1. Do Not Interfere In Others' Business Unless Asked.
Most of us create our own problems by interfering too often in others' affairs. We do so because somehow we have convinced ourselves that our way is the best way, our logic is the perfect logic and those who do not conform to our thinking must be criticized and steered to the right direction, our direction. This thinking denies the existence of individuality and consequently the existence of God.. God has created each one of us in a unique way. No two human beings can think or act in exactly the same way. All men or women act the way they do because God within them prompts them that way. Mind your own business and you will keep your peace.
2. Forgive And Forget:
This is the most powerful aid to peace of mind. We often develop ill feelings inside our heart for the person who insults us or harms us. We nurture grievances. This in turn results in loss of sleep, development of stomach ulcers, and high blood pressure. This insult or injury was done once, but nourishing of grievance goes on forever by constantly remembering it. Get over this bad habit. Life is too short to waste in such trifles. Forgive, Forget, and march on. Love flourishes in giving and forgiving.
3. Do Not Crave For Recognition:
This world is full of selfish people. They seldom praise anybody without selfish motives. They may praise you today because you are in power, but no sooner than you are powerless, they will forget your achievement and will start finding faults in you. Why do you wish to kill yourself in striving for their recognition? Their recognition is not worth the aggravation. Do your duties ethically and sincerely.
4. Do Not Be Jealous:
We all have experienced how jealousy can disturb our peace of mind. You know that you work harder than your colleagues in the office, but sometimes they get promotions; you do not. You started a business several years ago, but you are not as successful as your neighbor whose business is only one year old. There are several examples like these in everyday life. Should you be jealous? No. Remember everybody's life is shaped by his/her destiny, which has now become his/her reality. If you are destined to be rich, nothing in the world can stop you. If you are not so destined, no one can help you either. Nothing will be gained by blaming others for your misfortune. Jealousy will not get you anywhere; it will only take away your peace of mind.
5. Change Yourself According To The Environment:
If you try to change the environment single-handedly, the chances are you will fail. Instead, change yourself to suit your environment. As you do this, even the environment, which has been unfriendly to you, will mysteriously change and seem congenial and harmonious.
6. Endure What Cannot Be Cured:
This is the best way to turn a disadvantage into an advantage. Every day we face numerous inconveniences, ailments, irritations, and accidents that are beyond our control. If we cannot control them or change them, we must learn to put up with these things. We must learn to endure them cheerfully. Believe in yourself and you will gain in terms of patience, inner strength and will power.
7. Do Not Bite Off More Than You Can Chew:
This maxim needs to be remembered constantly. We often tend to take more responsibilities than we are capable of carrying out. This is done to satisfy our ego. Know your limitations. . Why take on additional loads that may create more worries? You cannot gain peace of mind by expanding your external activities. Reduce your material engagements and spend time in prayer, introspection and meditation. This will reduce those thoughts in your mind that make you restless. Uncluttered mind will produce greater peace of mind.
8. Meditate Regularly:
Meditation calms the mind and gets rid of disturbing thoughts. This is the highest state of peace of mind. Try and experience it yourself. If you meditate earnestly for half an hour everyday, your mind will tend to become peaceful during the remaining twenty-three and half-hours. Your mind will not be easily disturbed as it was before. You would benefit by gradually increasing the period of daily meditation. You may think that this will interfere with your daily work. On the contrary, this will increase your efficiency and you will be able to produce better results in less time.
9. Never Leave The Mind Vacant:
An empty mind is the devil's workshop. All evil actions start in the vacant mind. Keep your mind occupied in something positive, something worthwhile. Actively follow a hobby. Do something that holds your interest. You must decide what you value more: money or peace of mind. Your hobby, like social work or religious work, may not always earn you more money, but you will have a sense of fulfillment and achievement. Even when you are resting physically, occupy yourself in healthy reading or mental chanting of God's name.
10. Do Not Procrastinate And Never Regret:
Do not waste time in protracted wondering " Should I or shouldn't I?" Days, weeks, months, and years may be wasted in that futile mental debating. You can never plan enough because you can never anticipate all future happenings. Value your time and do the things that need to be done. It does not matter if you fail the first time. You can learn from your mistakes and succeed the next time. Sitting back and worrying will lead to nothing. Learn from your mistakes, but do not brood over the past. DO NOT REGRET. Whatever happened was destined to happen only that way. Why cry over spilt milk?
Showing posts with label awareness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label awareness. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Structural indicators on environmental factors having impact in psitive mental health:
SRRUCTURAL INDICATORS:
Direcltly observed phenomena which can be used as quantitative measures of any of the dimensions that are included in the concept of positive mental health.
BACKGROUND:
1, Few qualitative measures of positive mental health.
2, Little published research relevant to structural indicators.
3, Indicators could offer standards for monitoring and evaluating programmes and policies.
SOCIAL CAPITAL:
1, The indicators give an ecological perspective on factors which have an impact on social support and inter-personal safety throughout the life cycle.
2, They support strategies to enhance social competence and individual coping styles and transitional stages in life.
PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH THTOUGH SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION:
1,Proportion of schools with mental health promotion activities in their curriculum.
2,Proportion of schools offering counselling and emotional support to aged 5-16 years.
3,Mental health support in school
EMPLOYMENT AND WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH:
1,Prevalance of programmes to promote and addresses psychological risk factors in the workplace.
2,Satisfaction with the work environment (Could be assessed through quality Insurance stategies)
3,Existence and extension of supported employment programmes for people with long term mental problems.
4,Proportion of people without work.
5,Stability of employment (Levels of temporary employment)
6,Statutory income for long term sickness/ disability as a % of average income.
7,Existence of Mental Health promotionas [part of safety and Health at Work Legislation.
SOCIAL CAPITAL: MENTALLY HEALTH COMMUNITIES:
1,Social support networks.
2,Society's knoweledge of an attitude towards mental health.
3,Respect for diversity and tolerance.
4,Proportion of people living in poverty.
5,National development of Human Rights.
6,Existence of legislation and policies promoting social inclusion.
7, Proportion of people who volunteers in non-profit organizatiions and communities.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT:
1,Promotion of safety in vulnerable population.
2,Proportion of green spaces with public access.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES:
Frequency of participation in sporting activities.
MENTAL HEALTH AND OLDER ADULTS:
1,Access to social clubs or centres for older adults.
2, Proportion of people over 65 engaged in training or education.
3,Adequacy of pensions.
4,Rate of large families including old people.
Direcltly observed phenomena which can be used as quantitative measures of any of the dimensions that are included in the concept of positive mental health.
BACKGROUND:
1, Few qualitative measures of positive mental health.
2, Little published research relevant to structural indicators.
3, Indicators could offer standards for monitoring and evaluating programmes and policies.
SOCIAL CAPITAL:
1, The indicators give an ecological perspective on factors which have an impact on social support and inter-personal safety throughout the life cycle.
2, They support strategies to enhance social competence and individual coping styles and transitional stages in life.
PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH THTOUGH SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION:
1,Proportion of schools with mental health promotion activities in their curriculum.
2,Proportion of schools offering counselling and emotional support to aged 5-16 years.
3,Mental health support in school
EMPLOYMENT AND WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH:
1,Prevalance of programmes to promote and addresses psychological risk factors in the workplace.
2,Satisfaction with the work environment (Could be assessed through quality Insurance stategies)
3,Existence and extension of supported employment programmes for people with long term mental problems.
4,Proportion of people without work.
5,Stability of employment (Levels of temporary employment)
6,Statutory income for long term sickness/ disability as a % of average income.
7,Existence of Mental Health promotionas [part of safety and Health at Work Legislation.
SOCIAL CAPITAL: MENTALLY HEALTH COMMUNITIES:
1,Social support networks.
2,Society's knoweledge of an attitude towards mental health.
3,Respect for diversity and tolerance.
4,Proportion of people living in poverty.
5,National development of Human Rights.
6,Existence of legislation and policies promoting social inclusion.
7, Proportion of people who volunteers in non-profit organizatiions and communities.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT:
1,Promotion of safety in vulnerable population.
2,Proportion of green spaces with public access.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES:
Frequency of participation in sporting activities.
MENTAL HEALTH AND OLDER ADULTS:
1,Access to social clubs or centres for older adults.
2, Proportion of people over 65 engaged in training or education.
3,Adequacy of pensions.
4,Rate of large families including old people.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Health care : Calcium
You are mostly water and then you are mostly calcium!
Calcium is a mineral and all minerals are metals.
Remember when your doctor prescribes you vitamin and mineral supplements, they are prescribing you vitamin and metal supplements.
So besides water you are mostly metal!
No two ways about it, taking the wrong calcium,
like Coral Calcium, can cause major health problems!
The simple act of taking Vitamins with Minerals can promote disease. Metals, when added to the body, must be bound to a metalloenzyme (an enzyme that contains one or more metals). Enzymes are like the horse pulling a cart (the metal) to where it belongs and can be used by the body. When the body is unable to respond with the proper metalloenzyme, disease can occur.
Calcium not only makes up your bones, it's also found in your nerves, muscles and most of the cells in your body. Calcium, along with other vitamins and metals, are in water and almost everything you eat.
