Wah Academia Journal of Global Religions
Wah Academia Journal of Global Religions (WAJGR) is a peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal dedicated to the scholarly exploration of religious traditions, interfaith dialogue, spiritual philosophies, and the role of religion in global socio-political contexts. Published quaterly by Wah Academia, WAJGR seeks to foster critical thinking and inclusive scholarship that bridges Eastern and Western religious perspectives. The journal welcomes original research articles, critical essays, and book reviews from scholars in religious studies, theology, anthropology, philosophy, sociology, history, and political science. It provides a platform for both established and emerging voices in the field, with a special focus on comparative religion, contemporary religious movements, and the intersection of religion with globalization, ethics, gender, and ecology. WAJGR encourages submissions that reflect interdisciplinary approaches and diverse methodological frameworks, aiming to promote mutual understanding among faith communities and contribute to global peace and tolerance through academic discourse.
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Buddhism: India’s Diplomacy and International Relations with Southeast Asian Nations
In the past, Buddhism has served as a crucial civilizational bridge, influencing India’s diplomacy and international relations with Southeast Asian countries. From the time of Emperor Ashoka’s missions in the third century BCE until the maritime trade networks that connected the eastern coast of India with Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and other countries, Buddhist concepts, monastic institutions, art, and literature helped to establish lasting cultural and political ties. These exchanges promoted the spread of Indian writings, architectural styles, moral precepts, and statecraft models, which were selectively adopted by Southeast Asian communities. Through cultural diplomacy, heritage conservation initiatives, academic exchanges, and pilgrimage routes, India’s “Act East Policy” strategically rejuvenates these shared Buddhist heritages in the modern era, strengthening soft power interaction. India’s position as a spiritual and intellectual interlocutor in the area is strengthened by institutions like the revived Nalanda University and international Buddhist meetings. In this way, Buddhism functions as a dynamic tool of transnational dialogue in Indo-Southeast Asian relations, promoting mutual trust, regional cooperation, and a shared awareness of civilization, not only as a religious tradition. Therefore, the main objectives of this study are: to examine the historical spread and cultural integration of Buddhism from India to Southeast Asia; to assess current diplomatic efforts such as India’s “Act East Policy” and Buddhist diplomacy; and to determine how a shared Buddhist heritage promotes regional cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and people-to-people ties. This study has been adopted qualitative methodology, based on a multidisciplinary framework that has includes historical analysis, content analysis of official pronouncements and government documents, and an examination of scholarly publications on cultural diplomacy. As well as to provide specific examples of cultural dialogue, case studies of India’s Buddhist circuit promotion, international Buddhist conferences, and cooperation with countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Additionally, the study has utilized primary sources such as official documents from the Ministry of External Affairs and speeches by Indian leaders. The study has been explored how India’s use of Buddhism as a cultural bridge strengthens its regional influence, promotes peaceful coexistence, and advances multilateralism based on shared heritage. As well as issues such as geopolitical rivalries and the varying meanings of Buddhist rituals have also been addressed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Alok Kumar Verma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Living with Integrity: Navigating Minority Status in Light of the Qur’an and Hadith
This study examines the ethical and legal responsibilities of Muslims as a majority community toward non-Muslim minorities in Muslim-majority societies, as guided by the teachings of the Qur’an and Hadith. Islam, as a comprehensive moral and social system, provides a well-defined framework for coexistence, justice, and protection of human dignity irrespective of religious affiliation. Drawing upon primary Islamic sources and historical precedents such as the Constitution of Madinah, the Pact of Umar, and Prophetic practices, this research highlights how Islamic principles institutionalized minority rights within a pluralistic society. The Qur’an emphasizes justice (‘adl), human equality, freedom of religion, and the sanctity of life, while the Hadith literature reinforces obligations of protection, fairness, and compassion toward non-Muslims living under Muslim governance. This paper argues that non-Muslim minorities were not viewed as outsiders but as protected members of society (ahl al-dhimma), entitled to religious freedom, legal protection, socio-economic participation, and cultural autonomy. Historical examples from the Prophet Muhammad’s era, the Rashidun Caliphate, and later Islamic empires demonstrate the practical application of these ideals. In a contemporary context marked by religious tensions and minority marginalization, this study reasserts the relevance of Islamic ethical teachings in promoting inclusive governance and peaceful coexistence. It concludes that living with integrity in Muslim-majority societies requires adherence to Qur’anic justice and Prophetic mercy, ensuring that minority rights are not merely tolerated but actively safeguarded.
