Tuesday, 19 August 2025

Qiyamat-e-Sughra (The Minor Doomsday) Do you know why such disasters are called Qiyamat-e-Sughra (Minor Doomsday)?

Qiyamat-e-Sughra (The Minor Doomsday)

Do you know why such disasters are called Qiyamat-e-Sughra (Minor Doomsday)?

Because when one has to carry the corpses of their loved ones with their own hands… when those innocent children, who could not even bear a single scratch, are lifted in pieces, torn and mutilated, in the arms of their parents—this truly is nothing less than a Minor Doomsday.

In district Buner, the death toll from the cloudburst and floods has exceeded 400, with thousands more injured.

According to official reports:

  • 2,300 houses, 127 shops, and 639 vehicles have been completely destroyed.

  • 824 shops and 413 houses have been partially damaged.

  • 4,054 livestock have perished.

  • 2 police stations, 6 government schools, and 2 large bridges have been completely washed away.

  • 4 bridges and 3 government hospitals have suffered partial damage.

Just the thought of this devastation sends shivers down one’s spine—entire areas have been wiped off the map. It is imperative that whatever aid can be managed must be sent through reliable and trustworthy people who are actually present there.

Unfortunately, one of our greatest tragedies as a nation is that even death is exploited for profit. In such times, many fake organizations and individuals will collect donations under the name of Buner. Therefore, search for authentic sources and donate only to those who are physically there on the ground. If possible, send food supplies and essential items directly.

Thousands have been rendered homeless, children have been orphaned, women widowed, and the elderly have lost not only their lifelong savings but also their families.

May Allah Almighty protect every living soul from such trials and calamities.

اعتراض: اگر خدا ایک ہے تو دین (قانون) بھی ایک ہونا چاہیے۔ جواب دیکھیں

 

اعتراض:

اگر خدا ایک ہے تو دین (قانون) بھی ایک ہونا چاہیے۔ کسی امت کے لیے ایک چیز حرام اور دوسری امت کے لیے وہی چیز حلال کیوں ہے؟

 

الزامی جواب:

تمھارے ملک میں حکومت ایک ہی ہے لیکن بچوں، بڑوں اور فوجیوں کے قوانین مختلف ہیں۔ کیا اس سے حکومتیں کئی ہو گئیں؟ اگر حکومت کے بدلتے قوانین پر تمھیں اعتراض نہیں تو خدا کے بدلتے احکام پر کیوں ہے؟

 

سائلی جواب:

اگر ڈاکٹر ایک ہے تو پھر سب مریضوں کو ایک ہی دوا کیوں نہیں دیتا؟ کیا ایک ڈاکٹر کی دوائیوں کا فرق اس کی واحد شخصیت کو ختم کر دیتا ہے؟ تو پھر ایک خدا کے مختلف احکام اس کی وحدانیت کے خلاف کیسے ہوئے؟

 

منطقی جواب:

معترض کا اعتراض ایک مغالطے پر مبنی ہے۔

 

مغالطہ:

معترض یہ فرض کر رہا ہے کہ اللہ کی وحدانیت کا لازمی نتیجہ یہ ہے کہ ہر زمانے میں ایک ہی قانون ہو۔ حالانکہ اللہ واحد ہے مگر اس کی شریعتیں مختلف زمانوں اور قوموں کی ضروریات کے لحاظ سے مختلف رہیں۔

 

مثال بلا تشبیہ:

جیسے ایک ہی ڈاکٹر ایک ہی مریض کو مختلف اوقات میں مختلف دوائیں دیتا ہے، اسی طرح ایک ہی خدا مختلف قوموں کے حالات و ضروریات کے لحاظ سے مختلف احکام دیتا رہا۔ تو اختلاف، وحدانیت کے خلاف نہیں بلکہ حکمت کی دلیل ہے۔

 

ترکی بہ ترکی جواب:

ایک ہی حکومت ہوتی ہے مگر پرائمری، سیکنڈری اور یونیورسٹی کے طلبہ کے لیے مختلف نصاب ہوتے ہیں۔ کیا اس سے حکومتیں کئی ہو جاتی ہیں؟ بالکل نہیں، ایک ہی حکومت مختلف درجات کے مطابق قانون دیتی ہے۔

 

مثالی جواب:

جیسے ایک استاد پورے سال میں ایک ہی کلاس کو مختلف اوقات میں مختلف اسباق پڑھاتا ہے۔ کبھی ریاضی، کبھی سائنس، کبھی فلسفہ۔ استاد ایک ہے مگر نصاب مختلف ہوتا ہے۔ اسی طرح اللہ ایک ہے مگر اس نے مختلف امتوں کو ان کے وقت کے حساب سے مختلف شریعت دی۔