There are two common forms of calcium and dozens of chemical compounds of calcium. One good, the other very bad. This is a well kept secret in the medical and water industry. Tens of billions of dollars are being made in hospitals because of heart disease and selling water softeners that use salt to remove the good calcium from water.
There are more than 60 chemical forms of calcium (Ca): Calcium acetate, Calcium benzoate, Calcium bromate, Carbonate (CaCO2), Carbide (CaC2)Chlorate, Chloride (CaCl2), Chromate, Fluoride, Gluconate (C12H22CaO14)Hydroxide (Ca[OH]2), Oxide (CaO), Nitrite, Phosphate (Ca3[PO4]2), Sulfate (CaSO4) and on and on. Your body needs calcium, but the calcium it needs has to be water soluble, digestible, and recognized by the body. From there, the body then has to chemically process it. All calcium is not water soluble, nor is it digestible or recognizable by the body, therefore, the body is unable to process it effectively.
Water, milk, cheese and vegetables are the best source of calcium.
1. Calcium Carbonate (Bad) - causes scale and plaque. Coral Calcium is a carbonate based calcium.
2. Calcium Bicarbonate (Very Good and very water soluble) - found in meats, fruits and vegetables this calcium builds strong bones when it is properly bound to enzymes and converted by the body.
There is a big difference between the many types of calcium. Someone with osteoporosis, for example, and loosing bone mass, should avoid calcium carbonate pills. They could develop for example, bone spurs on the foot. Every had plantar faciitis? If so, you've probably had a referral to see a Podiatrist (foot specialist). Should you take a different calcium like calcium citrate in lieu of calcium carbonate? Probably not; you probably don't kneed more calcium - you probably need the enzymes essential for control of the calcium that are already in your body. Do not ingest the bad Calcium (Carbonate) - it is not soluble in water.
Limestone, clam shells and marble are like the scale in your plumbing, which is known as calcium carbonate. This form of calcium is not soluble in water and is not bio-available. When calcium is taken in the bad form like calcium carbonate, the body tends to put it anywhere it wants to.
If bad calcium builds up in the arteries it can restrict blood flow to the heart, brain, legs, feet and other areas of the body which may cause major health issues.
Bad calcium may cause gallstones, kidney stones, buildup in the joints as arthritis. It could even be responsible for diabetes and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Calcium buildup is easily detected by an EBT (Electron Beam Tomography) scan. An EBT scan is more accurate, less costly and much safer than an angiogram.
EBT is now one of the major screening devices for the detection of coronary artery disease. Ten times faster than more traditional CT scans, EBT has been approved by the FDA and is considered ideal for detection of calcification in coronary arteries.
Your Handwriting Means
*
If letters slant to the left:
Indicates introspection and a lot of emotional control.
*
If letter slant to the right:
Reveals a person who's outgoing, friendly, impulsive, and emotionally open.
*
If letters are straight up and down:
The sign of someone who's ruled by the head, not the heart.
*
Letters that slant in more than one direction:
Indicates versatility and adaptability.
*
An erratic slant:
Usually means a lack of flexibility.
*
Heavy pressure writing (like you can feel the rib made on the back of the paper):
The writer is agitated.
*
Moderate pressure (the writing is dark, but you can't feel the rib on the other side of the paper):
Shows ability to deal with stress.
*
Light pressure:
Indicates someone who seems to take life in stride.
*
Tiny letters:
Indicate the writer is has somewhat low self esteem but is intelligent.
*
Small letters:
The hallmark of quiet, introspective types - they're generally detail-oriented and have good concentration.
*
Large letters:
Sign of a confident, easygoing individual.
*
Huge letters:
Indicate someone who's theatrical, usually loud, and needs to be the center of attention at all times.
*
Wide letters (their width and height are about the same):
The mark of someone who's open and friendly.
*
Narrow letters:
Show someone who's somewhat shy and inhibited but very self-disciplined.
*
Letters that don't touch:
Indicate an impulsive, artistic, sometimes impractical free thinker.
*
Some letters connecting:
Means the writer's personality blends logic and intuition.
*
All letters making contact:
The sign of someone who's highly cautious.
*
A curved first mark:
Shows a person who's traditional and plays by the rules.
*
A straight beginning stroke:
Reveals someone who's rigid and doesn't like being told what to do.
*
A final stroke straight across:
The writer is cautious.
*
An end mark that curves up:
Reveals generosity.
*
Perfect penmanship:
The hallmark of a communicative person.
*
An indecipherable scrawl:
Indicates a person who's secretive, closed-up and likes to keep his thoughts to himself.
Lungs Infection
The words "lung infection" refer to a type of lung illness with a number of possible causes. A lung infection is any infection that occurs in the lung.
The best known illnesses that involving a lung infection are described below:
Bronchitis is an irritation or inflammation of the air passages from the windpipe to the lungs.
Pneumonia is a lung infection that occurs when the air sacs of the lungs become fill with fluid. Pneumonia is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. In rare cases, it can also be caused by parasites or other harmful organisms. Also see walking pneumonia.
Historically, two other types of lung infections have been common, but both of these have now been largely eliminated in the United States.
Whooping cough involves the respiratory mucous membrane. This lung infection results in repeated spasmodic coughing that continues until the patient runs out of breath. Each bout ends with a "whoop" that gives the disease its name. It is caused by species of bacteria.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics. TB has virtually been wiped out in the developed countries, but this lung infection still kills many people every year in the Third World.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome which has become better known as SARS, is a highly contagious lung infection first identified in China in 2002. SARS is an atypical form of pneumonia.
Side effects of certain medications, chemicals, toxins or other harmful substances can be the underlying cause of a lung infection.
The best known illnesses that involving a lung infection are described below:
Bronchitis is an irritation or inflammation of the air passages from the windpipe to the lungs.
Pneumonia is a lung infection that occurs when the air sacs of the lungs become fill with fluid. Pneumonia is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. In rare cases, it can also be caused by parasites or other harmful organisms. Also see walking pneumonia.
Historically, two other types of lung infections have been common, but both of these have now been largely eliminated in the United States.
Whooping cough involves the respiratory mucous membrane. This lung infection results in repeated spasmodic coughing that continues until the patient runs out of breath. Each bout ends with a "whoop" that gives the disease its name. It is caused by species of bacteria.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics. TB has virtually been wiped out in the developed countries, but this lung infection still kills many people every year in the Third World.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome which has become better known as SARS, is a highly contagious lung infection first identified in China in 2002. SARS is an atypical form of pneumonia.
Side effects of certain medications, chemicals, toxins or other harmful substances can be the underlying cause of a lung infection.
Structural indicators on environmental factors having impact in positive mental health:
SRRUCTURAL INDICATORS:
Direcltly observed phenomena which can be used as quantitative measures of any of the dimensions that are included in the concept of positive mental health.
BACKGROUND:
1, Few qualitative measures of positive mental health.
2, Little published research relevant to structural indicators.
3, Indicators could offer standards for monitoring and evaluating programmes and policies.
SOCIAL CAPITAL:
1, The indicators give an ecological perspective on factors which have an impact on social support and inter-personal safety throughout the life cycle.
2, They support strategies to enhance social competence and individual coping styles and transitional stages in life.
PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH THTOUGH SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION:
1,Proportion of schools with mental health promotion activities in their curriculum.
2,Proportion of schools offering counselling and emotional support to aged 5-16 years.
3,Mental health support in school
EMPLOYMENT AND WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH:
1,Prevalance of programmes to promote and addresses psychological risk factors in the workplace.
2,Satisfaction with the work environment (Could be assessed through quality Insurance stategies)
3,Existence and extension of supported employment programmes for people with long term mental problems.
4,Proportion of people without work.
5,Stability of employment (Levels of temporary employment)
6,Statutory income for long term sickness/ disability as a % of average income.
7,Existence of Mental Health promotionas [part of safety and Health at Work Legislation.
SOCIAL CAPITAL: MENTALLY HEALTH COMMUNITIES:
1,Social support networks.
2,Society's knoweledge of an attitude towards mental health.
3,Respect for diversity and tolerance.
4,Proportion of people living in poverty.
5,National development of Human Rights.
6,Existence of legislation and policies promoting social inclusion.
7, Proportion of people who volunteers in non-profit organizatiions and communities.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT:
1,Promotion of safety in vulnerable population.
2,Proportion of green spaces with public access.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES:
Frequency of participation in sporting activities.
MENTAL HEALTH AND OLDER ADULTS:
1,Access to social clubs or centres for older adults.
2, Proportion of people over 65 engaged in training or education.
3,Adequacy of pensions.
4,Rate of large families including old people.
Direcltly observed phenomena which can be used as quantitative measures of any of the dimensions that are included in the concept of positive mental health.
BACKGROUND:
1, Few qualitative measures of positive mental health.
2, Little published research relevant to structural indicators.
3, Indicators could offer standards for monitoring and evaluating programmes and policies.
SOCIAL CAPITAL:
1, The indicators give an ecological perspective on factors which have an impact on social support and inter-personal safety throughout the life cycle.
2, They support strategies to enhance social competence and individual coping styles and transitional stages in life.
PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH THTOUGH SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION:
1,Proportion of schools with mental health promotion activities in their curriculum.
2,Proportion of schools offering counselling and emotional support to aged 5-16 years.