Copyright (c) 2026 Araj Sekh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fatwa in the Age of Google: Redefining Islamic Legal Interpretation
The digital revolution has fundamentally altered how Muslims seek religious guidance. Where once a layperson approached a qualified mufti through formal channels, today questions are typed into search engines, forwarded in WhatsApp groups, or asked of chatbots. This article examines this shift through several case studies. First, it contrasts the classical fatwa process (chartered by ijtihād, sanad, and scholarly authority) with the ad-hoc digital “fatwa” environment. Then it analyzes concrete examples: conflicting rulings found via internet search, viral WhatsApp “fatwas” lacking verification, popular YouTube preachers posing as authorities, and AI-driven responses (both a Saudi “Manara” robot and unregulated chatbots). Each case is assessed with uṣūl al-fiqh concepts (ijtihād, taqlīd, tarjīḥ, isṭifṭāʾ, sanad, maqāṣid), exposing methodological gaps and legal-ethical risks. Finally, it reviews institutional responses (e.g. official fatwa portals, regulatory actions like India’s blocking of a fatwa website) and offers recommendations. In sum, while digital platforms have democratized access to Islamic knowledge, they have also fragmented authority and diluted scholarly rigor – a real-world tension that needs urgent address.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tousif Reja (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Role of Zakat in Poverty Alleviation: A Socio-Economic Study
Zakat, the obligatory alms tax in Islam, is widely acknowledged as a tool for social justice and poverty reduction. This paper critically examines Zakat’s socio-economic role in alleviating poverty, integrating Islamic economic theory with modern development analysis. We first contextualise global poverty trends (≈700 million in extreme poverty) and the conceptual alignment of Zakat with universal goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The review covers classical sources (Qur’an, Hadith, jurists) and modern studies, revealing that Zakat, when well-managed, can “channel wealth from the wealthy to the needy” and strengthen social solidarity. Using a mixed-methods approach, we analyse case studies (Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sudan) alongside quantitative data. Evidence suggests Zakat distribution reduces poverty incidence, depth, and severity. For example, Indonesia’s BAZNAS reports lifting 1.35 million people out of poverty in 2024, while Pakistan’s ARDL study finds an inverse long-run relationship between Zakat disbursement and poverty. We compare Zakat with secular welfare: both aim to redistribute wealth, but Zakat is faith-based and targeted at specific recipient groups, whereas government welfare is universal but often underfunded. Key challenges are noted as limited compliance, governance gaps, and a lack of standardisation. The paper concludes with policy recommendations: strengthen legal frameworks, improve transparency (e.g. digital reporting), and integrate Zakat within national social protection systems (as Indonesia and UNDP have begun). The analysis underscores Zakat’s potential to complement conventional poverty strategies and its relevance to achieving the SDGs, provided that institutional reforms and innovative practices are implemented.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ansarul, Ubaida Abul Hasanat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Monstrous reflections: Crisis, Escape, and Cultural Anxieties in All of Us Are Dead
This paper examines the 2022 Korean drama All of Us Are Dead, directed by Lee Jae-kyoo and Kim, through the lens of Jeffrey Jerome Cohen's Monster Culture framework. Set in an apocalyptic world devastated by zombie attacks, the drama serves as a fertile ground for exploring cultural fears and anxieties. The analysis focuses on three of Cohen's seven theses: The Monster’s Body is a Cultural Body, which demonstrates how monsters embody collective cultural fears; The Monster Always Escapes, suggesting that monsters are never fully eliminated but reappear in new forms, symbolizing evolving societal anxieties; and The Monster Is the Harbinger of Category Crisis, highlighting how monsters challenge conventional boundaries and norms. Employing Catherine Belsey’s textual analysis method, this study critically investigates how these thematic elements are depicted in the series. The findings reveal that All of Us Are Dead not only reflects contemporary cultural fears surrounding epidemics and societal collapse but also exemplifies the ongoing presence and adaptability of monsters within cultural narratives. Through Cohen's framework, the drama is positioned as a mirror of the collective unconscious, illustrating the enduring relevance of monster symbolism in understanding societal anxieties in modern media.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Shoaib, Sonia Salam, Dr. Shaheena Ayub Bhatti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Basel Mission Presence in Bakundu 1897-1961; The Untold Story on the Destruction of Indigenous Religion
The activities of the Basel mission activities in Cameroon have been portrayed in missionary and colonial historiography as a civilizing and developmental force. However, in Bakundu, the mission’s engagement between 1889-1961 produced profound transformations that undermined the indigenous religious systems. This article critically examines the role of the Basel Mission in dismantling Bakundu traditional religion, arguing that missionary efforts through education, evangelization, cultural suppression, and collaboration with colonial authorities systematically eroded indigenous belief systems. While acknowledging certain contributions such as literacy and social change, the study contends that these came at the cost of cultural dislocation and religious alienation. Drawing on oral traditions, missionary records, and secondary literature, the paper reconstructs an “untold story” of religious transformation and cultural loss in Bakundu.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Timothy MUSIMA OKIA, Dr. ACHU Frida NJEI (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Representations of Popular Islamic Religious Models in the Digital Age: Managing Religious Diversity
