Professor Sajid Mir: A Religious and Political Leader

Prof. Sen. Sajid Mir: A Religious and Political Leader

Senator Professor Sajid Mir, a towering figure in Pakistan’s religious and political landscapes, passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship, principled leadership, and unwavering commitment to Islamic values. Born on October 2, 1938, in Sialkot, Mir’s life was a tapestry of academic excellence, religious stewardship, and political advocacy. Over six decades, he shaped Pakistan’s Islamic discourse as the Ameer of Jamiat Ahle Hadith, championed educational reforms, and served as a senator for five consecutive terms, earning recognition for his intellectual rigor and moral fortitude. His demise marked the end of an era for a leader who seamlessly bridged traditional Islamic scholarship with modern political engagement, leaving an indelible impact on Pakistan’s socio-religious fabric.

Early Life and Educational Foundations

Family Background and Early Influences

Sajid Mir was born into a family renowned for its scholarly contributions in Sialkot, a city historically significant for its intellectual and cultural heritage. His father, Abdul Qayum Mir, served as a school inspector in the education department, instilling in young Sajid a reverence for learning and public service. The family’s roots traced back to Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Mir Sialkoti, a prominent Islamic scholar, ensuring that religious and academic pursuits were integral to Mir’s upbringing.

Academic Pursuits and Distinctions

Mir’s educational journey began at Government High School, Sialkot, where he completed his matriculation. He pursued intermediate and undergraduate studies at Murray College, Sialkot, excelling in Arabic, English, and Political Science. His academic prowess earned him the Mir Hasan Medal for topping Arabic and the Muhammad Ali Medal for excellence in English. At Government College, Lahore, he secured a Master’s in English Literature, followed by an MA in Islamic Studies from Punjab University in 1969, graduating with first division honors.

Parallel to his secular education, Mir immersed himself in religious studies. He memorized the Quran at Jamiyah Ibraheemiyah, Sialkot, and completed the Dars-e-Nizami curriculum at Darul Uloom Taqwiyatul Islam, Lahore, earning certifications in Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) and Hadith (traditions of the Prophet Muhammad). This dual foundation in modern and classical knowledge positioned him uniquely to address contemporary challenges through an Islamic lens.

Academic and Professional Trajectory

Early Teaching Career in Pakistan

Mir began his professional journey in 1960 as a lecturer of English at Jinnah Islamiyah College, Sialkot. Over the next decade, he transitioned to technical education, serving as an instructor and senior instructor at Government Polytechnic Institutes in Sialkot and Lahore. His leadership roles expanded as he became Officer In-Charge of Related and Basic Studies at Sialkot Polytechnic (1972–1975) and played a pivotal role in the Punjab Board of Technical Education as an examiner and paper setter.

International Exposure: Educational Reforms in Nigeria

In 1975, Mir’s expertise led him to Nigeria, where he contributed to educational reforms under the federal government. Over nine years, he ascended from Senior Education Officer to Assistant Chief Education Officer, designing curricula that blended technical skills with ethical education. His work in Africa not only honed his administrative acumen but also broadened his perspective on global Islamic solidarity, a theme that later permeated his political career.

Religious Leadership and Jamiat Ahle Hadith

Ascension to Leadership

Mir’s association with Jamiat Ahle Hadith (JAH), a reformist Islamic movement advocating Sahih Hadith-centric practices, began in 1962 as a member of its executive council. Following the assassination of JAH’s leader, Ehsan Elahi Zaheer, in 1987, Mir was elected Nazim-e-Aala (Secretary-General) and later Ameer (President) in 1992, a position he held until his death. Under his stewardship, JAH emerged as a unifying force among Sunni sects, emphasizing Quranic literalism and anti-sectarianism.

Theological Contributions and Anti-Extremism

Mir’s leadership was marked by a firm stance against religious extremism. He advocated for intra-faith dialogue, notably urging political parties to form a consensus against military interference in democracy during the 2017 constitutional crisis. His sermons and writings, such as “Islamiyat ka Tajziyah wa Muatalah” (An Analysis of Christianity), underscored his commitment to interfaith understanding while defending Islamic tenets. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later praised Mir’s efforts to counter sectarianism as a “golden chapter” in Pakistan’s religious history.