3,Mental health support in school
EMPLOYMENT AND WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH:
1,Prevalance of programmes to promote and addresses psychological risk factors in the workplace.
2,Satisfaction with the work environment (Could be assessed through quality Insurance stategies)
3,Existence and extension of supported employment programmes for people with long term mental problems.
4,Proportion of people without work.
5,Stability of employment (Levels of temporary employment)
6,Statutory income for long term sickness/ disability as a % of average income.
7,Existence of Mental Health promotionas [part of safety and Health at Work Legislation.
SOCIAL CAPITAL: MENTALLY HEALTH COMMUNITIES:
1,Social support networks.
2,Society's knoweledge of an attitude towards mental health.
3,Respect for diversity and tolerance.
4,Proportion of people living in poverty.
5,National development of Human Rights.
6,Existence of legislation and policies promoting social inclusion.
7, Proportion of people who volunteers in non-profit organizatiions and communities.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT:
1,Promotion of safety in vulnerable population.
2,Proportion of green spaces with public access.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES:
Frequency of participation in sporting activities.
MENTAL HEALTH AND OLDER ADULTS:
1,Access to social clubs or centres for older adults.
2, Proportion of people over 65 engaged in training or education.
3,Adequacy of pensions.
4,Rate of large families including old people.
PSYCHOSOCIAL COUNSELLING
Counselling is a planned intervention between the client and counsellor/helper to assist
the client to alter, improve, or resolve his/her present behaviour, difficulty, or
discomforts. It is a process of helping the client to discover the coping mechanisms that
he/she found useful in the past, how they can be used or modified for the present
situation, and how to develop new coping mechanisms.
Psychosocial approach to counseling places focus on the well-being of the individuals in
relation to their environment. Its focuses not only on individuals but sees them as a part
of bigger social units such as families and communities. It focuses on the understanding
of the relationship between individuals and their environment. Thus, client’s problems are
seen in relation to his/her surroundings. This approach widens holistic understanding of
psychological and social processes.
Psychosocial approach to counseling emphasizes the psychosocial well-being and
empowerment (gaining insight into one’s problem and being actively involved in
addressing one’s sufferings and trying to change it) of client.
CONCLUSION:
The emotional support, play therapy, muscle relaxation exercise, communication skills,
drawings in counselling in psychosocial approach was very effective for the people to reduce psychosocial poblems
Why our culture is declining, and why we are following western culture blindly, is it good to follow or not?
Firstly we will look into definition culture:
According to the classic definition of culture given by E.B Taylor "Culture is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by the man as a member of the society”The definition states that culture Is that complex whole i-e a whole made up of complicated or interrelated parts…which includes all the knowledge we have in the form of books and literature, beliefs of a person, art and aesthetics including folk tales, handicrafts, all the moral codes norms, values, traditions, ethics and all the abilities of an indigenous individual acquired by him/her as a member of society…. so its clear that every person living in a given society conscious or unconsciously follows some codes of conduct and has a specific way of behavior which is called as culture…Another definition states that“Culture is the man-made part of environment”
So we have two types of environment.
1- Natural environment
2- Man made environment
Natural is the one which is given to us by god…. it includes all naturally occurring resources like water, minerals, fruits vegetables, sunlight, rainfall natural disasters etc.
Now when we talk about man made environment it refers to all those ways, tactics and procedures adopted by man to utilize these resources… e.g If we take the example of Eskimos….these people have to face hardships, but the way they manage to live is entirely different from those residing in other parts of the world….this is culture, that how they adopt to their environment. The way they cope with the situations…If we take another small example of Fruits…fruits are a natural blessing of god…its part of nature…. every society and its people are blessed with different sorts of fruits… now the way people make use of these fruits is different…. for example there can be difference in ways of eating, there can be difference in the way they cut it. Like if we take example of typical Punjabi culture…its totally different from the west…. Mango the most popular and most liked fruit is eaten very openly in our culture…many mangoes are placed in a large utensil usually a bucket with lots of ice or cold water…and than without caring about clothes, face and hands it is eaten very frankly…opposite to the west where it is cut with 100’s of styles and placed stylishly served in platter…and after so many steps finally eaten…this is all part of culture….I will give another example of dress patterns…. The universal phenomena is that all human beings need some thing to protect their bodies. Its natural… but the way people dress is different in all societies…this is culture and cultural differences. Reasons for decline in cultureDue to shortage of time I will very briefly discuss some reasons which i consider to be responsible for moribund of our culture…1-) Mass media…The main factor, which I personally think, is responsible for culture deterioration is Mass Media…. It includes both electronic and print media…. but I think electronic media is more responsible…now a days all the TV channels are promoting cultures of other nations especially Hindu culture…people are so much habitual of it that they are day by day forgetting their own golden culture and cultural values…people are following the dress patterns of the west, food habits are being adopted, lack of respect among the youth for elders, modernism and many other.2-) Acculturation…Acculturation is an other cause of cultural decline…. we are borrowing traits of other’s culture so hastily that we are gradually forgetting our original culture…the adaptation rate is very high…merging up of two cultures results in loss of one.3-) Globalization…Loss in culture is also the outcome of rapid globalization…. its due to the swift transfer of knowledge, technology, manpower, ideas from one country to another country, due to which our culture is fading out. 4-)Lack of ethnocentrism…I think due shortage of ethnocentric values among the native there is decline in our culture. People are no more ethnocentric…they don’t have much respect for their own culture.5-) lack of child socialization...Its due to parents neglect ion that the youth is going towards western culture…parents have given so much freedom to their children that they don’t even know where their children are going…what type of dress they are wearing…what sort of food they are taking…what are there ideas regarding religion and culture? and they don’t even have time to tell their children about their culture…6-)Lack of transmission of culture from generation to generation…Due to lack of transmission of cultural values by ancestors there is continuous loss in culture and cultural values…. this will also result in further loss when this generation will have nothing to transmit to their own generation except from the artificial culture which they have adopted of the west…but here we cannot give whole blame to the elders because some times it’s the youth who doesn’t want to receive and adopt their own culture willingly… 7-)Notion of Brain drain…I think the notion of brain drain has also some role for decline of our culture and cultural values…. e.g. when the. the cream of the country is taken away by the west…. When these people return back they become a source of inspiration for others…. these young people have some times fully or partially adopted the international cultures…so they become role models for others…resulting in cultural loss…8-)No conditioning of people…Due to lack of social conditioning and proper training of natives…we have to face culture deterioration…people are not aware of the importance of their own cultures…there is no training to create awareness among the masses how to safeguard their own culture…9-)Propaganda by west…Unhealthy propaganda by the west is also a cause for cultural decline…these people project their own culture in such a way that I seems that there culture is the only best culture of the world…we can see that even they had not left a single chance to hit our food habits too…. opening of international chains of KFC, McDonalds, or pizza hut…is an example…what they are doing is that they are now finishing this junk food in the own countries due to increasing rate of obesity among their youth, and they are throwing away the junk to country like ours… 10-)Elites as role models…There is a trend in our society that people follow the elite class blinding without looking at the consequences…. like if the high gentry is preferring going to KFC, McDonalds, or pizza hut…the lower class will also feel proud and elevated to visit such places even if they couldn’t afford to go there… 11-)Third world….Another problem of our country is that we are so called third world country and are so much impressed from these developed nations that we always think what they are doing is 100% correct….and we will surely succeed if we follow..12-)Migration…Migration to other countries is another cause of cultural turn down…in our country people prefer infact feel superior to work in foreign states…when lot of people move abroad, settle establish there automatically the adopt many of their cultural traits…. apart from adoption they also transfer many of these traits to their native cultures…. resulting in decline of their own culture…IS IT GOOD TO FOLLOW:NOW in my opinion its not good to follow the western culture blindly, but yes we can adopt good things, but only to such an extent that we retain our own culture and stop abondoning our own… regards,
Nausheen Ahmed
According to the classic definition of culture given by E.B Taylor "Culture is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by the man as a member of the society”The definition states that culture Is that complex whole i-e a whole made up of complicated or interrelated parts…which includes all the knowledge we have in the form of books and literature, beliefs of a person, art and aesthetics including folk tales, handicrafts, all the moral codes norms, values, traditions, ethics and all the abilities of an indigenous individual acquired by him/her as a member of society…. so its clear that every person living in a given society conscious or unconsciously follows some codes of conduct and has a specific way of behavior which is called as culture…Another definition states that“Culture is the man-made part of environment”
So we have two types of environment.
1- Natural environment
2- Man made environment
Natural is the one which is given to us by god…. it includes all naturally occurring resources like water, minerals, fruits vegetables, sunlight, rainfall natural disasters etc.
