Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
Eid Milad-un-Nabi
Eid Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, is celebrated in the memory of Prophet Muhammed (pbuh). The Prophet was born on the twelfth day of Rabi-ul-Awwal in 570 C.E Saudi Arabia, Mecca. Rabi-ul-Awwal is the third month of the Mus-lim year. Eid Milad-un-Nabi is both, a time to rejoice and a time to mourn, since the Prophet passed away on the same day. Eid Milad-un-Nabi is celebrated on the twelfth day of the third month of the Islamic calendar, Rabi-ul-Awwal. It is celebrated to commemorate the birthday of the Proph-et (pbuh).
On this day, special prayers are held in mosques. Islamic scholars deliver sermons largely focusing on the life, teachings and noble deeds of the Prophet. Alms-giving is a common practice in this festival.
Muhammad was the last messenger of God. He was sent as a messenger to the entire mankind as a guide to show them the right path. His teachings are still preva-lent today and are followed by many people around the world. It encourages us to love and respect each other and to treat women fairly, no matter what caste or com-munity they belong to.
— Jubel D’Cruz,
Mumbai, India
Corruption menace
Corruption is dishonest and illegal conduct that plagues our society. In Islam, it’s considered a grave sin to snatch someone’s rights through corrupt actions. This issue is rampant in Paki-stan, affecting various sectors, including education, government and law enforcement, par-ticularly in Sindh and Balochistan. The impact of corruption is detrimental, harming the country’s economy and political stability. Sadly, Pakistan, an Islamic nation, ranks among the most corrupt countries globally, as reported in December 2022. The police force is often identified as one of the most corrupt entities. Instances of corruption, such as illegal taxation and harassment of citizens, are com-mon, as witnessed in Turbat city. This situation is disheartening for all Pakistanis.
To combat corruption, strict laws must be enacted. Islam condemns unlawfully acquired wealth, warning of dire consequences in the afterlife. It’s crucial to educate our children about the evils of corruption and work collectively to change our society for the better.
JANNAT KHUDADAD
Karachi
Afghanistan’s diplomatic landscape
Diplomatic efforts regarding Afghanistan have been ongoing since the Taliban’s return to power. Iran hosted a conference to improve security and economic conditions, while the Eco-nomic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and India also held meetings. The “Samarkand Dia-logue” and UN talks in Doha aimed to address various issues, but Afghanistan’s recognition as a government remained a challenge. The US had direct talks with the Taliban in Doha, focusing on economic issues, security, and women’s rights. Afghanistan’s mineral wealth and strategic location make it attractive to regional players, such as China and India. Russia has interests due to its Central Asian ties. Pakistan plays a central role in Afghan affairs, and the fight against groups like ISIS remains a challenge. Afghanistan’s inclusion in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) could stabilize the region. Key concerns include women’s rights, inclusivity, drug trafficking, terrorism, development and global connectivity. Engagement with the Taliban is recognized as necessary to address these issues. .
RAHIM DAD
Peshawar
Religious tension in Europe
Europe has recently witnessed a disturbing trend of disrespect towards Islam’s holiest sym-bols. Over the past few months, instances of the Quran being burned or violated in European settings have increased.
The most recent incident occurred in the Netherlands on September 23rd when the leader of the Dutch branch of Pegida, a notorious pan-European hate group, desecrated the holy book near several Muslim embassies.
It’s important to note that these attacks on Islamic beliefs are not driven by a commitment to free speech but rather by deep-seated animosity. Many of the individuals involved in these hateful acts are affiliated with the same violent white nationalist ideologies responsible for tragedies like the Christchurch and Montreal shootings.
In a world striving for human development based on mutual respect and tolerance, such actions undermine these efforts. We cannot achieve a harmonious global society if the sacred symbols of major religions continue to be targeted and violated.
AMREEN NOOR
Karachi