Political Career and Legislative Impact

Five Terms in the Senate of Pakistan

Mir’s political career began in 1994 when he was first elected to the Senate on a PML-N ticket. Over 31 years, he was re-elected five times, becoming one of Pakistan’s longest-serving senators. His legislative focus spanned Islamic ethics, education, and foreign policy, with committee roles including:

  • Chairman, Standing Committee on Religious Affairs (1994–1999): Spearheaded reforms in Hajj policies and blasphemy law protections.
  • Chairman, Standing Committee on Science and Technology (2009–2025): Advocated for integrating STEM education with Islamic ethics.

Defiance Against Authoritarianism

Mir’s political courage was epitomized in 2004 when he cast the sole dissenting vote against General Pervez Musharraf’s election as president, a bold rejection of military overreach in governance. This act, coupled with his consistent advocacy for civilian supremacy, cemented his reputation as a principled legislator unwilling to compromise on democratic ideals.

Advocacy for Muslim Unity

In the Senate, Mir criticized Western interventions in Muslim-majority nations and championed stronger ties with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Iran. He represented Pakistan in over 50 international conferences, including the Islamic Fiqh Council of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the World Islamic League in Mecca, where he emphasized pan-Islamic solidarity against Islamophobia.

Literary and Media Contributions

Authorship and Intellectual Legacy

Mir authored several influential works, including:

  • “Isaiyat: Ek Mutala aur Tajziya” (Christianity: A Study and Analysis): A critique of Christian theology from an Islamic perspective.
  • Translations and annotations of Sahih Muslim and Ma za Khasira al-Alam bi Inhitat al-Muslimeen (What the World Lost Due to the Decline of Muslims).

His articles in Tarjuman-al-Hadith and Al-Islam magazines addressed contemporary issues like ethical governance and Islamic economics, blending scriptural references with socio-political analysis.

Founding Paigham TV: A Modern Da’wah Platform

Recognizing media’s power in religious outreach, Mir founded Paigham TV in the early 2000s, a satellite network broadcasting Quranic teachings, lectures, and interfaith dialogues. Under his patronage, the network expanded to four channels (Urdu, Pashto, Quran TV, and a UK-specific channel), reaching millions globally.

Final Years and Enduring Legacy

Health Challenges and Demise

In his later years, Mir faced chronic health issues, including a spinal surgery in April 2025 and a decade-old cardiac stent. Despite these challenges, he remained active in Senate proceedings until his sudden cardiac arrest on May 3, 2025. His funeral in Sialkot drew thousands, including federal ministers, religious leaders, and international delegates, reflecting his cross-sectoral influence.

Tributes and Posthumous Recognition

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded Mir as a “farsighted scholar and statesman,” while PML-N President Nawaz Sharif recalled their five-decade partnership, stating, “His voice for democracy and tolerance will echo through Pakistan’s history”. Internationally, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged Mir’s role in strengthening Pakistan-Saudi religious ties.

Conclusion

Senator Professor Sajid Mir’s life exemplified the harmonious integration of faith, scholarship, and civic duty. From his early days as a polytechnic instructor to his tenure as a senator and Islamic leader, he navigated Pakistan’s complex socio-political terrain with unwavering principles. His legacy endures through Jamiat Ahle Hadith’s educational networks, Paigham TV’s global outreach, and a generation of leaders inspired by his intellectual and moral clarity. As Pakistan grapples with secular-religious divides, Mir’s vision of an enlightened, inclusive Islamic society remains a guiding beacon. Future leaders would do well to emulate his commitment to dialogue, education, and democratic integrity-a trifecta that defined one of Pakistan’s most respected statesmen.

Eid Ul Fitr: A Comprehensive Guid

A Guide about Eid Ul Fitr and How is Eid Celebrated in Different Cultures?

Eid Ul Fitr is one of the most significant festivals in Islam, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is a day of joy, gratitude, and celebration for Muslims worldwide.