Now when we talk about man made environment it refers to all those ways, tactics and procedures adopted by man to utilize these resources… e.g If we take the example of Eskimos….these people have to face hardships, but the way they manage to live is entirely different from those residing in other parts of the world….this is culture, that how they adopt to their environment. The way they cope with the situations…If we take another small example of Fruits…fruits are a natural blessing of god…its part of nature…. every society and its people are blessed with different sorts of fruits… now the way people make use of these fruits is different…. for example there can be difference in ways of eating, there can be difference in the way they cut it. Like if we take example of typical Punjabi culture…its totally different from the west…. Mango the most popular and most liked fruit is eaten very openly in our culture…many mangoes are placed in a large utensil usually a bucket with lots of ice or cold water…and than without caring about clothes, face and hands it is eaten very frankly…opposite to the west where it is cut with 100’s of styles and placed stylishly served in platter…and after so many steps finally eaten…this is all part of culture….I will give another example of dress patterns…. The universal phenomena is that all human beings need some thing to protect their bodies. Its natural… but the way people dress is different in all societies…this is culture and cultural differences. Reasons for decline in cultureDue to shortage of time I will very briefly discuss some reasons which i consider to be responsible for moribund of our culture…1-) Mass media…The main factor, which I personally think, is responsible for culture deterioration is Mass Media…. It includes both electronic and print media…. but I think electronic media is more responsible…now a days all the TV channels are promoting cultures of other nations especially Hindu culture…people are so much habitual of it that they are day by day forgetting their own golden culture and cultural values…people are following the dress patterns of the west, food habits are being adopted, lack of respect among the youth for elders, modernism and many other.2-) Acculturation…Acculturation is an other cause of cultural decline…. we are borrowing traits of other’s culture so hastily that we are gradually forgetting our original culture…the adaptation rate is very high…merging up of two cultures results in loss of one.3-) Globalization…Loss in culture is also the outcome of rapid globalization…. its due to the swift transfer of knowledge, technology, manpower, ideas from one country to another country, due to which our culture is fading out. 4-)Lack of ethnocentrism…I think due shortage of ethnocentric values among the native there is decline in our culture. People are no more ethnocentric…they don’t have much respect for their own culture.5-) lack of child socialization...Its due to parents neglect ion that the youth is going towards western culture…parents have given so much freedom to their children that they don’t even know where their children are going…what type of dress they are wearing…what sort of food they are taking…what are there ideas regarding religion and culture? and they don’t even have time to tell their children about their culture…6-)Lack of transmission of culture from generation to generation…Due to lack of transmission of cultural values by ancestors there is continuous loss in culture and cultural values…. this will also result in further loss when this generation will have nothing to transmit to their own generation except from the artificial culture which they have adopted of the west…but here we cannot give whole blame to the elders because some times it’s the youth who doesn’t want to receive and adopt their own culture willingly… 7-)Notion of Brain drain…I think the notion of brain drain has also some role for decline of our culture and cultural values…. e.g. when the. the cream of the country is taken away by the west…. When these people return back they become a source of inspiration for others…. these young people have some times fully or partially adopted the international cultures…so they become role models for others…resulting in cultural loss…8-)No conditioning of people…Due to lack of social conditioning and proper training of natives…we have to face culture deterioration…people are not aware of the importance of their own cultures…there is no training to create awareness among the masses how to safeguard their own culture…9-)Propaganda by west…Unhealthy propaganda by the west is also a cause for cultural decline…these people project their own culture in such a way that I seems that there culture is the only best culture of the world…we can see that even they had not left a single chance to hit our food habits too…. opening of international chains of KFC, McDonalds, or pizza hut…is an example…what they are doing is that they are now finishing this junk food in the own countries due to increasing rate of obesity among their youth, and they are throwing away the junk to country like ours… 10-)Elites as role models…There is a trend in our society that people follow the elite class blinding without looking at the consequences…. like if the high gentry is preferring going to KFC, McDonalds, or pizza hut…the lower class will also feel proud and elevated to visit such places even if they couldn’t afford to go there… 11-)Third world….Another problem of our country is that we are so called third world country and are so much impressed from these developed nations that we always think what they are doing is 100% correct….and we will surely succeed if we follow..12-)Migration…Migration to other countries is another cause of cultural turn down…in our country people prefer infact feel superior to work in foreign states…when lot of people move abroad, settle establish there automatically the adopt many of their cultural traits…. apart from adoption they also transfer many of these traits to their native cultures…. resulting in decline of their own culture…IS IT GOOD TO FOLLOW:NOW in my opinion its not good to follow the western culture blindly, but yes we can adopt good things, but only to such an extent that we retain our own culture and stop abondoning our own… regards,
Nausheen Ahmed
Anger is the child of fear
If you're squeamish you may not want to read this.
My recent past few blogs have been about health. I really am not a health nut. I just don't want anyone to endure pain or illness one minute longer than necessary. My teacher said, "Pain is the adjuster" meaning the direction you are pursuing in life or the attitude with which you perceive the world and how life or relationships work might need adjustment. I was reading a Lyme disease blog and one woman explained how she had learned from being so ill to not sweat the small stuff. She learned to reorient her thinking to what was important to her and her family so she cut the "garbage" games out of her life mainly because she had no energy to play them. She was forced to cut back to the "basics" in order to get through the day. There was no energy to quibble about the small stuff that in 100 years would make no difference. She had really grown emotionallyfrom her experience to learn she could deal with the world from an honest perspective. Some people don't get it and never re examine their lives.
As people go through financial hardship many will turn to fight each other out of their emotional pain from fear. Anger is for the most part the child of fear. Fear of the unknown is a terrible place to come from. Fear of the uncontrolable can also cause anger. Fear and anger distort interactions. They can turn people into childlike behavior wanting their needs met to the exclusion of others. Life is a balance of wants and needs. Whether you are in a relationship with anyone or not the first thing a person needs to do is what I call self comfort. There is a period of time when a young child is first learning to sleep on their own. They go through a time when they wake up and will cry out for a parent. Now this can be for two minutes or all night depending on the personality of the child and the response of the parent. Let us say they wake up because they have kicked off the coversbecome cold and wake up. There are movies that show when a child wakes up and learns to put on his/her own covers to fix the situation the disruption of the sleep pattern stops. They kick off the covers, get cold, wake up and cover themselves up. They self correct. They learn to depend on themselves. My observation about fear is we have to see the problem for what it is and comfort ourselves. Pull up the covers does not mean hide rather act to correct the problem and in the action of seeking the cause and acting on the solution the fear is dissipated somewhat by a healthy redirection of focus on the problem.
Many people who self medicate have never looked at what their fear is, faced it and self comforted. Many times just putting a name or recognition to it is the first step to overcoming the immobility to address it. The brain is a wonderful and awful (as in awesome) thing. There are experiences so traumatic that it short circuits and imprints on the medulla oblongata and sets up a cascade cycle that when the event is addressed it is as if the memories are real and now and urgent. That is why they are looking at drugs that will cause amnesia for traumatic events so horrific that this cycle replays itself in the brain memory over and over. While what I am about to tell you does not compare to some of your experiences for me it was awful. I had a dog I loved dearly whom I found dead. He had hung himself by his chokechain hung up on the fence trying to get out of the yard. I replayed the scene over and over in my mind for weeks alternately blaming myself for having had a choke on him. Blaming him for wanting to get out. Why had I not heard him to stop the thing from happening? The resolution came for me when I finally let it go. It happened. I couldn't do anything about it. I mourned the loss and never put a choke chain on a dog again. It did not reduce the pain of the loss by letting go but there was nothing I could do to change what happened and to replay with all the what if's did not change a thing. My aunt and uncle went through the same type of scenario in the days before seat belts when my cousin was killed when she fell out of the back door of the car when it was forced open as she and the dog were playing in the back seat. Her skull was shattered as she hit thepavement. They lived in a very rural area with no near by hospital. They immediately took her to the doctor who told them to take her home and put ice on her head. She died a few hours later. Their marriage survived because they were able to let it go and move on. They self comforted and comforted each other knowing there was no other way to deal with the memory other than let it go. Life is not always easy as you all know. With love and forgiveness to ourselves and for others without blame or judgement in any case sometimes we can move on. I send you all love and forgiveness and the great desire that you all learn to self comfort and love yourselves. We are only human as awful and wonderful as that can be. Cover up gang!
My recent past few blogs have been about health. I really am not a health nut. I just don't want anyone to endure pain or illness one minute longer than necessary. My teacher said, "Pain is the adjuster" meaning the direction you are pursuing in life or the attitude with which you perceive the world and how life or relationships work might need adjustment. I was reading a Lyme disease blog and one woman explained how she had learned from being so ill to not sweat the small stuff. She learned to reorient her thinking to what was important to her and her family so she cut the "garbage" games out of her life mainly because she had no energy to play them. She was forced to cut back to the "basics" in order to get through the day. There was no energy to quibble about the small stuff that in 100 years would make no difference. She had really grown emotionallyfrom her experience to learn she could deal with the world from an honest perspective. Some people don't get it and never re examine their lives.
As people go through financial hardship many will turn to fight each other out of their emotional pain from fear. Anger is for the most part the child of fear. Fear of the unknown is a terrible place to come from. Fear of the uncontrolable can also cause anger. Fear and anger distort interactions. They can turn people into childlike behavior wanting their needs met to the exclusion of others. Life is a balance of wants and needs. Whether you are in a relationship with anyone or not the first thing a person needs to do is what I call self comfort. There is a period of time when a young child is first learning to sleep on their own. They go through a time when they wake up and will cry out for a parent. Now this can be for two minutes or all night depending on the personality of the child and the response of the parent. Let us say they wake up because they have kicked off the coversbecome cold and wake up. There are movies that show when a child wakes up and learns to put on his/her own covers to fix the situation the disruption of the sleep pattern stops. They kick off the covers, get cold, wake up and cover themselves up. They self correct. They learn to depend on themselves. My observation about fear is we have to see the problem for what it is and comfort ourselves. Pull up the covers does not mean hide rather act to correct the problem and in the action of seeking the cause and acting on the solution the fear is dissipated somewhat by a healthy redirection of focus on the problem.