Through the extensive use of technology and social media, the digital era has changed how religion is perceived and practiced. Islam as a global religion is enjoying a rise in popularity, with some well-liked Islamic religious models gaining ground online. This essay looks into how these models are portrayed, how they affect how people around the world view Islam, and the difficulties they present. The digital era promotes religious understanding through easy access to information, online learning, interfaith conversation, virtual interactions, and the exchange of religious ideas. These prevalent paradigms cover a variety of interpretations, from traditional to reformist, extreme, Sufi, and intellectual, and they have an impact on people's religious identities. This study highlights measures to foster tolerance and diversity, taking into account both beneficial elements, such enhanced religious knowledge, and negative dangers, like disinformation and fragmentation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Syarifah Huswatun Miswar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Shari’a, State, and Selfhood: Muslim Women’s Legal Consciousness in Postcolonial India
This article explores negotiation of legal subjectivity by Muslim women in postcolonial India in the context of Shari’a, state law and daily living. Instead of working with the binary effects of the female subjects of the Islamic world as victims of a patriarchal personal law, or strong women who represent the section of the Islamic world that has received a secularized reform, the paper previews the concept of legal consciousness to understand women as they interpret, take, and challenge a variety of normative orders. It is based on feminist legal theory and South Asian writings on plural legalities and holds that the interactions of Muslim women with law are not entirely oppositional and compliant, but are conditioned by pragmatic moral judgments, communal pressures, and navigational moves through institutional structures. The paper places Muslim Personal Law in the context of the general system of constitutional secularism in India, with its attraction and conflict of dimensions of religious autonomy and gender valor. By examining the court transcripts, reform discourses, and life practices as is reflected in marriage, divorce, maintenance and inheritance it shows how women mobilise Islamic jurisprudence as well as constitutional entitlement to demand claims to dignity, justice and membership. Special focus is put on the subsequent legacies of the key legal constituencies; such processes as arguments on triple talaq to demonstrate how legal reforms are prismatic through local settings and fail to produce empowerment with uniformity. Centring the voices and practices of women, the article discloses the active co-production of the law and self in postcolonial India. It finally provides that legal consciousness by Muslim women is disruptive in fixed divisions between religion and state, providing a less dichotomous sense of agency, legality and gendered citizenship in South Asia today.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Pravat Ranjan Sethi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
English Usage and Implicit Audience Alignment in Digitally Mediated Sermons: The Case of Odumeje
Our words are largely influenced by the people and things we listen to most. Thus, repeated exposure to specific language models often results in followers’ adoption of similar words and speech patterns. This influence extends to influential religious figures whose word choices shape the speech patterns of their followers. Accordingly, this study investigates the phonological, lexical, and grammatical features of Prophet Odumeje’s English and his virtual followers' responses in selected sermons on TikTok to infer implicit sociolinguistic alignment and tacit acceptance of this English use. In a qualitative-dominant mixed-method design, based on William Labov’s (1966, 1972) variationist framework and Henri Tajfel and John Turner’s (1979) Social Identity Theory (SIT), 8,202 identifiable linguistic occurrences from 32 recent clips with a total duration of 52 minutes and 41 seconds are purposively sampled. Findings reveal that Odumeje’s English exhibits patterned variation owing to social identity, communicative contexts, and stylistic choices. The study also found that most comments on Odumeje's sermons are positive and exceed those in other categories, implying followers' alignment and acceptance. Given the implications of these findings, the researcher recommends that English language learners understand that many influential figures may use substandard English forms that gain social acceptance, but this does not mean that such forms are grammatically standard.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chukwuma Livinus Ndububa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Global Black Consciousness and Multimedia Aesthetics in Langston Hughes’ ‘Ask Your Mama’
Ask Your Mama, a long poem by Langston Hughes, is unique, not only in its style and composition, but also in its content. Analyzing its materiality, stylistic complexity, and content, this paper argues that Hughes’ masterpiece is a multimedia project of Global Black consciousness, that is postcolonial and reformist in nature. The 12 poems-in-one, the text font type, the ink colors and type used, as well as the artistic design of the book stage it as an epic, which this paper terms as ‘an epic of blackness’. Moreover, my paper discusses that the book uses cubist-style figures, black comedy jokes (Yo mama jokes), along with allusions to famous artistic and political figures of the era. With its various features and references to popular figures, it appears as a polyphonic, multimedia project of modernist, reformist, and postcolonial nature that celebrates blackness and its common memory.