Origin and Significance

Eid Ul Fitr, which means “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival was established by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and has been observed by Muslims since the early days of Islam. It signifies the successful completion of Ramadan and the spiritual growth achieved through fasting, prayer, and reflection.

Method of Celebration

The celebration of Eid Ul Fitr varies across cultures, but some universal practices include:

  1. Eid Prayer: Muslims gather in large congregations to perform the special Eid prayer, which includes a sermon and supplications.
  2. Zakat al-Fitr: Before the Eid prayer, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity to purify the fast and help those in need.
  3. Festive Meals: Families prepare and share special meals, often including traditional dishes and sweets.
  4. New Clothes: Wearing new or best clothes is a common tradition, reflecting the joy and significance of the occasion.
  5. Social Visits: Visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts, and spreading happiness are integral parts of the celebration.

Masnoon Acts (Sunnah) on Eid Ul Fitr

Following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslims perform several acts on Eid Ul Fitr to maximize the blessings of the day:

  1. Making Du’a on the Night of Eid: The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized making supplications on the night before Eid.
  2. Performing Ghusl: Taking a bath before the Eid prayer is a recommended practice.
  3. Eating Before Prayer: It is Sunnah to eat an odd number of dates before heading to the Eid prayer.
  4. Applying Perfume: Men are encouraged to apply perfume to create a pleasant atmosphere.
  5. Wearing Best Clothes: Dressing in clean and beautiful clothes is a tradition followed by the Prophet (PBUH).
  6. Paying Zakat al-Fitr: Ensuring that Zakat al-Fitr is given before the prayer.
  7. Reciting Takbeer: Reciting the Takbeer softly on the way to the mosque.
  8. Taking Different Routes: The Prophet (PBUH) used to take different routes to and from the Eid prayer.
  9. Congratulating Each Other: Greeting each other with “Taqabbal Allaahu Minnaa Wa Minka” (May Allah accept from us and from you).

Quranic Verses and Hadith References

Eid Ul Fitr is rooted in Islamic teachings, with several references in the Quran and Hadith:

  • Quranic Verses:

    • “And so that you may complete the number, and magnify Allah for guiding you, and that you may give thanks.” (Quran 2:185).
    • “Felicitous is he who purifies himself, celebrates the Name of his Lord, and prays.” (Quran 87:14-15).
  • Hadith:

    • The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Give gifts to one another, you will love each other.” (Hadith, Al Mufrad).
    • Anas bin Malik reported: “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) came to Madinah, and the people had two days when they used to celebrate. He said, “Allah has replaced them for you with something better: the day of Adha and the day of Fitr.” (Sunan Abi Dawood 1134, Sahih by Al-Albani).
    • Ibn Abbas related: “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) enjoined Zakat al-Fitr as a purifying for the fasting person from vain speech and obscenities, and nourishment for the poor. Whoever gives it before the prayer, it is good zakah, and whoever gives it following the prayer, it is plain charity.” (Sunan Abi Dawood 1609, Hasan by Al-Albani).

Eid Ul Fitr is a day of immense joy and gratitude, reflecting the spiritual achievements of Ramadan and the unity of the Muslim community. By following the Sunnah and engaging in acts of worship and charity, Muslims celebrate this blessed day in a manner that honors their faith and traditions.

I hope this detailed article helps you understand the significance and practices of Eid Ul Fitr. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask at info@DrRizwanAli.com

Celebration of Eid ul Fitar in Different Cultures

Eid Ul Fitr is celebrated with great enthusiasm and unique traditions across different cultures. Here are some examples of how various countries and regions observe this joyous occasion:

Saudi Arabia and the Middle East

In Saudi Arabia, Eid celebrations begin with the Eid prayer, followed by visits to family and friends. Traditional dishes such as lamb kabsa, dates, and Arabic coffee are commonly enjoyed. Acts of charity are emphasized, with many people donating food and financial aid to those in need.

