Journal of World Religions and Interfaith Harmony

A Comprehensive Analytical Study on the Quran, Creation of Life, Existence of Life in the Universe, Possibility of Extraterrestrial Beings, and Scientific Research

Saima Parveen, Dr. Yasmeen Waseem, Prof. Dr. H M Noor ul Huda Khan Asghar — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This research highlights the creation of the universe and life in the context of Quranic verses and modern scientific discoveries. The study links the Big Bang theory with the Islamic perspective, explaining that the Quranic verse from Surah Al-Anbiya, "كَانَتَا رَتْقًا فَفَتَقْنٰهُمَا" (They were joined together, and We separated them), aligns with the concept of the Big Bang. Various Islamic scholars, including Qari Muhammad Tayyab, Syed Maududi, Dr. Israr Ahmad, and Riffat Ijaz, have provided profound interpretations regarding the creation of the universe.

According to scientists, the origin of life began with water, which is consistent with the Quranic verse "وَجَعَلْنَا مِنَ الْمَاۗءِ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ حَيٍّ" (We made every living thing from water). This research highlights the role of water in the formation of DNA and the fundamental elements of life. Modern astronomical studies, including research by Nobel Laureate James Peebles and other scientists, further support the idea that the evolution of the universe follows a structured scientific process.

The study also explores the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Planets and moons such as Venus, Mars, and Jupiter's moon Europa have been identified as potential celestial bodies that could harbor life due to the presence of water reserves. The Islamic perspective also suggests that Allah has created life in the heavens and the earth, further strengthening this hypothesis.

Qur'anic Citations in Karen Armstrong's "Muhammad: A Prophet for Our Time"

Dr. Abdul Rehman, Rukhsana Tabassum, Syed Adeel Shah — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Karen Armstrong is one of the leading orientalists interested in the study of Islam. She has published two books on the biography of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). One of them is titled "Muhammad: The Prophet of Our Time". In this book, the author has presented a number of discussions in a narrative and analytical manner on various aspects of the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). At some points, Karen has provided answers to the objections of non-Muslim writers regarding prophetic role of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), however, in many places, she has maintained the continuity of the Orientalist narrative. In her book, she has presented some verses of the Holy Quran as evidence to raise doubts and suspicions regarding the personality of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his character, his companions and wives, and has tried to prove that the doubts she has presented are based on Quranic verses. When an ordinary reader reads this book, he may be confused by seeing a new narrative related to the Holy Quran and Prophet (PBUH) at the same time. Therefore, it is necessary to identify from an Islamic perspective those parts of Karen's book in which the objections are based on the Holy Quran. This article fulfills this need.

An Analytical Study of the Noble Contributions of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Ancestors in the Administration of Makkah Mukarramah

Syed Abul Majid Shah Syed, Dr.Tahira Batool — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The tradition of serving the pilgrims of the Kaaba and ensuring their hospitality has been a noble legacy upheld by the ancestors of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). From Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who excavated the well of Zamzam, to Qusay ibn Kilab, who established the systems of Siqayah (providing water) and Rifadah (providing food), the leaders of Makkah prioritized the comfort of Hajj pilgrims.

Hashim ibn Abd Manaf, known for his generosity during famine, expanded these services, while Abdul-Muttalib revived the lost well of Zamzam and emphasized feeding the needy. Abu Talib, despite financial hardships, continued this tradition by borrowing funds to host pilgrims, demonstrating unwavering dedication to hospitality.

This historical account highlights the deep-rooted values of generosity, service, and respect for the guests of Allah’s House—a legacy that laid the foundation for Islamic teachings on Hajj and hospitality.

An Introductory and Comparatively Review of the Pluralistic Society of the Present Era and Pluralistic Society of Madinah Munawwarah

Dr. Asma Aziz, Taiba Ramzan, Zulekha Akbar — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A pluralistic society values and respects the differences in culture, religion, and beliefs among people. It allows different groups to live together while keeping their unique identities. Tolerance, equality, and fairness are key ideas in such a society. People are encouraged to understand each other through conversation and learning. Differences are seen as something that makes society stronger. Everyone is given equal rights and opportunities. People from all backgrounds can take part in making decisions. The society works to reduce unfair treatment and discrimination. A pluralistic society creates a sense of belonging for all its members. It celebrates diversity as an important part of community life. After the migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Madina became a model of a pluralistic society, where people from different ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds lived peacefully together. They all agreed to live under the "Constitution of Madina," which protected the rights and freedoms of all groups. Thus, Madina became an example of a society based on respect and peaceful coexistence.