Copyright (c) 2025 Safeer Hussain (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Visualizing Sindhi Sufism: Zubaida Birwani’s Sufi novel and the Making of Progressive Modernist Female Sufi Identity
This research explores the intersection of contemporary visual culture and Sindhi Sufism through the lens of Zubaida Birwani’s Sufi novel Aaradhni, written in Sindhi. By focusing on the novel’s female Sufi protagonist, it reveals how Birwani’s work contributes to the formation of a progressive modernist female Sufi identity. The portrayal of female Sufi figures across various visual cultural mediums, such as television and print media, is examined to assess their impact on the evolution of modernist Sufism in Sindh. Additionally, Birwani’s role in promoting her Sufi subjectivity and narrative through appearances on Sindhi TV channels, media coverage of her book launch in Karachi, and contributions to Urdu online visual media is discussed. The study highlights Birwani’s pivotal role in shaping a contemporary visual culture, redefining female Sufi subjectivity within a modernist intellectual framework.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. M. Rafique Wassan, Dr. Abdul Razaque Channa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Legal Pathways to Palestinian Statehood: An Analysis under the United Nations Charter and Article 4
This article explores the legal means of Palestinian statehood with reference to the United Nations Charter, with specific emphasis on Article 4 and the process of admission of new members to the United Nations. The article will analyze the changing status of Palestine, from its Declaration of Independence in 1988 to its status as a non-member observer state in 2012, and the recent applications for membership in 2024. This article will address the declaratory and constitutive theories of statehood, the Montevideo criteria, and the role of collective recognition in the context of the United Nations framework. The article will also analyze the role of the 2024 International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion on Palestinian Sovereignty and the legal hurdles created by the Oslo Accords, the role of the United States veto, and the Israeli occupation. This article will contend that, despite the objective criteria for statehood, the political hurdles in the Security Council hinder the Palestinian quest for United Nations membership, revealing the contradiction between the universalist ambitions of the United Nations Charter and the realpolitik of great power politics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Barrister Dr. Anwar Baig (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Personal and Environmental Factors Promoting Academic Dishonesty among University Students: The Contribution of AI Tools
Academic dishonesty refers to students’ attempts to present others’ academic work as their own. The main purpose of the current study was to explore the personal and environmental factors that promote academic dishonesty among university students and the contribution of AI tools. Quantitative research design was used. The target population comprises all undergraduate and graduate students studying at the University of Sargodha. A stratified random sampling was employed to gather data from 371 students using a closed-ended questionnaire. Data were analyzed through frequencies, percentages, mean score, and standard deviation, independent sample t-test and ANOVA. The major findings of the study revealed that most of the university students disagreed that personal and environmental factors lead them towards academic dishonesty. The findings also revealed that most of the university students agreed that they use AI tools in learning and use AI tools for dishonest academic practices. Research study recommended that universities and departments should arrange training workshops and sessions for students because most of the university students even do not think so that the usage of AI tools in academic settings could be unethical.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maryam Tasneem , Shaista Khalid , Ahmad Bilal Cheema (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Longing as Devotion: Spiritual Desire and Hallajian Fanâ in the Ghani Khan’s poems The World and Heaven, and the Pious Priest and Madman
This paper explores the concept of spiritual longing in the poetry of Ghani Khan through the Hallajian doctrine of fanā (self-annihilation), arguing that desire in his poetic vision functions as a form of devotion rather than emotional yearning. While Ghani Khan’s poetry has been widely discussed in aesthetic, existential, and socio-political terms, its engagement with mystical longing as a transformative spiritual practice remains underexamined. Using qualitative thematic analysis of selected Pashto poems, the study identifies recurring patterns of desire, separation, and ecstatic suffering that align with Mansur al-Hallaj’s understanding of longing as a sign of divine presence. The findings reveal that Ghani Khan sustains longing as an existential condition that destabilizes the ego and guides the self toward fanā, rather than resolving desire through symbolic union. By situating Ghani Khan within the Hallajian mystical tradition, this paper demonstrates how his poetry reconfigures longing as worship, where devotion is enacted through sustained yearning, self-dissolution, and spiritual risk. The study contributes to Pashto literary studies and comparative mysticism by foregrounding longing as a central devotional and philosophical principle in Ghani Khan’s poetic imagination.
