological reliance reinforces coherence, moderation, and consistency in legal verdicts. The findings reveal that Imdād al-Aḥkām is not merely a compilation of fatāwā but a comprehensive model of principled jurisprudence grounded in maqāṣid-oriented and rule-based reasoning. The study concludes by emphasizing the work’s continued relevance for contemporary Islamic legal discourse and recommends further academic research, curricular inclusion, and digital preservation of this significant juristic legacy.
Imdād al-Aḥkām, Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah, Qawāʿid Fiqhiyyah, Ḥanafī jurisprudence, Fatāwā, Islamic legal theory, Juristic reasoning, Mawlānā Ẓafar Aḥmad ʿUthmānī, Muftī ʿAbd al-Karīm Gumat̤hlawi.
A Social and Feminist Analysis of the Autobiography of Māh Pārah Ṣafdar
Mahpārah Ṣafdar is a renowned newsreader, columnist, and journalist who began her professional career in 1977 as a newscaster with Pakistan Television (PTV). In 1980, she joined Radio Pakistan News, further strengthening her presence in broadcast journalism. In 1990, she became part of the BBC Urdu Service, where she served for twenty-five years, presenting various programs and contributing columns based on her personal memories and professional experiences for the BBC Urdu website. In 2022, she published her autobiography, Mērā Zamāna, Merī Kahānī, through Jhelum Book Corner. The autobiography is divided into three major parts: the first focuses on her childhood, the second narrates her university life along with reflections on Pakistan’s political history from 1970 to 1980, and the third documents her experiences as a journalist working in London with the BBC Urdu Service. Through her life journey, Mahpārah Ṣafdar addresses numerous personal and professional challenges that reflect broader societal issues, particularly social inequality and systemic constraints faced by women within a patriarchal framework. Her narrative highlights the significance of feminist consciousness in interpreting these experiences and illustrates how she negotiated space, agency, and recognition within a male-dominated media industry. The autobiography thus serves as an important text for understanding the intersection of gender, media, and social structures in contemporary South Asian society.
Reality vs. Simulation: A Postmodernist Analysis of the Hyperreality in Agency by Gibson
This research examines how Agency by Gibson depicts Baudrillard’s (1981) concept of the precession of simulacra. The research particularly investigates the gradual disappearance of reality through four stages of simulation. It employs qualitative textual analysis as its primary method and employs Baudrillard’s (1981) framework as a theoretical framework. The findings reveal that Agency mirrors Baudrillard’s four stages. The first order retains referential realism. The second distorts reality through algorithmic mediation. The third order exposes the absence of an original referent through the concept of the stub, and the fourth order achieves full hyperreality embodied in the autonomous AI, Eunice. The findings demonstrated that in the digital age, representation not only replaces but also generates reality. The research contributes to postmodern literary scholarship by confirming that Gibson’s Agency does not merely depict hyperreality, but it also performs it. These findings reinforce Baudrillard’s (1981) view that simulation has become the dominant mode of postmodern literature. Future research could further explore how contemporary digital fiction continues to enact this transition from representation to pure simulation, offering new perspectives on the ontology of the postmodern novel.
G͟hulām Aḥmad Parvēz’s Thought: An Analytical Review of Traditional Religious Practices
This study presents an analytical review of traditional religious practices—such as wasīlah (intercession), taʿvīẓ va dam (amulets and incantations), and ʿurs (saintly commemorations)—in the perspective of Ghulam Ahmad Parwez’s thought. Parwez, a prominent twentieth-century Qur’an-oriented reformist scholar, critically challenged ritualistic and mystical elements that, in his view, emerged from post-Qur’anic traditions and cultural influences rather than from the original Islamic message. According to Parwez, practices involving the seeking of spiritual assistance through saints, objects, or rituals undermine the Qur’anic concept of tawḥīd and human accountability, shifting focus from personal effort and Divine guidance to intermediaries and supernatural expectations. This research explores Parwez’s epistemological framework, which prioritizes the Qur’an as the sole authoritative source for belief and practice, while questioning the role of classical jurisprudence, Sufi traditions, and popular religiosity in shaping Muslim society. The study further examines his criticism of shrine culture and the commercialization of religious rituals, arguing that such practices reinforce passivity, social stagnation, and dependency on religious authorities. Through textual analysis of Parwez’s writings and contemporary scholarly evaluations, the research highlights both the strengths and limitations of his reformist approach. The findings suggest that Parwez’s critique contributes significantly to modern Islamic reform discourse by advocating rationality, socio-economic development, and direct engagement with the Qur’anic worldview. However, his dismissal of centuries-old interpretive traditions has also been viewed as reductionist by many scholars. Overall, the study offers a balanced assessment of Parwez’s perspectives and their implications for understanding traditional religious practices in contemporary Muslim contexts.
Discourses on Rhythm in Urdu Prose Poetry
The Urdu prose poem represents a critical juncture in the evolution of Urdu literary aesthetics, situated between the classical traditions of metrical poetry and the innovations of Western literary forms. Classical Urdu poetry, deeply influenced by Arabic and Persian prosody, has always regarded āhang (rhythm) as central to poetic expression, closely tied to meter, rhyme, and musicality. The introduction of the prose poem challenged these conventions, raising questions about whether poetry can exist without traditional metrics and how rhythm could be realized in a form that is primarily prosaic.Critics such as Dr. Unwan Chishti, Dr. Ibn-e-Fareed, Karamat Ali Karamat, Wazir Agha, Gopi Chand Narang, and Anis Nagi have explored this problem by distinguishing between ʿarūḍī āhang (metrical rhythm) and dākhilī or organic rhythm. While metrical rhythm depends on syllabic patterns, the internal rhythm of the prose poem emerges from semantic flow, emotional intensity, and syntactic modulation. This shift underscores the Urdu prose poem’s experimental nature: it negotiates the inherited poetic norms while striving for an independent rhythm derived from linguistic and thematic dynamics rather than prosody.The debates highlight a persistent tension: traditionalists see rhythm as inseparable from poetry, whereas modernists argue that the prose poem generates its own musicality through expression and thought. Consequently, Urdu prose poetry remains a contested yet innovative form, where rhythm is redefined and poetry is expanded beyond classical structures. Its significance lies not only in challenging the conventional notion of āhang but also in establishing a distinctive aesthetic space that bridges the continuity of Urdu literary tradition with modern experimentation.