The Prominence of Kinship in Valuable Society: A Thematic Study of the Prophet’s Social Life

Dr. Muhammad Afzal — Fri, 30 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Human beings are inherently social creatures, designed by Allah to live in communities and form relationships. Islam recognizes the importance of familial ties and places immense emphasis on maintaining and nurturing relations with relatives. From the moment a person is born, Allah establishes certain kinship bonds that form the foundation of mutual care, support, and sacrifice. These relationships can be both consanguineous and non-consanguineous, including both maḥram and non-maḥram connections. Islamic teachings provide detailed rights and responsibilities towards relatives, including the allocation of inheritance and guidance on conflict resolution. The Holy Qur’an and Sunnah strongly condemn the act of cutting off ties with relatives (qaṭʿ al-raḥim) and warn of spiritual consequences, including deprivation from Paradise. Conversely, those who maintain kinship ties (ṣilat al-raḥim) are promised divine blessings, increased sustenance, and prolonged life.

The Prophetic model exemplifies compassion, patience, and forbearance in dealing with relatives—even those who are unjust or unkind. The Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him) consistently upheld family ties through acts of generosity, forgiveness, and emotional support, setting an unparalleled example for the Muslim Ummah.

This thematic study explores the Prophetic methodology in nurturing and sustaining healthy relationships with kins.It aims to highlight the social significance of familial relations in valuable society. The Prophet's interactions with his relatives demonstrate important lessons on compassion, respect, and responsibility. He (P.H.U.H) treated relatives with kindness and generosity served as a model for Muslims.

Contemporary Models of Governance Integrating Sharia and State: A Comparative Study

Fahmeeda Riaz, Umar Raheel — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The article explores how Islamic governance integrates Shariah principles with state systems, beginning with historical examples from the leadership of Prophets Ibrahim (A.S.), Musa (A.S.), and Muhammad (PBUH). Each of these prophets demonstrated not only spiritual but also political leadership based on justice, monotheism, and divine law. Prophet Ibrahim’s governance focused on truth, social reform, and submission to God’s will. Prophet Musa’s leadership involved confronting tyranny, implementing divine commandments, and establishing a consultative system of justice. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) laid the foundation of an Islamic state in Medina through treaties, social harmony (Muakhaat), and the Constitution of Medina, promoting justice, tolerance, and unity. The article then reviews how modern Muslim countries apply Shariah today. In Pakistan, Islamic principles are constitutionally embedded, with institutions like the Federal Shariat Court and Islamic Ideology Council guiding law-making. Iran follows the theocratic model of Wilayat al-Faqih, while Saudi Arabia uses Hanbali jurisprudence as the foundation of governance. Other countries like *Sudan, Malaysia, Afghanistan, and Brunei implement Shariah to varying degrees in legal and social matters. The article concludes by highlighting non-prophetic but Islamic leadership models (e.g., Khilafat), emphasizing justice, consultation, and moral integrity, drawing on the legacy of the Rightly Guided Caliphs and classical scholars like Al-Mawardi.

Commends of the Grave in the Semitic Religions

Hafiza Aqsa khan, Dr. Sadia Gulzar — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Life is the name of coming into this world and death is the name of coming back from this world. The short time between coming and going, which we all have, is precious. The grave is the last house of the world and the first door of the house of the hereafter.The study of the doctrines of the grave is an important subject in the Semitic religions. History has shown that the grave has been associated with the nations of the past. Judaism and Christianity believe in death but have no idea of life in grave and at the same time there are many false beliefs which are considered as polytheism in Islam. According to these religions, a grave is just a name for burying a person and being buried in the dust. Islam teaches man about the grave and all beliefs about the grave. Grave life is called Barzaq. The purpose of this research paper is to provide a comparison of commands of graves in Semitic religions. The research paper followed descriptive and analytical methods.