Copyright (c) 2026 Salvia Islam, Hamza Bin Anees, Aiman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Voyage on Common Spiritual Roots Across Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam
This article explores the structural and thematic similarities among four major world religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. It focuses on general cosmological beliefs, universal flood myths, theories of salvation and the debated notion of Buddhist influence on the historical figure of Jesus. By examining Theravāda canonical texts, Purāṇic literature, Biblical and Qur'anic writings and existing scholarship in comparative religion, the article argues that the identified similarities, especially flood narratives (such as Matsya, Noah, and Nūḥ), liberation hierarchies and the Vaishnavite interpretation of the Buddha as the ninth avatāra of Viṣṇu, are systematic and structurally significant enough to warrant scholarly study. The article employs a standard of evidence suitable for a comparative religion context, identifies claims lacking documentary support as hypotheses, acknowledges traditions that are debated within their own contexts, and avoids the common pitfall of asserting that all religions are identical. The posited central claim is more modest yet arguably more intriguing. These traditions exhibit recurring deep structures in soteriology and eschatology that require explanation, whether through shared prehistoric origins, independent parallel development or by combining both. The article elucidates on the documented convergence of the religions, a structural analogy and “contested contact” theory; thus, this hierarchy is for categorizing inter-religious parallels based on the quality of available evidence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suween Vinsuka Kannangara, Prof. Vishaka Suriyabandara (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Long-Distance Agreement in Urdu Infinitival Clauses: A Syntactic Analysis
The aim of the current is to investigate long-distance agreement (LDA) in Urdu infinitive clauses specifically emphasizing on DPs case licensing, agreement, and movement, employing Bošković’s model (2003, 2006, 2007). Previous studies articulated that long-distance agreement (LDA) is mediated by case-driven in long-distance movement, short distance movement in diverse range of languages including Hindi Urdu, Kashmiri, and Tsez to the clause edge, thereby enabling agreement across domains. Such outcomes established a close link between case and agreement, with movement providing the structural configuration necessary for agreement. Employing qualitative research design, Urdu demonstrates a different pattern in infinitival clauses as in Urdu, they are structurally reduced (vP/VP rather than CP/TP), which blocks accessibility for agreement under the Phase Impenetrability Condition (PIC). Consequently, matrix verbs, seskha and passand and auxiliaries, hai, license ergative or accusative case but fail to establish φ feature agreement with embedded infinitival or the object DPs. On the other hand, move could theoretically circumvent PIC utilizing successive cyclic movement, the Urdu instances show that such movement is not activated, blocking agreement. These findings deviate from previous Hindi Urdu accounts that reveal the LDA triggered by embedded objects and instead support Bošković’s (2007) distinction: Agree is locality bound and blocked in reduced clauses, while Move offers a potential escape route that remains unused in Urdu nonfinite structures. This study contributes to the broader theoretical debate by representing that Urdu gives strong empirical evidence for phase theory while showing heterogeneity in agreement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Asad Ali, Naila Kanwal Dar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Emergency Powers, Constitutional Order, and Moral Legitimacy: Reflections on Sri Lanka’s 2018 Crisis
The 2018 constitutional crisis in Sri Lanka represents a critical turning point in the country’s post-1978 constitutional history, raising profound questions about the scope of executive emergency powers and the effectiveness of constitutional checks and balances. The study critically examines the legal and political dimensions of emergency – style executive action during the crisis, focusing on the interpretation of presidential powers, parliamentary sovereignty and judicial review. Research problem is to what extent did the exercise of presidential power during Sri Lanka’s 2018 constitutional crisis expose structural weaknesses in constitutional checks and balance particularly regarding emergency style executive authority under the post 1978 constitutional framework? The research main objective of this study is to analyze how the 2018 constitutional crisis tested the constitutional safeguards introduced under the constitution of Sri Lanka, particularly after the 19th amendment to the constitution, and to evaluate whether Sri Lanka’s semi – presidential system provides sufficient institutional mechanisms to restrain emergency – style executive actions. Sub objectives are to examine the constitutional provisions governing presidential powers under the post 1978 framework, to analyze the legal and political developments during Sri Lanka’s 2018 constitutional crisis, to evaluate the role of parliament and the judiciary in checking executive actions during the crisis and to assess the effectiveness of the 19th amendment in limiting executive overreach. The writing of this article uses qualitative method. Under the qualitative method using literature resources for this. Specially analysis technique based on previous researchers’ findings. The findings contribute to ongoing debates on constitutional reform, democratic resilience and the recalibration of executive power in post-conflict societies.
Copyright (c) 2026 S.V. Kannangara, V. S. Suriyabandara (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Between Memory and History: Crossing the River as a Polyphonic Archive of Diasporic Identity
Crossing the River (1993) by Caryl Phillips has been the subject of numerous research studies that celebrate the novel for its portrayal of slavery, the Middle Passage, its vocal/choral nature, vocal plurality, and hyper-textuality, as well as its archival memory. My paper analyzes the novel using Paul Gilroy’s project of the ‘Black Atlantic’ as the main lens of analysis, integrating the ideas on the archive by Derrida and the vocal features of the novel in my discussion, presenting how the vocal nature and plurality of the novel help in developing an archive of what Gilroy calls the ‘Black Atlantic’. Though scholars have read the structure of the novel as paradigmatic of Gilroy’s theoretical model, my study is unique in its métissage of the framework of ‘Black Atlantic’ and Derridean concept of ‘Archive’ with the vocal elements in discussion of Phillip’s novel, e.g., the voice of the guilty father figure, the popping in and out of voices of the slave trader and the father, the multitude of voices of the African diaspora, along with the references to music and the drum beating, all contributing to creation of a polyphonic archive of the diasporic identity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Safeer Hussain (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
From Tradition to Modernity: A Comparative Analysis of Gender Roles Across Cultures
This study investigates the transformation of gender roles and expectations in traditional and contemporary societies through a cross-cultural framework. It delves into how entrenched cultural and religious values in traditional communities have shaped fixed gender roles, often reinforcing patriarchal norms through prescribed labor divisions and family hierarchies. In contrast, modern societies are experiencing a notable shift toward gender role flexibility and equality, influenced by industrialization, expanded access to education, global interconnectedness, and the advocacy of gender justice movements. The paper also examines the friction that emerges in this evolving landscape, particularly generational divides between older individuals who uphold conventional views and younger cohorts who challenge them with more inclusive perspectives. Furthermore, it analyzes the effectiveness and limitations of both global and localized gender equality campaigns, shedding light on their cultural adaptability and impact. Drawing on comparative insights and real-world examples, the research highlights the nuanced interplay between tradition and modernity in shaping gender relations. While acknowledging the strides made toward equality, the paper underscores that progress remains inconsistent and context-dependent, calling for ongoing, culturally attuned efforts to close persistent gender gaps.