Turkey: Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Feast)

In Turkey, Eid is known as Ramazan Bayramı or Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Feast). Families prepare and share sweets like baklava and Turkish delights. Children receive small gifts or money, and people visit elders to show respect. The celebration also includes visiting the graves of loved ones.

Indonesia: Lebaran and Mudik

In Indonesia, Eid is called Lebaran. A unique tradition called Mudik involves millions of people returning to their hometowns to celebrate with family. Homes and mosques are decorated with lanterns, and large public feasts take place. Traditional dishes such as ketupat (rice cakes) are served alongside spiced meats and curries.

India and Pakistan: Festive Markets and Mehndi

In South Asia, Eid is marked by vibrant street markets filled with traditional clothing, jewelry, and festive treats. Women and girls apply mehndi (henna) on their hands, and families prepare special dishes like biryani and sheer khurma. Social visits and gift exchanges are common.

Malaysia and Singapore

In Malaysia and Singapore, Eid is known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The celebration includes visiting relatives, preparing traditional dishes like rendang and ketupat, and giving “duit raya” (money packets) to children. Public spaces are often decorated with lights and festive displays.

Egypt: Street Festivals and Special Dishes

In Egypt, Eid is celebrated with street festivals, special dishes like feteer meshaltet (layered pastry), and family gatherings. People also visit amusement parks and public gardens to enjoy the holiday.

Morocco: Henna and Community Meals

In Morocco, Eid celebrations include applying henna, wearing festive attire, and enjoying community meals. Traditional dishes like lamb tagine and pastries are prepared, and people visit family and friends to share the joy of the occasion.

United Arab Emirates: Lavish Feasts and Charity

In the UAE, Eid is marked by lavish feasts, city-wide events, and acts of charity. Public spaces are adorned with lights, and families participate in cultural performances and fireworks displays. Many people use this time to give to the less fortunate.

Eid Ul Fitr is a time of unity, gratitude, and generosity, celebrated in unique ways across different cultures. While traditions may vary, the values of faith, family, and giving remain at the heart of the celebration.

Egyptian Preacher Abu Ishaq Al Huwaini

Egyptian Preacher and Renowned Scholar Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini Passes Away

Renowned Scholar Abu Ishaq Al #Huwaini #Passes Away

Renowned Egyptian scholar and hadith expert, Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini, whose birth name was Hijazi Muhammad Sharif, passed away on March 17, 2025, in Qatar. He was 68 years old. The news of Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini’s death has saddened his followers worldwide. He had been suffering from various illnesses for a long time, and his health had deteriorated significantly in recent days.

Life and Background

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini was born on June 10, 1956, in the village of Huwin in the Kafr El-Sheikh province of Egypt. His birth name was Hijazi Muhammad Sharif, named by his father upon returning from Hajj. Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini received his early education in his village and later moved to Cairo, where he graduated in Spanish language from Ain Shams University.

Scholarly and Preaching Services

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini specialized in the science of hadith and studied under Sheikh Muhammad Nasiruddin Al-Albani. He played a significant role in promoting the science of hadith and authored several books, including “Takhrij Tafsir Ibn Kathir,” “Badh Al-Ihsan Bi-Takhrij Sunan Al-Nasa’i,” and “Tahqiq Al-Dibaj Sharh Sahih Muslim.”

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini also appeared on various TV channels, presenting programs such as “Fadfadah” and “Sharh Hadith Al-Ifk.” Throughout his life, he delivered numerous lectures and educated people about the teachings of Islam.

Further Details

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini’s life included several significant events that further highlight his personality and scholarly contributions:

Early Life and Education

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini received his early education in his village and later moved to Cairo, where he graduated in Spanish language from Ain Shams University. During his education, he attended the lectures of Sheikh Abdul Hamid Kishk and developed an interest in the science of hadith.

Scholarly Journey

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini studied the books of Sheikh Muhammad Nasiruddin Al-Albani to master the science of hadith. He played a significant role in promoting the science of hadith and authored several books, including “Takhrij Tafsir Ibn Kathir,” “Badh Al-Ihsan Bi-Takhrij Sunan Al-Nasa’i,” and “Tahqiq Al-Dibaj Sharh Sahih Muslim.”