The Issue of the Ascension and Second Coming of Prophet Isa AH: Perspective of Javed Ahmad Ghamdi and Dr. Israr Ahmad

Hafsa Anwar — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The majority of Muslims in this world follow the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah exactly, but there is room for debate and conflict over things that are not mentioned in the Holy Quran. Muslims believe in Ahadith (saying of the Prophetﷺ) because Ahadith upholds the utmost importance after the verses of the Quran. However, some people among Muslims argue about Ahadith's authenticity and reserve a parallel opinion instead of accepting it as it is, especially while giving arguments on some specific topics. One such topic is whether or not Prophet Isa ascended and will return to this world. This study provides the opinion of two renowned contemporary scholars, Javed Ahmad Ghamidi and Dr. Israr Ahmad. The study debates through the Quranic verses that Prophet Isa died or ascended to the heavens and includes the famous Ahadith related to his ascension and second coming to this world. The study also discusses the people who are categorically against the return of Prophet Isa and their evidence about it. The study includes the opinion of Javed Ahmad Ghamdi about this belief and his statement about the difference between verses ofi ithe Quran and the Ahadithii of the iProphet. The study also discusses Christianity's belief in the Prophet Isa. It explains how the second coming of Prophet Isa is a cornerstone of Islamic eschatology. Authentic Hadiths from the Prophet Muhammad confirm his return before the Day of Judgement. The ascension and second coming of Prophet Isa show thoughtful aspects for Muslims, whether they find it extremely unusual. There is a consensus among Islamic scholars that this event indeed unfolds Allah's divine plan. These beliefs not only affirm the truth of Islam but also guide Muslims in preparing for the ultimate accountability before Allah while having belief in the Ahadith of the Holy Prophet.

Urdu Scholarship on Religions: A Study of Genres and Themes

Dr. Yasir Arfat — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This article presents a comprehensive overview of the extensive Urdu literature(books) available on world religions. It categorizes the writings into ten distinct types: comparative studies, biographies of religious founders, works focused on individual religions, academic textbooks, translations from other languages, studies on sacred scriptures, polemical literature, poetic works, writings on diverse theological topics, and literature promoting interfaith dialogue and harmony. The Urdu language, with its rich literary tradition, has played a significant role in documenting and discussing the beliefs, histories, and philosophies of various religions, including Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Zoroastrianism. While Islam remains the most extensively covered topic, significant scholarly material also exists on other major faiths. It references several bibliographic sources and surveys to underscore the diversity and depth of this literary corpus. The study underscores the importance of religious understanding and mutual respect in today’s interconnected world. By mapping the thematic scope of Urdu religious writings, the article provides a valuable resource for researchers. It encourages further academic work in the field to foster interreligious awareness and harmony.

An Analytical Study of Rudolph Peters' views on Implementation of Islamic Criminal law in the Ottoman Empire

Muhammad, Prof. Dr. Abdul Qadir Buzdar — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Rudolph. F. Peters' opinions on the application of Islamic criminal law in the Ottoman Empire, as expressed in her ground breaking book "Crime and Punishment in Islamic Law: Theory and Practice from the Sixteenth to the Twenty-First Century," are examined critically in this essay. Peters provides a thoughtful analysis of how Ottoman rulers applied traditional Islamic law while also modifying legal procedures to accommodate political and administrative realities.
The study looks at how Sharia law and qanun (sultanic legislation) are balanced, how ḥudūd punishments are applied selectively, and how state power shapes criminal justice more broadly. The study emphasizes Peters' contention that the Ottoman legal system, despite having its roots in Islamic principles, showed practical flexibility in applying criminal laws through a historical-legal analysis.

Understanding Hinduism Through the Eyes of Al-Beruni: An Analysis of His Observations and Critiques in “Kitab fi Tahqiq ma li'l-Hind”