 

اصولی جواب:

اہلِ سنت کے نزدیک عقیدہ (توحید و رسالت و آخرت) ہمیشہ سے ایک ہے۔ شریعت (جزوی احکام) حالات و مصالح کے اعتبار سے بدلتے رہے ہیں۔ قرآن میں صاف ہے: لِكُلٍّ جَعَلْنَا مِنكُمْ شِرْعَةً وَمِنْهَاجًا (المائدہ: 48) یعنی ہم نے ہر امت کے لیے ایک شریعت اور طریقہ بنایا۔ پس دین ایک ہے (اسلام) مگر شریعتیں مختلف ہو سکتی ہیں۔

✍️ھارون الرشید ھاشمی

Monday, 18 August 2025

What Should Ordinary People Do About Climate Change?


 🌍 What Should Ordinary People Do About Climate Change?

Introduction

The greatest threat the world faces today is climate change. Due to global warming, glaciers are melting, sea levels are rising, and unusual weather events like heavy rains, floods, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent. At one time, people thought this was only the responsibility of governments, scientists, or international organizations to solve. But in reality, if ordinary people take small steps in their daily lives, they can collectively have a huge impact on the environment.

This article explains in detail what citizens can do at home, at work, and in their communities to help combat climate change.


1. Responsible Use of Energy

One of the biggest causes of climate change is the irresponsible use of energy. Electricity is largely generated by burning coal, oil, and gas, which emit carbon dioxide.

  • Always turn off fans, bulbs, and ACs when leaving a room.

  • Replace old lightbulbs with energy-saving LED bulbs.

  • Install solar panels in homes to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

  • Unplug unused appliances (TVs, chargers, freezers) to avoid “phantom energy” use.

These small actions can collectively prevent millions of tons of carbon emissions.


2. Sustainable Transportation

Vehicles are among the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Walk or cycle for short distances instead of using a motorbike or car.

  • Use public transport whenever possible so more people travel in fewer vehicles.

  • If possible, shift to electric or hybrid cars.

  • Keep vehicles well-maintained—properly inflated tires and tuned engines save fuel.

If just one family chooses to walk for 1 km daily instead of driving, they could save dozens of liters of fuel each year.


3. Careful Use of Water

Water scarcity is fast becoming the world’s next big crisis, and climate change is making it worse.

  • Do not waste water during ablution, showering, or household chores.

  • Never leave taps running unnecessarily.

  • Install rainwater harvesting systems at home to store rainwater.

  • Use modern irrigation methods like drip irrigation instead of flooding fields.

Saving water today means saving life for future generations.


4. Planting Trees and Greening the Earth 🌳

Trees are nature’s greatest gift. They provide oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.

  • Every individual should make it a personal duty to plant at least 2–3 trees each year.

  • Schools, colleges, and mosques should run tree-planting campaigns.

  • Encourage gardening and greenery at homes and in neighborhoods.

  • Where trees are cut, new saplings must be planted.

If the residents of one city collectively plant trees, they can noticeably lower their local temperature.


5. Proper Waste Management ♻️

Waste and plastics are among the biggest environmental threats.

  • Always throw trash in bins instead of on streets.

  • Use cloth or paper bags instead of plastic bags.

  • Adopt habits of recycling and reusing.

  • Leftover food should be given to animals or converted into compost, not wasted.

If every citizen reduces their plastic bag use, millions of tons of waste can be prevented from polluting land and oceans.


6. Responsible Eating Habits

Food consumption also affects the environment.

  • Cook only as much as needed to avoid food waste.

  • Reduce meat consumption, as livestock farming contributes heavily to carbon emissions.

  • Prefer local fruits and vegetables to reduce reliance on imported goods.

  • Eat fresh and natural foods, avoiding processed and packaged items.

This is not only better for the environment but also healthier for individuals.


7. Awareness and Education

Protecting the environment is not just the responsibility of a few individuals or organizations—it is a collective duty.

  • Teach children and family members about environmental protection.

  • Share positive messages on social media.

  • Organize awareness sessions and workshops at schools or community levels.

  • Form neighborhood or village committees for environmental care.


8. Cooperation with Government Policies

Government policies only succeed if the public supports them.

  • Participate in government-led environmental projects.

  • Join tree-planting campaigns.