Preaching Services

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini appeared on various TV channels, presenting programs such as “Fadfadah” and “Sharh Hadith Al-Ifk.” Throughout his life, he delivered numerous lectures and educated people about the teachings of Islam.

Illness and Death

In the last years of his life, Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini faced various illnesses. He was hospitalized several times, and his health continued to deteriorate. Ultimately, he passed away on March 17, 2025, in Qatar.

List of Books

Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini authored several important books in the science of hadith and Islamic studies. Some of his well-known books include:

  • Is’af Al-Labith Bi-Fatawa Al-Hadith – A book on hadith-related fatwas.
  • Al-Bid’ah Wa Atharuha Fi Mihnat Al-Muslimin – Discusses the effects of innovation (bid’ah) on Muslims.
  • Al-Maniha Bi-Silsilat Al-Ahadith Al-Sahihah – A series of authentic hadiths.
  • Al-Nafilah Fi Al-Ahadith Al-Da’ifah Wa Al-Batilah – A collection of weak and fabricated hadiths.
  • Badh Al-Ihsan Bi-Taqrib Sunan Al-Nasa’i – Research and takhrij of Sunan Al-Nasa’i.
  • Tanbih Al-Hajid Ila Ma Waqa Min Al-Nazar Fi Kutub Al-Amjad – Research and review of various books.
  • Sharh Sahih Al-Bukhari – Commentary on Sahih Al-Bukhari.
  • Sahih Al-Qasas Al-Nabawi – Authentic stories of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
  • Qissat Musa Wa Al-Khidr – The story of Prophet Musa and Al-Khidr.
  • Nathl Al-Nibal Bi-Mu’jam Al-Rijal – Research on the narrators of hadith.
  • Nahi Al-Suhbah An Al-Nuzul Bil-Rukbah – Discusses the issues related to prostration.

These books hold significant importance in Islamic studies and highlight Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini’s scholarly contributions.

Conclusion

The death of Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini is a great loss. His scholarly and preaching services will always be remembered, and his followers will continue to benefit from his teachings. May Allah grant him forgiveness and a high place in Jannah.

#AbuIshaqAlHuwaini #AbuIshaq #AlHuwaini #Huwaini #DeathOfScholar #EgyptianPreacher


Nearly Half of All Children Worldwide Live in Poverty: A Crisis Demanding Global Action

In a world of unprecedented technological advancement, 1 billion children-nearly half of the global child population-wake up each day deprived of basic necessities like nutritious food, clean water, education, and healthcare. This staggering figure, equivalent to the combined populations of the U.S., Indonesia, and Brazil, represents a moral failure of our time. While 333 million children survive on less than $2.15/day (extreme monetary poverty), multidimensional poverty-a measure encompassing health, education, and living standards-ensnares 1 in 2 children globally. From the slums of Karachi to remote villages in Malawi, poverty steals childhoods, limits potential, and perpetuates intergenerational suffering. This blog examines the scale, causes, and consequences of this crisis, while charting pathways toward meaningful change.

Understanding Poverty: Beyond Income Metrics

Monetary vs. Multidimensional Poverty

Child poverty manifests in two primary forms:

  1. Monetary Poverty: Defined by the World Bank as living on less than $2.15/day (extreme poverty) or $3.65/day (lower-middle income countries). As of 2023, 333 million children fall into the extreme category.

  2. Multidimensional Poverty: Assessed by UNICEF, this includes deprivations in health, education, nutrition, sanitation, and housing. A staggering 1 billion children lack access to at least two of these essentials.

In conflict zones like Sudan, multidimensional poverty rates exceed 90%, trapping children in cycles of deprivation that income alone cannot resolve.

The Global Landscape: Regional Disparities and Hotspots

Sub-Saharan Africa: Ground Zero for Child Poverty

  • Extreme Poverty: 40% of children survive on <$2.15/day-4x higher than South Asia’s rate.

  • Multidimensional Poverty: 64% lack access to education and healthcare.