Saamia Rehman — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Al-Beruni’s “Kitab fi Tahqiq ma li'l-Hind” (commonly known as Al-Beruni’s India) is a landmark text in cross-cultural studies, written in the early 11th century. The book offers an in-depth analysis of Indian society, particularly focusing on Hindu religious and philosophical thought. Al-Biruni’s work is distinguished by its meticulous approach, as he learned Sanskrit, engaged with local scholars, and studied key Hindu texts like the Vedas and Upanishads. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Al-Biruni approached his subject with an unusual degree of objectivity and respect, aiming to bridge intellectual gaps between Islamic and Hindu civilizations. His analysis includes a detailed study of Hindu cosmology, theology, and metaphysics, particularly focusing on the concepts of Brahman (the ultimate reality) and Atman (the individual soul). Al-Biruni’s most significant critique is directed at Hindu polytheism and idol worship, which he contrasts sharply with Islamic monotheism. Nevertheless, he acknowledges the monistic tendencies within Hindu philosophy, noting that many Hindu thinkers ultimately posit a singular divine essence. The English translation by Dr. Edward C. Sachau, published in 1888, further popularized the text, preserving its scholarly rigor while making it accessible to a wider audience. Sachau’s translation, though praised for its accuracy and extensive commentary, has been critiqued for reflecting certain 19th-century Orientalist biases. This paper explores his treatment of Hinduism, analyzing his observations and critiques within the broader socio-cultural and religious context. Al-Biruni’s work, coupled with Sachau’s translation, continues to be a critical source for historians, theologians, and scholars of comparative religion, offering timeless insights into intercultural understanding and scholarly objectivity. Overall, “Kitab fi Tahqiq ma li'l-Hind” stands out for its empathetic scholarship, providing a rare medieval Islamic perspective on Hinduism that values comprehension over condemnation.

The Prohibition of Gambling; A study in Islamic Perspective

Samra Naeem — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The primary aim of this study is to enlighten the new emerging issues i.e. “Gambling”. In this modern era, the different forms of gambling are growing so fast in so many ways. Islamic economics covered a wide range of socio-economic issues, which are very catastrophic for the well-being and prosperity of Muslim States. Gambling is the most important yet unnoticeable issue of the current era. Generations are getting addicted to online gambling day by day. In this paper, the major factors have discussed which promotes the modern trends and forms of gambling. The prohibition of Gambling has clearly discussed through the lens of Islam. Major reasons and factors like, “Poverty, Unemployment and Lust of wealth” have discussed to cope up with this illegal action inspired by Satan. The gambling has many socio-economic impacts which can destroy Muslim society, Individuals and their personal lives in this world and hereafter. These impacts include financial hardships and debt, employment issues, crimes and social inequality. The recommendations have presented in order to sum up this issue in Islamic society and prevent our generations from this prohibited and catastrophic action.

Analytical Study of Major Themes of the Bhagavad Gita

Dr. Sabir Naz, Dr. Junaid Rashid — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, offers profound philosophical and spiritual guidance through a dialogue between Prince Arjun and Lord Krishn on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. This study explores its major themes, categorizing them into three primary paths: Karm Yog (selfless action), Bhakti Yog (devotion), and Gyaan Yog (knowledge). The Gita emphasizes duty (swadharm), selfless action (Nishkama Karm), detachment (vairagya), and renunciation (sannyasa) as fundamental principles for ethical living and spiritual growth. It underscores the importance of controlling the mind and senses, practicing meditation (Dhyan Yog), and cultivating devotion (Bhakti) as a means of attaining divine realization. The scripture further explores the nature of God (Ishvar), the eternal self (Atman), the cycle of birth and death (samsaar), and the pursuit of ultimate liberation (moksh). The influence of the three gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas) on human behavior and decision-making is examined, along with the essential role of faith (shraddha) and a spiritual master (satt-guru) in guiding seekers toward self-realization. The Gita’s revelation of the universal form (Vishvaroop) highlights the interconnectedness of all existence and the supremacy of divine wisdom. By integrating philosophical depth with practical teachings, the Bhagavad Gita provides a timeless framework for personal transformation, ethical conduct, and spiritual enlightenment. Its principles transcend religious boundaries, offering universal guidance on living a life of righteousness, devotion, and self-awareness.

Science and the Divine Nature of the Holy Qur’ān

Dr. Faraz Mansoor — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Holy Qur’ān, revealed in the 7th century CE to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), contains verses that align strikingly with discoveries in modern science. This paper highlights selected examples where Qur’ānic statements correspond with contemporary scientific understanding, reinforcing the view of its divine origin. Topics such as human embryonic development, lactation physiology, the therapeutic benefits of honey, the expanding universe, and the preservation of Pharaoh’s body are explored in relation to scientific literature. The Qur’ānic description of embryogenesis in Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:12–14) reflects remarkable precision, acknowledged by modern embryologists. Similarly, the recommendation of a two-year breastfeeding period aligns with current medical guidelines and evidence showing long-term health benefits for both mother and child. Surah An-Nahl (16:69) describes honey as a healing agent, a claim supported by clinical trials and meta-analyses highlighting its wound-healing and antimicrobial properties. The Qur’ān’s reference to the expanding universe (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:47) parallels the Big Bang theory. Furthermore, the preservation of Pharaoh’s body as mentioned in Surah Yunus (10:92) is consistent with modern forensic findings of Pharaoh Merneptah’s well-preserved mummy. These examples suggest that the Qur’ān contains timeless knowledge far beyond the scientific understanding of its era, supporting its divine origin.