  • Report environmental hazards (illegal tree cutting, sewage dumping, air pollution) to authorities.

  • Raise your voice in favor of eco-friendly policies.


9. Religious and Moral Perspective

Islam also emphasizes cleanliness and environmental care.

  • The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Cleanliness is half of faith.”

  • Planting a tree is considered an ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah).

  • Wasting food and water is prohibited.

Thus, for a Muslim, protecting the environment is not only a social responsibility but also a religious duty.


10. Power of Collective Action

When people act together, the results are far greater.

  • Communities can establish shared gardens or green parks.

  • Neighborhoods can organize “Clean & Green” campaigns.

  • Youth can form eco-friendly clubs to spread awareness.

  • Women can play a key role in saving energy and water at home.


Conclusion

Climate change is a global problem, but the solution begins with small individual actions. If each person saves energy, avoids water waste, plants trees, manages waste properly, and prevents food wastage, the world can become a safer and healthier place.

Remember: small steps by millions of people lead to big change. If we don’t act today, future generations will never forgive us.


Artificial Intelligence (AI)


Artificial Intelligence (AI)


1. Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most revolutionary technologies of the modern world, transforming how humans learn, think, and work. Literally, the word “Artificial” means “man-made,” and “Intelligence” means “the ability to think, learn, and solve problems.” Hence, AI refers to systems and technologies designed to enable machines to learn, decide, and act automatically, mimicking human-like intelligence.

This field is not limited to computer science—it is an interdisciplinary domain combining mathematics, psychology, philosophy, linguistics, engineering, and biology.


2. History of Artificial Intelligence

Ancient Philosophical Foundations

Humans have always dreamt of creating machines capable of thinking. Greek philosopher Aristotle laid down the principles of logic and reasoning, which later became the foundation of modern algorithms.

Islamic Golden Age Contributions

Muslim scientists like Al-Khwarizmi introduced mathematical principles that are today known as "algorithms"—the very foundation of AI.

The Modern Era

  • 1950: Alan Turing introduced the Turing Test to measure whether a machine could exhibit human-like intelligence.

  • 1956: John McCarthy coined the term “Artificial Intelligence.”

  • 1960–1980: The rise of Expert Systems in medicine and industry.

  • 1997: IBM Deep Blue defeated world chess champion Garry Kasparov.

  • 2011: IBM Watson won the quiz show Jeopardy! outperforming human competitors.

  • 2016: AlphaGo defeated a world champion in the highly complex game of Go.

  • 2022–2025: Generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT) created a global revolution.


3. Core Concepts

3.1 Machine Learning

Algorithms that learn from data and improve over time. Example: Netflix recommendations.

3.2 Deep Learning

A subfield of machine learning using neural networks to process complex data like images and language.

3.3 Neural Networks

Inspired by the structure of the human brain, these networks process information in layers.

3.4 Natural Language Processing (NLP)

The ability of machines to understand and generate human language. Example: ChatGPT.

3.5 Computer Vision

Enabling machines to recognize and interpret images/videos. Example: Facial recognition.

3.6 Robotics

Physical machines that can perform automated tasks.


4. Types of AI

  1. Narrow AI (Weak AI) – Designed for specific tasks (e.g., Siri, Google Translate).

  2. General AI (Strong AI) – Machines with the ability to perform any intellectual task like humans (still under research).

  3. Super AI – Hypothetical AI surpassing human intelligence (future concept).


5. AI Technologies

  • Algorithms

  • Data Mining

  • Speech Recognition

  • Image Processing

  • Predictive Analytics

  • Chatbots & Virtual Assistants


6. Applications of AI

6.1 Healthcare

  • Disease diagnosis

  • Robotic surgeries

  • Drug discovery

6.2 Education

  • Smart classrooms

  • Automated testing

  • Virtual tutors

6.3 Business

  • Data analytics

  • Customer support chatbots

  • Targeted digital marketing

6.4 Agriculture

  • Crop monitoring

  • Automated machinery

  • Soil analysis

6.5 Transportation

  • Self-driving cars

  • Smart traffic systems

6.6 Military

  • Drones

  • Cyber warfare

6.7 Domestic Use

  • Smart homes

  • Voice assistants like Alexa and Siri


7. Economic Impact

  • Elimination of some traditional jobs

  • Creation of new fields (AI engineers, data scientists)

  • Increased productivity and efficiency


8. Ethical Concerns

  • Privacy violations

  • Algorithmic bias

  • Unemployment risks

  • Human control vs machine control

  • Deepfakes and misinformation


9. Risks of AI

  • Cybersecurity threats

  • Military misuse

  • Human over-dependence

  • Existential risk of Super AI


10. Future of AI

  • Growth of AGI (Artificial General Intelligence)

  • Integration with Quantum Computing

  • Human–AI collaboration

  • Global AI policies and governance


11. Islam and Artificial Intelligence

  • The Qur’an emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge.