  • Case Study: Nigeria accounts for 12% of the world’s extremely poor children, with 45% stunted due to malnutrition.

South Asia’s Paradox: Growth Without Equity

  • While extreme poverty dropped from 22% to 10% (2013–2023), multidimensional poverty persists:

    • India: 34% of children lack education and healthcare access despite economic growth.

    • Pakistan: 38% of under-5s suffer stunting from chronic malnutrition.

Developed Nations: Hidden Crises

  • United States: 11 million children (16%) live below the poverty line, with homelessness surging 33% in 2023–2024.

  • Europe: 22 million children in poverty face “time deprivation,” working 7+ hours/week on household chores.

Root Causes: Why Children Bear the Brunt

Structural Inequities

  • Colonial Legacies: Sub-Saharan Africa’s poverty correlates with extractive colonial economies that stifled infrastructure development.

  • Gender Discrimination: Girls in low-income countries spend 160+ million more hours daily on chores than boys, limiting school access.

Conflict and Climate Shocks

  • War Zones: 75% of Yemen’s children require humanitarian aid amid ongoing conflict9.

  • Climate Change: By 2030, 100 million children face displacement due to droughts and floods.

COVID-19’s Scarring Impact

The pandemic reversed decades of progress:

  • Learning Poverty: 70% of 10-year-olds in low-income countries cannot read a basic text.

  • Economic Losses: 30 million more children fell into extreme poverty than pre-pandemic projections.

Consequences: A Lifetime of Lost Potential

Health Catastrophes

  • Mortality: Children in extreme poverty are 2x more likely to die before age 5 than wealthier peers.

  • Stunting: Chronic malnutrition affects 149 million under-5s, impairing cognitive development.

  • Mental Health: 54% of impoverished children exhibit anxiety/depression symptoms vs. 22% in affluent groups.

Education Gaps

  • Attendance: 58 million primary-aged children remain out of school, mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Quality: Schools in Liberia average 1 textbook per 5 students, perpetuating illiteracy.

Cyclical Poverty

  • Child Labor: 160 million children work globally, often in hazardous conditions.

  • Early Marriage: 12 million girls marry before 18 annually, primarily in poverty-stricken regions.

Pathways to Progress: Evidence-Based Solutions

Policy Interventions

  1. Social Protection:

    • Bolivia’s Renta Dignidad program reduced child labor by 18% through caregiver stipends.

    • Expanding such programs could lift 140 million children from poverty by 2030.

  2. Education Access:

    • Kenya’s free primary education increased enrollment by 2.3 million between 2003–2023.

    • Digital tools like Bangladesh’s Shikho app improved STEM learning by 34% in rural areas.

  3. Healthcare Investment:

    • Rwanda’s community health workers reduced under-5 mortality by 75% since 2000.

    • Scaling nutrition programs could prevent 4.3 million child deaths annually.

Global Solidarity

  • Debt Relief: Suspending debt payments for 50+ low-income countries could fund education for 20 million children.

  • Climate Finance: The $100 billion/year pledge to vulnerable nations remains unmet, exacerbating child poverty.

Grassroots Empowerment

  • Girls’ Education: Each additional school year boosts a woman’s earnings by 20%, breaking poverty cycles.

  • Community Schools: Pakistan’s Taleem Ghar initiative reached 8 million children during COVID via TV lessons.

A Call to Conscience

The statistic that nearly half of all children live in poverty is not just a number-it’s a indictment of our collective priorities. While SDG targets falter, proven solutions exist: Brazil’s Bolsa Família lifted 3 million from poverty, and Ghana’s free high school policy increased enrollment by 50%. Yet without urgent action, 69 million children could die from poverty-related causes by 2030.

As UNICEF Director Catherine Russell asserts, “Ending child poverty is a policy choice”. It demands dismantling systemic inequities, prioritizing children in budgets, and amplifying their voices in decision-making. The cost of inaction-diminished futures, destabilized societies, and moral bankruptcy-is too grave to ignore. Our children deserve nothing less than a world where poverty is a relic, not a reality.