Qur’ānic Foundations of Interfaith: Is Da‘wah (Calling to God) Interfaith?

Dr. Tanveer Azmat — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The paper addresses two questions: does the Qur’ān commands interfaith and is interfaith Da‘wah (calling people to the worship of one God)? First, it will discuss what interfaith means today. Interfaith has moved from the medieval “exclusive attitudes (that) promote suspicion and disdain of the other traditions”. Further, it has also moved from pluralism’s desire to tolerate other religious traditions to celebrate the other. The paper will reflect on āyah (verse) 48 of Sūrah (Chapter) 5 to establish a firm Qur’ānic foundation for the diversity of religions required by the Qur’ān. The āyah informs if God willed He would have made the whole humankind united in one religious community (ummatan wāḥidatan), but He chose not to do that. Instead, He wants to test us in the religious community we claim ours. God wants diversity of religious practices as it creates conditions in which religious communities can compete with each other in doing good (khayr). Finally, the Qur’ān commands ta‘āraf (get to know each other) and ta‘āwan (cooperation) in doing good (49: 13 & 5: 2 respectively), two key goals of interfaith movement today. The paper concludes interfaith meets Qur’ānic commands of ta‘āraf and ta‘āwan. Therefore, Muslims should engage in the interfaith movement. However, ta‘āraf and ta‘āwan only do not meet the requirement of Da‘wah. Da‘wah requires to intentionally invite people to the worship of one God. Whereas interfaith is not about calling others to one’s faith.

Lessons from the Missions of Prophets Nūḥ and Hūd to the Contemporary Missionaries

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Prophets Nūḥ and Ḥūd were representatives of Allah sent purposely to promote oneness of Allah and abhor various forms of indecency that were the order of the day in their communities. However, their messages were not received raptly by their people except a few weak people while the affluent among them flagrantly rejected the da‘wah. They mocked the prophets, ridiculed them, cast aspersions on them, derided them and labelled them. Yet, the Prophets were resilient, patient, consistent and steadfast in the delivery of the divine messages. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to infer lessons from the teachings of the duo for the benefit of the contemporary missionaries who also experience similar misdemeanours, pioneered by the disciples of the two Prophets, from the recipients of da‘wah . Through the use of historical method, this work unfolded that the ordeal of the two Prophets is replete with abundant lessons that can be harnessed to transform the contemporary missionaries for positive influence of their immediate environment.

An Assessment of the Doctrine of Eternal Security in the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Nigeria and its Challenges in the 21st Century

Dr. Mary Taiye Daniel — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

One of the major doctrines in Christianity is the doctrine of salvation, which finds its deepest meaning in the spiritual aspect of life. Its fulfillment is held vigorously in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ which brought about salvation which is the highest goal of Christianity. In the ‘Articles of faith and practice’ of different churches, teachings on salvation vary in content but not in goal. This variation was compounded by the unanimity in the doctrines of churches that God is holy and has zero tolerance for sin. Within this contest, these schools of thought emerged namely: Calvinism and Armenianism. In Calvinism, God offered grace to those whom He elected to save in the exercise of His sovereign power, while in Armenianism God’s grace was the source of redemption but could be resisted by people through free choice. The doctrine of ECWA as their articles of faith and practice confirmed Calvinism. The objectives of the paper were to determine the import of sin and how the doctrine of eternal security could remain intact where sin did not abound. The research methods used were historical and interpretative. Some major findings were; though some Christian denominations do not profess the doctrine of eternal security, there is a reflection of the doctrine in some, and once God’s exercise of sovereignty was not denied, this attribute would as well blend with God’s grace not to sin; sin and the practice of it could be said to be voluntary; the Calvinists and Arminians need God’s grace as strong bottom-line for the achievement of eternity. The element of faith accompanied with repentance is the acknowledgment of the truth of the gospel. It is recommended that Christians should be diligent, hopeful and upright for the attainment of eternal security.