  • Hadith highlights both beneficial and harmful uses of knowledge.

  • Opportunities for Muslims: healthcare, education, economy.

  • Challenges: ethical boundaries, misuse of technology.


 

Climate Change: Global Impacts and Solutions

 


Introduction

The Earth is one of the greatest blessings of Allah Almighty, upon which the entire system of life is based. Mountains, seas, rivers, forests, air, rainfall, and soil all combine to sustain life. However, due to industrial development, excessive consumption, and human negligence toward nature, this balance has been disrupted. The most visible result of this imbalance is what we now call Climate Change.

Climate change is not merely about rising temperatures. It is a comprehensive phenomenon that affects our seasons, rainfall, oceans, glaciers, forests, agriculture, and health. According to experts, if immediate actions are not taken, many regions of the Earth will no longer be habitable for human beings within the next century.


Root Causes of Climate Change

  1. Greenhouse Gases
    Carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide act as a blanket around the Earth, trapping heat and preventing it from escaping.

  2. Deforestation
    Trees are nature’s “air conditioners” that absorb carbon dioxide. Their destruction increases greenhouse gases and eliminates shade and cooling.

  3. Industrial Revolution & Fossil Fuels
    The burning of coal, oil, and gas releases toxic gases into the atmosphere.

  4. Urbanization and Overpopulation
    Increased cars, factories, and air conditioners in cities contribute significantly to global warming.


Major Global Impacts of Climate Change

1. Heavy Rainfalls and Floods

Over the last 30 years, rainfall patterns have shifted drastically.

  • Pakistan (2010 & 2022 floods): Millions displaced, thousands dead.

  • Europe 2021 floods: Germany and Belgium recorded over 200 deaths.

  • China 2025 floods: A province received a year’s worth of rainfall in just one week.

2. Cyclones and Storm Surges

  • Hurricane Katrina (2005, USA): Over 1,800 deaths.

  • Typhoon Haiyan (2013, Philippines): More than 6,000 deaths.

  • Bangladesh: Suffers 2–3 major cyclones every year.

3. Forest Fires

  • Australia (2019–20 Black Summer): Nearly 3 billion animals perished or were displaced.

  • California, USA: Billions of dollars lost annually due to wildfires.

  • Turkey & Greece (2021): Entire villages destroyed.

4. Melting Glaciers & Rising Sea Levels

  • Greenland loses 280 billion tons of ice every year.

  • Pakistan’s northern areas host over 7,000 glaciers, melting rapidly.

  • By 2050, cities like Karachi, Dhaka, and the Maldives may drown.

5. Droughts & Famines

  • Africa 2022: 30 million affected by drought.

  • California & Spain: Severe water shortages.

  • Pakistan (Thar & Balochistan): Thousands displaced due to famine-like conditions.

6. Heat Waves

  • India & Pakistan (2022): Temperatures exceeded 50°C.

  • Europe (2019): Over 20,000 deaths from heat waves.

7. Snowstorms & Harsh Winters

  • Texas Blizzard (2021, USA): Millions left without electricity or water.

  • Russia & Canada experienced record snowfalls.


Historical and Recent Climate Disasters

Pakistan Floods

Pakistan is among the most climate-vulnerable nations.

  • 2010 Floods: 2,000 deaths, 20 million affected.

  • 2022 Floods: 33 million displaced, $33 billion in damages.

  • 2025 Floods: Severely impacted Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Bangladesh

Being a delta country, Bangladesh is highly prone to storms and floods.

  • 1970 Cyclone: Over 500,000 deaths.

  • Every year, millions face displacement.

India

  • 2015 Heat Wave: Over 2,000 deaths.

  • Rivers like Godavari and Krishna are drying.

Europe

  • 2003 Heat Wave: 70,000 deaths across Europe.

  • 2021 Floods: €40 billion in damages to Germany.

Australia

  • 2019–20 Fires: 2,400 homes destroyed, millions displaced.

United States

  • Katrina (2005): New Orleans devastated.

  • Harvey (2017): $125 billion in damages.

Africa

  • Somalia Drought (2011): 200,000+ deaths.

  • Niger and Sudan frequently hit by food shortages.