Copyright (c) 2026 Prof Steve Ogbodo, Chukwuemeka Steve Abiakam, Akolo Yohanna Jaggu, Unekwuojo Iye Etubi-Ibrahim (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Human Dignity in World Religions: A Comparative Study of Sacred Texts
Human dignity, understood as the intrinsic worth of each person, is a foundational concept in ethical, legal, and religious discourse. This paper examines how major world religions articulate human dignity through their sacred texts and traditions. A comparative interdisciplinary approach is adopted, drawing on primary sources (scriptures and classic teachings) and secondary scholarship. After outlining philosophical and ethical conceptions of dignity and its role in modern human rights, the study analyses key religious traditions: Hinduism (Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita), Buddhism (Tripitaka and Mahāyāna texts), Judaism (Torah and Rabbinic writings), Christianity (Hebrew Bible and New Testament), and Islam (Qur’an and Ḥadīth). Within each, concepts such as the divine image (e.g. tath ātmā brahma in Hinduism, imago Dei in Judeo-Christianity, Buddha-nature in Buddhism), sanctity of life, moral equality, justice, compassion, and social responsibility are highlighted. A comparative section identifies similarities (e.g., the inherent worth of humans, ethical duties of compassion and justice) and differences (e.g., caste-based duties in Hinduism vs. equality in Christianity), as well as universal versus tradition-specific notions. The interplay of religious dignity concepts with contemporary issues, such as human rights, social justice, gender equality, and pluralism, is then explored. Critical discussions address limitations within religious teachings (e.g., hierarchical or patriarchal norms) and debates over applying sacred concepts in secular societies. The conclusion summarises findings, noting that while expressions differ, all traditions affirm a measure of inherent human worth, offering complementary resources for global ethics. The paper contributes an integrated survey of dignity across religions and suggests directions for further interfaith and ethical research.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ansarul (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Triangle of Monotheism: A Quranic Perspective
This article investigates the Qur’anic understanding of monotheism (Tawḥīd) by introducing a conceptual model described as the Triangle of Monotheism, which is formed by Allah, Prophethood, and Humanity. The study maintains that the Qur’an presents monotheism as a comprehensive system that extends beyond belief in the oneness of God to include adherence to prophetic revelation and the ethical accountability of human beings. Through an analysis of relevant Qur’anic passages, the research explains how these three components operate in mutual relationship to shape religious belief, moral values, and social conduct. By framing Tawḥīd as an integrated theological structure, this study offers a renewed approach to understanding Islamic monotheism and contributes to ongoing scholarly discussions in Qur’anic theology.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Nehal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Women's Rights in Islam: Historical Evolution from Pre-Islamic Arabia to Modern Times
Women’s rights in Islam are often debated and frequently misunderstood due to cultural practices and selective interpretations. This paper examines the historical evolution of women’s rights in Islam from pre-Islamic Arabia to modern times. It aims to show how Islamic teachings brought significant reforms in the social, legal, and moral status of women. Before Islam, women faced severe discrimination, denial of inheritance, and lack of personal choice. Islam addressed these injustices by granting women rights to inheritance, consent in marriage, education, religious responsibility, and participation in social life. The study also highlights the important contributions of Muslim women scholars, jurists, and educators during the prophetic and medieval periods. In addition, the paper briefly discusses Muslim feminism and contrasts it with Western feminist thought to clarify key ideological differences. Based on Qur’anic teachings, Hadith, and historical evidence, the paper argues that Islam fundamentally supports dignity, justice, and equity for women. The study concludes that many contemporary challenges faced by Muslim women arise from cultural misuse of religion rather than Islamic principles themselves. Understanding Islam through authentic sources is essential for an accurate view of women’s rights.