Many people who self medicate have never looked at what their fear is, faced it and self comforted. Many times just putting a name or recognition to it is the first step to overcoming the immobility to address it. The brain is a wonderful and awful (as in awesome) thing. There are experiences so traumatic that it short circuits and imprints on the medulla oblongata and sets up a cascade cycle that when the event is addressed it is as if the memories are real and now and urgent. That is why they are looking at drugs that will cause amnesia for traumatic events so horrific that this cycle replays itself in the brain memory over and over. While what I am about to tell you does not compare to some of your experiences for me it was awful. I had a dog I loved dearly whom I found dead. He had hung himself by his chokechain hung up on the fence trying to get out of the yard. I replayed the scene over and over in my mind for weeks alternately blaming myself for having had a choke on him. Blaming him for wanting to get out. Why had I not heard him to stop the thing from happening? The resolution came for me when I finally let it go. It happened. I couldn't do anything about it. I mourned the loss and never put a choke chain on a dog again. It did not reduce the pain of the loss by letting go but there was nothing I could do to change what happened and to replay with all the what if's did not change a thing. My aunt and uncle went through the same type of scenario in the days before seat belts when my cousin was killed when she fell out of the back door of the car when it was forced open as she and the dog were playing in the back seat. Her skull was shattered as she hit thepavement. They lived in a very rural area with no near by hospital. They immediately took her to the doctor who told them to take her home and put ice on her head. She died a few hours later. Their marriage survived because they were able to let it go and move on. They self comforted and comforted each other knowing there was no other way to deal with the memory other than let it go. Life is not always easy as you all know. With love and forgiveness to ourselves and for others without blame or judgement in any case sometimes we can move on. I send you all love and forgiveness and the great desire that you all learn to self comfort and love yourselves. We are only human as awful and wonderful as that can be. Cover up gang!
PEOPLE OF PAKISTAN UNITE! WHY WE NEED A REVOLUTION
When a people begin to develop a conscious they tend to look at the problems around them search resolutions this search leads to the ultimate solution to the world’s problems revolution. Unfortunately for us our nations people are blinded by false promises and insecurities and even though the time is right with all the ingredients present resentment, poverty, injustice and a well aware middle class we have failed to react, overthrowing the old system of governance and form the true basis of democracy rule of the people, by the people and for the people. The time for a people’s revolution is ‘NOW OR NEVER’.
We need to open or eyes and escape the dilemma of waiting for others to take the step, it is time we correct the mistakes of our forefathers and take responsibility to guide our country even if it has been bestowed upon us by the accident of birth away form the road to inevitable annihilation it has taken. We need to change our prospective, attitude towards this land cause it all we have and try strive for change in ideology and implementation from the roots of our society lying amongst the peasants to the ruling hierarchy. We need a complete over haul of the system because in over half a century of our existence our ruling classes have remained the same as they were during the time of the British Raj under feudalistic control along with much of the land and the peasants making up 70% of the population bound to it. None of the pillars of state besides the military are institutions with a distinguishable stature and codes of conduct. Our states structure has bee amended along with a constitution alien to the masses numerous time by successive governments for their private benefits. Our Youth is a group lacking both purpose and organization; we seem not to choose to be Pakistanis but are forced into it by circumstances. Our geo-political position in the world is a curse causing great interest in us which seems to be causing more damage then benefits. Since the unfaithful moment Muhammad Ali Jinnah passed away in the back of an ambulance we have failed to see the rise of any leader capable of uniting the people. Our people starve on the streets, while our leaders feast.
Necessity is the mother of all inventions and even though we lack leaders and the sprit of nationalism amongst us we need to come with something so as to save ourselves, the fittest will survive but our nation seems to sliding the dark abyss from there is no return and only outcome is ruin. The question is how we can change what we see around us when we live in a embodiment of democracy where 25,000 of the population rules over 160 million and plans to do so without giving up easily. In search for torch bearers this nation has turned everywhere but found none capable of rallying us and moving forward in today’s Pakistan. With such complex issues losing faith is not something that is astonishing what we should do is stick to the principles of our nations father Jinnah ‘Unity, Faith and Discipline’ is the only way forward we need to beginning with changes ourselves and making those around aware of the various issues and arose a sense of patriotism and vengeance against these national issues. The changes will be small and pointless but it is every single drop which eventually adds up into becoming an ocean.
We need to open or eyes and escape the dilemma of waiting for others to take the step, it is time we correct the mistakes of our forefathers and take responsibility to guide our country even if it has been bestowed upon us by the accident of birth away form the road to inevitable annihilation it has taken. We need to change our prospective, attitude towards this land cause it all we have and try strive for change in ideology and implementation from the roots of our society lying amongst the peasants to the ruling hierarchy. We need a complete over haul of the system because in over half a century of our existence our ruling classes have remained the same as they were during the time of the British Raj under feudalistic control along with much of the land and the peasants making up 70% of the population bound to it. None of the pillars of state besides the military are institutions with a distinguishable stature and codes of conduct. Our states structure has bee amended along with a constitution alien to the masses numerous time by successive governments for their private benefits. Our Youth is a group lacking both purpose and organization; we seem not to choose to be Pakistanis but are forced into it by circumstances. Our geo-political position in the world is a curse causing great interest in us which seems to be causing more damage then benefits. Since the unfaithful moment Muhammad Ali Jinnah passed away in the back of an ambulance we have failed to see the rise of any leader capable of uniting the people. Our people starve on the streets, while our leaders feast.
Necessity is the mother of all inventions and even though we lack leaders and the sprit of nationalism amongst us we need to come with something so as to save ourselves, the fittest will survive but our nation seems to sliding the dark abyss from there is no return and only outcome is ruin. The question is how we can change what we see around us when we live in a embodiment of democracy where 25,000 of the population rules over 160 million and plans to do so without giving up easily. In search for torch bearers this nation has turned everywhere but found none capable of rallying us and moving forward in today’s Pakistan. With such complex issues losing faith is not something that is astonishing what we should do is stick to the principles of our nations father Jinnah ‘Unity, Faith and Discipline’ is the only way forward we need to beginning with changes ourselves and making those around aware of the various issues and arose a sense of patriotism and vengeance against these national issues. The changes will be small and pointless but it is every single drop which eventually adds up into becoming an ocean.
An Essay on Education..