Social and Economic Impacts

  1. On Agriculture
    Wheat, rice, and maize production is declining due to changing rain patterns.

  2. On Economy
    Trillions of dollars lost annually due to climate-related disasters.

  3. On Health
    Malaria, dengue, cholera, and other diseases are spreading.

  4. On Migration
    The UN estimates 200 million climate refugees by 2050.


Islam and Environmental Responsibility

The Qur’an states:
“Do not spread corruption on the Earth after it has been set in order.” (Surah Al-A‘raf: 56)

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and a bird, person, or animal eats from it, it is regarded as charity (sadaqah) for him.”

Islam regards the protection of nature as an act of worship.


Solutions and Actions

Individual Level

  • Plant trees.

  • Save electricity and water.

  • Reduce plastic usage.

  • Use bicycles or public transport.

Government Level

  • Launch afforestation campaigns.

  • Impose strict industrial laws.

  • Promote renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro).

  • Introduce climate education in schools.

Global Level

  • Ensure compliance with the 2015 Paris Agreement.

  • Developed nations should fund climate projects in poorer countries.

  • Share research and technology worldwide.


The Buner Pir Baba Flood — A Detailed Account

The Buner Pir Baba Flood — A Detailed Account

Introduction

Pir Baba, a valley in Buner District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is famous for its natural beauty, mountain ranges, rivers, and the shrine of the Sufi saint Pir Baba. However, in recent days this region has been struck by a devastating natural disaster — a flash flood. This flood not only claimed many lives but also left entire communities in grief and despair.

The disaster was triggered by a cloudburst, an event where an exceptionally large amount of rain falls over a small area within a very short span of time.


How the Flood Happened

  • According to the Meteorological Department, on Friday, more than 150 millimeters of rain fell within just one hour in Pir Baba and surrounding areas.

  • The rainwater rushed down from the steep mountains, carrying rocks, mud, and landslides with it.

  • The torrent surged through the valleys with extreme force, sweeping away houses, crops, bridges, roads, vehicles, and shops.

  • This sudden and violent flooding is why it is classified as a flash flood — it struck without warning and engulfed the valley within minutes.


Casualties and Affected People

  • In Buner District alone, more than 207 people have died.

  • Across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the death toll has reached between 300 and 337.

  • Reports confirm that over 150 people are still missing, with rescue teams searching for them.

  • Hundreds of injured have been shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital Buner and other facilities in Mardan.

These numbers are likely to rise as many remote villages remain inaccessible to rescue teams.


Damage to Homes and Infrastructure

  • Estimates suggest that 336 houses were either completely destroyed or partially damaged in Buner.

  • Roads and bridges collapsed, causing severe obstacles for rescue operations.

  • Many shops and warehouses in the Pir Baba Bazaar were washed away.

  • Agricultural losses are massive — crops like maize, rice, and vegetables were completely ruined.


The Condition of Displaced Families

Families affected by the flood are now taking shelter under the open sky, or in schools and mosques.

  • Many households lost multiple family members.

  • Women and children are among the worst affected.

  • There is a shortage of clean drinking water and food.

  • Electricity and mobile networks in some areas are still down, adding to people’s suffering.


The Moment of the Flood

  • Eyewitnesses say the disaster struck around Friday evening.

  • People were going about their normal daily lives when suddenly, with a roaring sound, water rushed down from the mountains.

  • The torrent struck with such force that residents had no time to gather belongings or escape.

  • In some places, entire families were swept away before people’s eyes.


Rescue and Relief Operations

  • The Pakistan Army, police, Rescue 1122, and local volunteers rushed to the scene.

  • Since many roads and bridges had been destroyed, teams had to reach certain areas on foot.

  • Helicopters were deployed to deliver food and medicine to cut-off villages.

  • Both the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa announced compensation and relief packages.

  • International organizations such as the Red Cross and the UN have also pledged support.


Estimated Losses

  • Beyond the tragic loss of human lives, the economic damage is enormous.

  • Initial estimates suggest that the financial loss in Buner District alone runs into billions of rupees.

  • The destruction of crops and livestock will likely cause long-term hardship for farmers.


Future Risks and Lessons Learned

This disaster highlights several critical issues:

  1. Climate change is increasing the frequency of heavy rains and flash floods in countries like Pakistan.

  2. Unplanned construction in mountainous areas has worsened the risks.

  3. The government needs to install flash flood early warning systems so that people can be evacuated in time.

  4. Strict measures should be taken to prevent housing along rivers and seasonal streams.



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