The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as the best example for those who believe in God and the Day of Judgement, and who consistently remember God. The Quran provides guidance for all, but only those who are pious and fulfill specific conditions—faith in God and the afterlife, and constant remembrance of God—will truly benefit. This lecture highlights the Prophet’s life as a complete argument for humanity. The establishment of Islam's social justice system was achieved through persistent effort, hardship, sacrifice, patience, perseverance, and resilience, not through miracles or divine comforts. The example of the Battle of Tabuk demonstrates the dedication of early Muslims, even sharing meager rations to support one another. This is the essence of the Prophet’s legacy.

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Human thought profoundly influences behavior, character, and deeds. Conversely, a person’s actions and character significantly shape their thinking. If knowledge and intellectual growth are not accompanied by corresponding action, a decline in character and thought can occur. A disconnect between intellectual understanding and practical application leads to stagnation and potentially a regression in personal development. Actions and character have a direct impact on one’s intellectual and spiritual progress.

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This lecture explores the perspective of M.N. Roy, a prominent communist revolutionary, on the historical significance of Islam. Roy, a key figure in the Comintern, recognized the revolution initiated by Muhammad as one of the greatest in human history. He detailed this view in his book, *The Historical Role of Islam*, acknowledging its profound impact on global events. Dr. Israr Ahmad analyzes Roy’s analysis and provides insightful commentary on the topic.

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علامہ اقبال نے برعظیم پاک و ہند میں ایک علیحدہ مسلم مملکت کے قیام کی تین بنیادی وجوہات بیان کی ہیں۔ اول، یہ متحدہ ہندوستان میں مسلمانوں اور ہندوؤں کے درمیان جاری کشمکش کا واحد حل تھا۔ دوم، اس مملکت کے ذریعے مسلمانوں کو اسلام کا حقیقی نظام، جو محمد عربی صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے قائم کیا تھا، بحال کرنے کا موقع ملے گا۔ یہ نظام خلافت راشدین پر مبنی ہے، جو ملوکیت کے دور میں فراموش ہو گیا تھا۔ سوم، اقبال نے کہا کہ پاکستان، بھارت کا سب سے بڑا محافظ ثابت ہوگا۔ انہوں نے کہا کہ یہ ملک شمال مغربی سرحد پر بھارت کی حفاظت کرے گا۔

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The word ‘Sawm’ (fasting) fundamentally means to abstain or stop. This encompasses ceasing from eating and drinking, halting speech, or even pausing physical activity. The Quranic verse from Surah Maryam references a vow of abstinence. Historically, ‘Sawm’ in pre-Islamic Arabian society denoted refraining from desires, including sexual activity. It also described a horse standing perfectly still. The term was adopted by the Quran to define the act of fasting as a form of worship, signifying a complete cessation of bodily needs and worldly distractions. It’s a comprehensive cessation, not merely from food and drink, but from all impulsive desires and worldly engagements.

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Dr. Israr Ahmad discusses the principles of Islamic commerce, emphasizing that Islam doesn't fix profit levels but discourages excessive profiteering. He explains that pricing is naturally regulated by market forces of supply and demand. When supply exceeds demand, prices fall. Conversely, when demand exceeds supply, prices rise. Imposing legal restrictions on pricing would lead to black market activity. He advocates allowing these natural market forces to operate freely.

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