Outline:
1. Introduction
2. Standard
3. Causes of Downfall
4. Remedies
Introduction:
“Education is the third eye of a man”
Education is only the weapon by which one can fight and conquer the battle of life. The education has been a very essential part of the different civilization of the world in historical perspectives. In olden times, cave men had no ideas regarding communicating themselves with one another; the first step was taken in this regard was the formation of language, and it had become the very inceptive source of communication in the earliest history of mankind. They came to know that they had already been bestowed upon a tongue as a source of communication by the Allah Almighty, and now, it was their emphatic job to be civilized and moral etiquettes were required to be shaped.Then, the early sages made a format of alphabets and thoroughly worked on philology. Thus, gradually grammar was made up, in which, different bifurcations were made; as, man could easily operate the language as a source of communication.Since then, the world has witnessed the outflow of knowledge that has crossed the boundaries of the different regions and made a world like a global village in recent times, all it was done by the untiring efforts of mankind that has been imparting valuable contributions in different walks of life especially ‘EDUCATION’.Here, it is necessary to focus on the system of education in Pakistan; and how long this department has been a victim of negligence by the people from different strata of our society and it will be observed, being an individual, who is responsible for the downfall of education in the country.Before independence, in 1875, a Primary School was established at Ghazipur, (India) by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, later a High School was established at Aligarh by the same mighty man. But through out India, Muslims were denigrated and the basic needs of life were denied to them by the English. Keeping this in view, Sir, Syed Ahmed Khan aimed at to open a college for the Muslims of India so that they may be able to get the best in higher education. In 1876, Mohammadan Anglo College was established at Aligarh as to meet the demand of education of Muslims of India.The college was affiliated to the Culcuta University; degrees were conferred upon the graduates by Culcuta University for about 43 years, and in 1919, the colleges was upgraded upto a university level and renamed as ‘Aligarh University’. The university produced thousand of graduates who spread throughout India and started to champion the cause of un-educated and fought for the freedom for a separate homeland.The Muslims of India, of course, were backward in education than their Hindu counterparts. The Muslim could not follow the way that was directed by the English and the Hindus, as, it was against their religion. The poor type of education made the Muslims unable to get good jobs in English offices; hence, they remained out of politics for they had the scarcity of consciousness. This came to them through the light of education and they went successful in getting the freedom of Pakistan.Standard of Education in Pakistan:In Pakistan, unfortunately the people have been introduced the double standard of education. The one, which prevails through out the country is related to public sector and the other is an out come of private investors.Let us examine that how far the public sector has fulfilled the requirement of the people of Pakistan by providing them in education. The country had got independence 58 years ago, since then, the contribution imparted by this sector is a little bit worth to be mentioned. The result produced by the sector is very poor and the quantity has outdone quality as far as the contribution and creation is concerned. The education system in Pakistan faced enormous problems after independence. A little attention was paid in this respect. The education has remained an orphan child in our society by facing double standard and has created an atmosphere of frustration among the young ones.Government has established schools, colleges and universities throughout the country that have been imparting education in different respects and studies of life. The students from these departments are wandering due to lack of opportunities. Everywhere they are denied services because they bear a label of government academies. Now one can imagine that why the government system of education is being neglected throughout the country and why the establishment has allowed private sector with its tails up to introduce another standard of education.Parents are scared about their children and they even do not allow their children to be admitted in public sector school, they prefer their child to get education in private sector as, it suits them more. This does not mean that public sector schools are not producing the cream of the future, most of our genius and sages who are imparting their valuable services, are out come of public sector schools. The only submitted reason by their parents is lack of management in public sector schools. The well management is offered at private schools.The relation between teacher and student is sacred. Children are taught social and moral etiquettes with more comfort at private schools, the behaviour of teachers is quite frank and the student can come in direct contact to their teachers. On some scale, this is true that contact between learner and learned lacks in public sectors but the thing they are learning must be the same for both sectors, I mean the curricula. The Curriculum Board has been established but it has allowed private sector to run their own syllabus. Now, the degrees are same but the scope of knowledge got by the two is too different to be compared. Here, students face many complications by studying under different curricula. This has created a big rift between the two sectors.Causes of Downfall:There are enormous causes for the downfall of education in Pakistan which are discussed under different sub-headings.Economical Negligence:Since its inception, Pakistan has remained a weak economy of the world for it has got nothing in its just assets that were aggressively snatched by India. The conflict between the two countries over Kashmir issue has hardly allowed the government to consider and allocate funds in budget for other sectors, the education is not an exception in this regard. Still, only 2% of GDP is allocated for the welfare of education, which is quite inappropriate to meet the demands of education. And it is worth to note that this allocation budget is too not spent for educational purposes, the whole money is taken away by using unfair means by the concerned officials. All these funds are not given through a proper channel so that a false audit report is submitted that the utilization of funds has been spent on requisite purposes.Rapid growth in poverty:According to 2002 Economic Survey of United Nations, “Most of the inhabitants of Pakistan are poor and 40% of them live under poverty line, about 70% of its population dwells in villages. About 300,000, young ones are jobless. They have no access to good education”. The reports shows that how much difficulties and troubles have been faced by this poor and suppressed class of the country. Their main occupation is agriculture and its yearly out put cannot meet their daily and basic needs of life. It is worth to note that only 1% landlords hold almost 95% of lands in Pakistan. This unjust division of land further creates economical problems not only for the poor but also the government does not get the lion’s share in this respect. Political Negligence:“If you want to destroy the future of any nation, no need to wage war with them; defunct their education, they will remain no more live on the map of the world.” No politician has paid attention in improving the standard of education so far, as far as the question of history of development of education in Pakistan is concerned. In case of Sindh, in early 1970s, lingual riots took place and a new cancer of copy culture was introduced and boosted up by politicians to prevail among the people. No official steps were taken in curbing this fatal disease. Now, the result is that throughout the country Sindhi students are understood the out come of copy culture and basic rights in every walk of life are denied to them, because however, they may be genius and creators but the fact remained that they lack in management and unable move the economy of the country just because they bear a title of COPY CULTURE. It was a political conspiracy based on totally bias. Being a Sindhi, I do not favour Sindhis that they are not given a proper share in different walks of life, whatever is happening to them is the only out come of wrong and misled policies which have been blindly followed up by them. Patriotism is the very hinge for all virtues, living in the same country every one at first is Pakistani then Sindhi, Punjabee, Balochee and or Pathan, respectively. So, now it is our turn to turn a new leaf and pace with our other provincial brothers to improve the management of our beloved country Pakistan, believing in “united we stand, divided we fall”. Education has become a question of survival for us; less developed man cannot bring the change in improving the skills that are vital for the uplift of the education.Irrelevant Induction of Staff:It has been a dilemma of our educational system that it has embodied irrelevancy in inducting its staff; broadly speaking, I personally have come across enormous experiences in my minute observation, as it has been generally observed that if a person has some specialization in some particular subject but he seems to be teaching something else. More openly, if some one has got his/her masters in English Literature, he seems to be teaching Mathematics to his/her students. The fact remains that students cannot learn first hand and ground information regarding their subjects. Nepotism is kept on priority while inducting staff, the induction of staff on quota system has made impotent the working format of the education system, ministers choose their relatives for induction without thinking that either they could serve better or will create complications for others.Misconception of Purpose:It is also a dreadful fact that today’s young ones have changed their motives pertaining to acquiring education. Actually, “the education should be for the purpose of getting education” as it has been wisely said; but, we have changed the slogan, “education should be for the purpose of getting jobs”. If, we keep on remaining this theory in mind then we will be digressed from our way and education will be out of our reach. By getting education we come to the ways that how we could be able to lead our lives in the best and a possible way. Unemployment:Unemployment is on full swing throughout the country. Country has been facing huge economical setbacks since its independence. The poor economy of the country cannot meet at once the demand of employment of the countrymen at once. On the one hand the disappointed youth, keeping their degrees in hand, wander the whole day in search of job but ‘No-Vacancy’ sign boards inflate their disappointment on the other. This situation creates negative creation of thoughts in their minds; concluding, they come out as dacoits to waylay and let their names to be enlisted in criminal list; and society faces much more troubles through this kind of misshapenness.Remedies:Every one of us takes things differently, so there is a room for different suggestions. All of us should aim at to abreast and pace ahead to take the task of improving the education system in a systematic way by implementation different programmes. Awareness should be created amongst un-aware fellows, the importance of education must be expounded in real terms but in an easy way, different literacy programmes should be commenced throughout the country in order to provide assistance pertaining the impediments faced by the poor. Government should take an active eye and spend much more money for the improvement of primary, secondary and higher education. More schools, colleges and universities, medical and engineering colleges are needed to be opened. Special attention must be paid on the development of scientific and technical education so that the settled trend of people in getting academic education may be diverted to the technical education. Subject relevancy must be paid in mind while induction of staff for the concerned posts. Politics must eliminated from education department. Student should pay attention much more on their studies than chalking walls in propagation of different leaders, by doing so they are just wasting their time; nothing can be got by nefarious means. Honesty of purpose and quality in work should be our motives. Every one of us (parents, students, teachers and the supreme government) should root out the copy culture from top to bottom from educational system that has been eating away the fresh brains of our youth for the times unknown. The education must be got for the purpose of education not for getting jobs. Text books must be updated with current topics and rapidly changing of the scenario of the world must be given in the textual books. These suggestions are not enough but whatever has come in my mind I have honestly jotted down; there is a room for suggestions as already has been mentioned. In the last but not the least let us work together for bringing revolutionary changes for the effective function of educational system in the country. Let us pray to Allah Almighty may He enable us to bring and get our desired results by putting our entire efforts in this respect.“God helps those who help themselves”
1. Introduction
2. Standard
3. Causes of Downfall
4. Remedies
Introduction:
“Education is the third eye of a man”