Islamic Ethical Perspectives on AI and Digital Transformation in the 21st Century
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in the 21st century has spurred intense ethical debates worldwide, yet the prevailing discourse remains an ethics monoculture dominated by Western secular frameworks. This paper addresses that imbalance by proposing a novel Islamic AI ethics framework and providing a systematic mapping of Islamic principles to AI governance challenges. We demonstrate that Islamic ethics not only reinforces global principles like fairness and accountability but also introduces a critical dimension of spiritual accountability (amānah, the concept of divine trust) often absent from secular models. A qualitative, comparative methodology is applied: we review both mainstream AI ethics and Islamic ethical thought, then analyze four Muslim-majority country case studies (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Pakistan). Findings: Islamic ethical precepts show broad convergence with global AI ethics – for example, Islam’s emphasis on justice aligns with fairness in algorithms, and the Islamic right to privacy complements data protection norms. More strikingly, Islamic ethics frames responsible AI as a moral duty and form of worship, embedding accountability before God as a motivator for ethical AI. The case studies illustrate how these nations integrate ethical AI guidelines with cultural and religious values – from the UAE’s voluntary AI Ethics Principles to Saudi Arabia’s Shariah-referenced data laws, Malaysia’s new AI Office (NAIO) balancing multicultural norms, and Pakistan’s National AI Policy aspiring to “ethical, inclusive” AI. The discussion highlights the potential of Islamic ethics to enrich the pluralistic dialogue on AI governance, ensuring technological innovation proceeds with moral responsibility, cultural inclusivity, and robust oversight (to prevent mere “ethics-washing”). We conclude with recommendations for policymakers – an Islamic AI governance framework – including the drafting of an Islamic AI Ethics Charter and the institutionalization of ethics oversight, suggesting that a cross-cultural approach to AI governance can promote globally beneficial, human-centric innovation while fulfilling the Islamic principle of stewardship (khilāfah).
Copyright (c) 2025 Uzma Waseem, Abdur Rahim (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Faith and Fusion: Exploring the Unique Religious Practices of Bengali Muslims
The religious practices of Bengali Muslims represent a unique blend of Islamic traditions and regional Bengali culture, reflecting a dynamic interplay of faith and cultural identity. This study explores how Bengali Muslims integrate Islamic rituals with local customs, examining the historical, cultural, and social factors that have shaped these practices. It draws on key examples such as the incorporation of Bengali culinary traditions into Eid celebrations, the role of Dargahs in spiritual life, and the coexistence of Islamic and Bengali festivals, including Milad-un-Nabi and Pohela Boishak. Through a comparative analysis of urban and rural practices, the study investigates how modernization and globalization are influencing these traditions. Potential research questions include: How do Bengali Muslims navigate the dual identity of being both Bengali and Muslim? What role do Sufi traditions play in maintaining cultural cohesion? How do rural and urban communities differ in their expression of religious practices? A review of literature, including works on Sufism, Islamic cultural adaptation, and the history of Islam in Bengal, provides a foundation for understanding the evolution of these practices. This research is significant for its ability to highlight the adaptive and inclusive nature of Bengali Muslim identity, particularly in an era of increasing cultural homogenization and religious polarization. It underscores the potential of blended traditions to foster social cohesion and interfaith understanding, both in Bengal and in diaspora communities worldwide. As modernity and migration continue to challenge traditional practices, this study is essential for documenting and preserving the cultural heritage of Bengali Muslims. Furthermore, it provides critical insights into the role of religion in shaping identity and community in multicultural contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tousif Reja (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Aesthetic Elements of Calligraphy: With Reference to Devanagari
Calligraphy—meaning the art of beautiful writing—is not merely the decoration of letters; rather, it is a vibrant and emotional visual expression in which language and art come together in a remarkable harmony. When this art combines with the Devanagari script, it transforms from being just a script into a living symbol of Indian culture, tradition, and aesthetic sensibility. Devanagari—used to write languages such as Hindi, Sanskrit, Marathi, and Nepali—is considered one of the most aesthetically rich scripts in the world due to its clear linearity, rhythmic flow, and distinctive headline (shirorekha). In Devanagari calligraphy, beauty emerges on multiple levels—such as the movement and rhythm of lines, the balance of curves and angles, and the artistic use of negative space. The shirorekha is not merely a line but a creative energy that binds words together and lends a unique elegance to calligraphy. The interplay of thick and thin strokes, harmonious shapes, and appropriate spacing ensures that every word becomes a visual poem. Historically, the original handwritten copy of the Indian Constitution, created by Prem Behari Narain Raizada, stands as a symbol of the excellence of Devanagari calligraphy. In the contemporary era, artists like Achyut Palav and R. K. Joshi have enhanced its artistic value and established Devanagari on the global stage. Today, through digital tools, typeface design, and graphic platforms, Devanagari calligraphy is not only expanding its artistic presence but also showcasing its beauty in new mediums such as branding, animation, and visual communication.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Prakash Das Khandey (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Absurdity of Hope: A Philosophical Exploration of Camus' Concept of Living with the Absurd
Albert Camus, a prominent philosopher in existentialism, offered a groundbreaking perspective on human existence through his concept of the absurd. In his works, particularly The Myth of Sisyphus (1942), Camus defines the absurd as the conflict between humanity's intrinsic desire for meaning and the universe's indifference. This paper explores Camus’ rejection of hope, examining his belief that traditional notions of hope deny life's absurdity. Rather than succumbing to despair, Camus advocates for living authentically by embracing the absurd and creating meaning through personal experiences. This paper also analyzes the relevance of Camus’ ideas in contemporary discussions on meaning and critiques of his rejection of hope. Ultimately, this exploration reveals that Camus’ philosophy offers a liberating perspective on navigating an inherently meaningless world.
Copyright (c) 2025 Osagie Sylvester AIMIEHINOR (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Examination of The Role of Ethnicity, Religion, and Economic Indices in The Fragmentation of The Crisis of Governance in Africa
The study examined the role of ethnicity, religion, and economic factors as key indicators that have contributed to the governance crises in Africa, and explored strategies to mitigate their effects. It evaluated these elements in various African nations, with a special focus on Nigeria, where they are particularly prominent. The study revealed that the government's failure to address issues such as poverty and corruption hinders development, leading to conflicts that often revolve around ethnicity and religion. The research indicated that robust economic and corporate governance are essential for Africa's revitalization. The conclusion of the paper suggests that Africa can improve by moving beyond narrow tribal and ethnic loyalties, emphasizing the importance of credible elections as a way to oust corrupt leaders. The research methodology included a descriptive approach and content analysis, which involved collecting scholarly articles from books, journals, magazines, online sources, and newspapers. The study also reviewed the Conflict Transformation theory, which argues that, despite Africa's rich human and natural resources, poor governance, corruption, and significant external debt are major obstacles.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chukwuemeka Steve Abiakam (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Reimagining Social Justice through Islamic Ethical Leadership in Global Governance
This paper explains the idea of social justice from the viewpoint of Islamic ethical leadership and studies how these values can reshape global governance. The present world system has made some progress in areas like human rights, international law, and development institutions. But serious issues still exist, such as poverty, economic inequality, political instability, environmental problems, and violations of human dignity. A major reason for these challenges is the lack of true ethical leadership, which makes the current system weak and ineffective. By using the guidance of the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and the opinions of classical Islamic scholars, the research shows that the Islamic concept of justice is not only about law or economy. It is a complete framework that balances rights and responsibilities, and it is rooted in the higher objectives of Shariah (Maqasid al-Shariah). The paper also compares these ideas with the theories of Western thinkers like John Rawls and Amartya Sen, to highlight both similarities and differences. In addition, the study looks at the views of Pakistani and international scholars, along with policy papers of institutions like the United Nations and the World Bank. It shows that Islamic ethical leadership can offer a practical alternative, based on principles such as accountability, collective welfare, and moral responsibility. Examples from the Muslim world are used to explain the opportunities and challenges in applying these principles at the global level. Finally, the paper gives suggestions for policymakers, religious scholars, and world leaders to rebuild global justice on stronger and more ethical foundations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdur Rahim (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Problem of Religious Diversity and Its Implication on Religious Knowledge
Religious diversity is one of the most complex phenomena that the religious studies and philosophy face. The issue of religious diversity forms the main area of interest in this paper with references to the epistemology of religious knowledge acquisition and theological controversies. That way, it brings out how different religious beliefs influence staking on religious authority, knowledge, as well as the prospect of dialogue between religions. With problems from religious studies, philosophy, and theology at its core, this study critiques ways of overcoming the tension between the presence of religious plurality, on the one hand, and truth claims, on the other, to inform both inter-religious engagements and religious practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Osagie Sylvester Aimiehinor (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Hak Digital dan Etika Media Sosial Dalam Perspektif Al-Qur’an
Artikel ini membahas bagaimana Al-Qur'an memberikan landasan etis dalam bermedia sosial, terutama dalam menangkal penyebaran informasi palsu atau hoaks. Melalui pendekatan ayat QS. An-Nur:11 dan QS. Al-Hujurat:6, dijelaskan bahwa prinsip tabayyun (verifikasi) merupakan kewajiban moral bagi setiap Muslim sebelum menyebarkan informasi. Hoaks dipandang sebagai perbuatan dosa besar yang membawa dampak buruk, baik di dunia maupun akhirat. Selain itu, nilai-nilai etika Qur'ani seperti berkata baik dan bersikap jujur menjadi dasar dalam membentuk komunikasi yang sehat di dunia digital. Artikel ini menekankan bahwa penguatan literasi digital berbasis nilai Islam sangat penting dalam membangun masyarakat informasi yang bertanggung jawab. This article examines how the Qur’an provides an ethical foundation for responsible engagement with social media, particularly in countering the spread of false information and hoaxes. By analyzing Qur’anic verses QS. An-Nur:11 and QS. Al-Hujurat:6, the study explains that the principle of tabayyun (verification) constitutes a moral obligation for every Muslim before disseminating information. Hoaxes are viewed as major sins that bring harmful consequences in both worldly life and the Hereafter. Furthermore, Qur’anic ethical values such as speaking kindly and acting honestly serve as fundamental principles in fostering healthy communication in the digital sphere. The article emphasizes that strengthening digital literacy based on Islamic values is essential for building a responsible information society.
Copyright (c) 2025 Neyza Asti Pratiwi, Nurul Qomariyah, Dwi Latifatu Ulya (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0