Education is only the weapon by which one can fight and conquer the battle of life. The education has been a very essential part of the different civilization of the world in historical perspectives. In olden times, cave men had no ideas regarding communicating themselves with one another; the first step was taken in this regard was the formation of language, and it had become the very inceptive source of communication in the earliest history of mankind. They came to know that they had already been bestowed upon a tongue as a source of communication by the Allah Almighty, and now, it was their emphatic job to be civilized and moral etiquettes were required to be shaped.Then, the early sages made a format of alphabets and thoroughly worked on philology. Thus, gradually grammar was made up, in which, different bifurcations were made; as, man could easily operate the language as a source of communication.Since then, the world has witnessed the outflow of knowledge that has crossed the boundaries of the different regions and made a world like a global village in recent times, all it was done by the untiring efforts of mankind that has been imparting valuable contributions in different walks of life especially ‘EDUCATION’.Here, it is necessary to focus on the system of education in Pakistan; and how long this department has been a victim of negligence by the people from different strata of our society and it will be observed, being an individual, who is responsible for the downfall of education in the country.Before independence, in 1875, a Primary School was established at Ghazipur, (India) by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, later a High School was established at Aligarh by the same mighty man. But through out India, Muslims were denigrated and the basic needs of life were denied to them by the English. Keeping this in view, Sir, Syed Ahmed Khan aimed at to open a college for the Muslims of India so that they may be able to get the best in higher education. In 1876, Mohammadan Anglo College was established at Aligarh as to meet the demand of education of Muslims of India.The college was affiliated to the Culcuta University; degrees were conferred upon the graduates by Culcuta University for about 43 years, and in 1919, the colleges was upgraded upto a university level and renamed as ‘Aligarh University’. The university produced thousand of graduates who spread throughout India and started to champion the cause of un-educated and fought for the freedom for a separate homeland.The Muslims of India, of course, were backward in education than their Hindu counterparts. The Muslim could not follow the way that was directed by the English and the Hindus, as, it was against their religion. The poor type of education made the Muslims unable to get good jobs in English offices; hence, they remained out of politics for they had the scarcity of consciousness. This came to them through the light of education and they went successful in getting the freedom of Pakistan.Standard of Education in Pakistan:In Pakistan, unfortunately the people have been introduced the double standard of education. The one, which prevails through out the country is related to public sector and the other is an out come of private investors.Let us examine that how far the public sector has fulfilled the requirement of the people of Pakistan by providing them in education. The country had got independence 58 years ago, since then, the contribution imparted by this sector is a little bit worth to be mentioned. The result produced by the sector is very poor and the quantity has outdone quality as far as the contribution and creation is concerned. The education system in Pakistan faced enormous problems after independence. A little attention was paid in this respect. The education has remained an orphan child in our society by facing double standard and has created an atmosphere of frustration among the young ones.Government has established schools, colleges and universities throughout the country that have been imparting education in different respects and studies of life. The students from these departments are wandering due to lack of opportunities. Everywhere they are denied services because they bear a label of government academies. Now one can imagine that why the government system of education is being neglected throughout the country and why the establishment has allowed private sector with its tails up to introduce another standard of education.Parents are scared about their children and they even do not allow their children to be admitted in public sector school, they prefer their child to get education in private sector as, it suits them more. This does not mean that public sector schools are not producing the cream of the future, most of our genius and sages who are imparting their valuable services, are out come of public sector schools. The only submitted reason by their parents is lack of management in public sector schools. The well management is offered at private schools.The relation between teacher and student is sacred. Children are taught social and moral etiquettes with more comfort at private schools, the behaviour of teachers is quite frank and the student can come in direct contact to their teachers. On some scale, this is true that contact between learner and learned lacks in public sectors but the thing they are learning must be the same for both sectors, I mean the curricula. The Curriculum Board has been established but it has allowed private sector to run their own syllabus. Now, the degrees are same but the scope of knowledge got by the two is too different to be compared. Here, students face many complications by studying under different curricula. This has created a big rift between the two sectors.Causes of Downfall:There are enormous causes for the downfall of education in Pakistan which are discussed under different sub-headings.Economical Negligence:Since its inception, Pakistan has remained a weak economy of the world for it has got nothing in its just assets that were aggressively snatched by India. The conflict between the two countries over Kashmir issue has hardly allowed the government to consider and allocate funds in budget for other sectors, the education is not an exception in this regard. Still, only 2% of GDP is allocated for the welfare of education, which is quite inappropriate to meet the demands of education. And it is worth to note that this allocation budget is too not spent for educational purposes, the whole money is taken away by using unfair means by the concerned officials. All these funds are not given through a proper channel so that a false audit report is submitted that the utilization of funds has been spent on requisite purposes.Rapid growth in poverty:According to 2002 Economic Survey of United Nations, “Most of the inhabitants of Pakistan are poor and 40% of them live under poverty line, about 70% of its population dwells in villages. About 300,000, young ones are jobless. They have no access to good education”. The reports shows that how much difficulties and troubles have been faced by this poor and suppressed class of the country. Their main occupation is agriculture and its yearly out put cannot meet their daily and basic needs of life. It is worth to note that only 1% landlords hold almost 95% of lands in Pakistan. This unjust division of land further creates economical problems not only for the poor but also the government does not get the lion’s share in this respect. Political Negligence:“If you want to destroy the future of any nation, no need to wage war with them; defunct their education, they will remain no more live on the map of the world.” No politician has paid attention in improving the standard of education so far, as far as the question of history of development of education in Pakistan is concerned. In case of Sindh, in early 1970s, lingual riots took place and a new cancer of copy culture was introduced and boosted up by politicians to prevail among the people. No official steps were taken in curbing this fatal disease. Now, the result is that throughout the country Sindhi students are understood the out come of copy culture and basic rights in every walk of life are denied to them, because however, they may be genius and creators but the fact remained that they lack in management and unable move the economy of the country just because they bear a title of COPY CULTURE. It was a political conspiracy based on totally bias. Being a Sindhi, I do not favour Sindhis that they are not given a proper share in different walks of life, whatever is happening to them is the only out come of wrong and misled policies which have been blindly followed up by them. Patriotism is the very hinge for all virtues, living in the same country every one at first is Pakistani then Sindhi, Punjabee, Balochee and or Pathan, respectively. So, now it is our turn to turn a new leaf and pace with our other provincial brothers to improve the management of our beloved country Pakistan, believing in “united we stand, divided we fall”. Education has become a question of survival for us; less developed man cannot bring the change in improving the skills that are vital for the uplift of the education.Irrelevant Induction of Staff:It has been a dilemma of our educational system that it has embodied irrelevancy in inducting its staff; broadly speaking, I personally have come across enormous experiences in my minute observation, as it has been generally observed that if a person has some specialization in some particular subject but he seems to be teaching something else. More openly, if some one has got his/her masters in English Literature, he seems to be teaching Mathematics to his/her students. The fact remains that students cannot learn first hand and ground information regarding their subjects. Nepotism is kept on priority while inducting staff, the induction of staff on quota system has made impotent the working format of the education system, ministers choose their relatives for induction without thinking that either they could serve better or will create complications for others.Misconception of Purpose:It is also a dreadful fact that today’s young ones have changed their motives pertaining to acquiring education. Actually, “the education should be for the purpose of getting education” as it has been wisely said; but, we have changed the slogan, “education should be for the purpose of getting jobs”. If, we keep on remaining this theory in mind then we will be digressed from our way and education will be out of our reach. By getting education we come to the ways that how we could be able to lead our lives in the best and a possible way. Unemployment:Unemployment is on full swing throughout the country. Country has been facing huge economical setbacks since its independence. The poor economy of the country cannot meet at once the demand of employment of the countrymen at once. On the one hand the disappointed youth, keeping their degrees in hand, wander the whole day in search of job but ‘No-Vacancy’ sign boards inflate their disappointment on the other. This situation creates negative creation of thoughts in their minds; concluding, they come out as dacoits to waylay and let their names to be enlisted in criminal list; and society faces much more troubles through this kind of misshapenness.Remedies:Every one of us takes things differently, so there is a room for different suggestions. All of us should aim at to abreast and pace ahead to take the task of improving the education system in a systematic way by implementation different programmes. Awareness should be created amongst un-aware fellows, the importance of education must be expounded in real terms but in an easy way, different literacy programmes should be commenced throughout the country in order to provide assistance pertaining the impediments faced by the poor. Government should take an active eye and spend much more money for the improvement of primary, secondary and higher education. More schools, colleges and universities, medical and engineering colleges are needed to be opened. Special attention must be paid on the development of scientific and technical education so that the settled trend of people in getting academic education may be diverted to the technical education. Subject relevancy must be paid in mind while induction of staff for the concerned posts. Politics must eliminated from education department. Student should pay attention much more on their studies than chalking walls in propagation of different leaders, by doing so they are just wasting their time; nothing can be got by nefarious means. Honesty of purpose and quality in work should be our motives. Every one of us (parents, students, teachers and the supreme government) should root out the copy culture from top to bottom from educational system that has been eating away the fresh brains of our youth for the times unknown. The education must be got for the purpose of education not for getting jobs. Text books must be updated with current topics and rapidly changing of the scenario of the world must be given in the textual books. These suggestions are not enough but whatever has come in my mind I have honestly jotted down; there is a room for suggestions as already has been mentioned. In the last but not the least let us work together for bringing revolutionary changes for the effective function of educational system in the country. Let us pray to Allah Almighty may He enable us to bring and get our desired results by putting our entire efforts in this respect.“God helps those who help themselves”
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is currently an incurable condition in which too much glucose (sugar) is present in the blood. Find out more about the different types and how it's treated. A common problem Diabetes occurs because the body can't use glucose properly, either owing to a lack of the hormone insulin, or because the insulin available doesn't work effectively. The full name 'diabetes mellitus' derives from the Greek word 'diabetes' meaning siphon - to pass through - and 'mellitus' - the Latin for honeyed or sweet. This is because not only is excess sugar found in the blood but it may also appear in the urine, hence it being known in the 17th century as the 'pissing evil'. Diabetes has been a recognised condition for more than 3,500 years. According to the charity Diabetes UK, more than 2 million people in the UK have the condition, and up to 750,000 more are believed to have it without realising they do. More than three-quarters of people with diabetes have what is called type 2 diabetes mellitus.This used to be known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or maturity-onset diabetes mellitus. The remainder have type 1 diabetes mellitus, which used to be known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. What's the difference? • In type 1, the body's unable to produce any insulin. This usually starts in childhood or young adulthood. It's treated with diet control and insulin injections. • In type 2, not enough insulin is produced or the insulin that is made by the body doesn't work properly. This tends to affect people as they get older, and usually appears after the age of 40. Normal blood sugar control The body converts glucose from food into energy. Glucose comes ready made in sweet foods such as sweets and cakes, or from starchy foods such as potatoes, pasta or bread once they're digested. The liver is also able to manufacture glucose. Under normal circumstances, the hormone insulin, which is made by the pancreas, carefully regulates how much glucose is in the blood. Insulin stimulates cells to absorb enough glucose from the blood for the energy, or fuel, that they need. Insulin also stimulates the liver to absorb and store any glucose that's left over. After a meal, the amount of glucose in the blood rises, and this triggers the release of insulin. When blood glucose levels fall, during exercise for example, insulin levels fall too. A second hormone manufactured by the pancreas is called glucagon. It stimulates the liver to release glucose when it's needed, and this raises the level of glucose in the blood. Insulin is manufactured and stored in the pancreas, which is a thin gland about 15cm (6in) long that lies crosswise behind the stomach. It's often described as being two glands in one, since in addition to making insulin it also produces enzymes that are vital for digestion of food. These include lipase, which helps to digest fat, and amylase that helps to digest starchy foods. It also releases 'bicarbonate of soda' to neutralise any stomach acid that may otherwise damage the lining of the gut.
An Essay on Poverty Alleviation
Outlines:
1. Poverty is simply a state of human ill-being and unacceptable human deprivation.
2. Poverty exists everywhere. However its proportion is higher in rural areas than in urban.
3. The causes of poverty are complex, deep-rooted and often less understood.
4. Poverty creates more poverty and destroys the productive capacity of individuals, communities and nations.
5. So far, the Government of Pakistan has tried to control poverty through various steps.
6. The Government of Pakistan still needs systematize its present plans and take more steps to check poverty.
POVERTY is simply a state of human ill-being and unacceptable human deprivation. Its concept extends from low levels of incomes and consumption to lack of education and poor health. Different people view poverty in different perspectives. The worst kind of poverty is when people do not have access to basic food and water to fulfil their basic physical needs, therefore they are undernourished, weak and very susceptible to diseases. Another kind of poverty is where people have adequate food but do not have access to other basic needs, i-e: water for sanitation, public health services, clothes and housing. Poverty is not so simple that limits itself to food, cloth and housing. It includes other social dimensions like powerlessness, insecurity, vulnerability, isolation and social exclusion. The poors suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition, diseases like diarrhoea which result from unsafe drinking water; and low level of schooling. They are not supplied with basic amenities like clean water and a place to live. They have no protection under the law. They are the most vulnerable to crimes. They are deprived of every security that a government provides to its citizens. They have been totally excluded from our societies just as they are not one of us.Poverty exists everywhere. Recent global level estimates suggest that almost half of the 6 billion population of the world live on $2 a day, and about one-fifth live on less than $1 a day. Around 44% of the world’s poor population live in South Asia only. Although the poor population living under $1 a day declined from 1987-99, however the actual number of poor has increased. According to estimates, if the present situation persists, the total number of poor living under $1 a day is going to increase from 1.2 billion to 1.8 billion by 2015. However there is a regional variation in the incidence of poverty. East Asia, North Africa and Middle East have so far been able to cope with poverty and have relatively less number of poor population. But, in other regions, conspicuously, South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa the number of absolute poor have increased since the last one and a half-decade. These two regions consist of the world’s 70% poor population that lives below $1 a day. Within South Africa there is a variation among countries in respect of poverty. Recent researches reveal that poverty in Nepal and Bangladesh is the highest followed by Pakistan and India. Some surveys suggest that Pakistan has a population of about 141.5 million. The population has grown at a rate of 2.5% since ‘90s. The population density of Pakistan is about 183-persons/square km. The gross national income is $59.6 billion, which means per capita gross national income is $421. The life expectancy in Pakistan is 63 years and under child mortality rate is 110/year. Adult literacy rate in Pakistan is 57%. Official stats also suggest that 33% population lives below poverty line. In the poor population of Pakistan, 38% population lives in Urban areas while 62% is found in rural areas.The causes of poverty are complex, deep-rooted and often less understood. The main causes of poverty are lack of education; inequality in distribution of incomes and assets; and pervasive corruption along with several other causes including natural calamities, inflation, unemployment, flawed policies of Govt. and disturbed law & order situation. The more superior cause among these is the inequality of distribution of assets. In Pakistan, the initial pattern of land distribution is very skewed, largely due to the allocation of large tracts of newly irrigated lands to loyal nawabs, sardars, khans and jagirdars by the British in pre-partition India. The inequality in land distribution has since then widened itself. The pattern of income is even worse in the industrial sectors. The benefits of high growths in the ‘60s were not distributed evenly. It is an astounding fact that two-thirds of the country’s industrial assets are controlled by 22 families. A recent SPDC study reveals that out of every increment in the GDP of one rupee, 48 paisas accrues the richest 20 per cent and only 7 paisa to the poorest 20 per cent. This shows how inequally the wealth is distributed in Pakistan. The other biggest cause of poverty is lack of education. Education is the only key to human and social development. Education is the only quality which incites in the people the quality of decision-making and planning effective strategies. Simply it is the key through which people can know how to tackle their problems i-e: poor health, powerlessness, insecurity and isolation etc. Education is the only way that poors can empower themselves to attain their rights. The third main problem is the corruption in the government system. The government allocates a large amount of funds to alleviate this menace (poverty) but the system is so corrupt that hardly a small portion of the funds reach the poor to assuage their grievances. The poor are deprived of all the rights and privileges due to the corrupt system. The rich are prioritized over the poor in the fields of justice, protection and freedom of choice and action. Thus a sensation of powerlessness is felt among the poors. Besides other reason, natural calamities also count. Most of the time the worst hit due to the natural calamities are the poor as they are the least protected. The destruction further reduces them to more poverty. Inflation too is a real hazards for the poor. With their meagre resources they are hardly able to make both ends meet. Meanwhile, when the ugly monster of inflation rears up its head, and engulfs the poor in its grip. Inflation raises the prices of basically needed commodities while luxurious commodities like Cars, Refridgerator, A.C, Television feel a major fall in their prices. So this alludes that inflation only affects the poor, not the rich. Employment too is elusive for the poor. They can't afford the market rates of jobs and merit doesn't count much in present state of affairs. Govt. Policies too are playing a vital role to nurture this menace. For instance, consider tax policies. The direct taxes which hit the rich are decelerating however the indirect taxes which effectively strike the poor are on the rise. These were the main reasons behind the upsurge in poverty. The list is still unending.Poverty creates more poverty and destroys the productive capacity of individuals, communities and nations. There are a far more severe consequences of this chronic poverty. Poor want to survive and to do that, their poverty leaves them with no choice except stepping into the world of crimes. Poverty is the major source of the crimes. The poor involve themselves in heinous crimes like prostitution, extortion, drug-addiction, kidnapping for ransom and contract-killings etc. These kinds of crime lead into dire deadlocks, which are adverse for the every individual in the country. These crimes create the sensation of insecurity among people, repel foreign investment and create hatred in the hearts of rich for the poor etc. Thus everybody suffers the repercussions of poverty.The government of Pakistan has taken some serious steps in alleviating poverty. For example, it has launched micro-credit-financing schemes. Micro-credit schemes are very effective instruments of providing self-employment opportunities to the poor. Pakistan has two complementary micro-credit programmes through the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) and the Khushali Bank (KB). PPAF has disbursed Rs. 4 billion in the past five years and KB Rs. 3 billion in three years. For intellectual development it has set the cost of education in Government institute free or nominal. To raise the influx, the government is providing several incentives to students on various occasions throughout the year. Scholarships are also awarded to deserving people. This policy in the long-term is going to be an effective strategy to alleviate poverty at the grass-roots level. The government has also commenced several mega projects including dams, industries, ports and small and medium enterprises. These projects are targeting help directly at the poor. These mega projects will create a lots of employment alongwith facilities and services, all for the poor. In reality, these projects will help boost the country's economy and achieving larger growth rates. The Government also has signed various pacts with Malaysia which has promised to recruit 100,000 people from Pakistan for employment there. The employed ones will send remittances to Pakistan ultimately influencing straight on the poor sector. At the end, Pakistani Government is encouraging competition in the Telecommunication Sector which is attracting a lots of Foreign Investors. Thus creating too many employment opportunities as well as cheaper and better services.The Government of Pakistan still needs systematize its present plans and take more steps to check poverty. The micro-credit programmes (PPAF and KB) disburse Rs. 4 and 3 million respectively. Thus the annual rate of disbursement is Rs. 1.8 billion, which ultimately makes Rs. 25000-30000 to a small proportion of the poor population. However, it doesn't remove the poverty permanently. The Government has provided incentives and funds in education sector. But it has failed to maintain a standard quality of education. It needs to work out sincerely to breakaway the barriers of mediocrity. The mega-projects which have been introduced are a good step. But the projects are still less to satisfy the needs of such a large population. The Government needs to keep the good work up and introduce as more mega projects as it can. The employment contract signed between Malaysia and Pakistan is somewhat encouraging. But 100,000 won't make such a big difference. Pakistan needs to attract other countries towards its cheap labour and sign contracts with other countries. Such a large drop-out from the country will pacify the load on the country's economy in terms of petty resources alongwith drag in a huge amount of remittances. Just as the competition in Telecommunication sector has begun, the Government needs to attract more foreign investors in other fields in order to arrange more employment, provide quality services at cheaper rates. These were the recommendations to add 5 stars to the achievements of the Government of Pakistan. Now lets see what is more needed to be done. The Government's present Tax Policies are anti-poor and pro-rich. This thing needs to be reversed to properly distribute assets and wealth between rich and the poor. Presently, the taxes collected in the National Exchequer prove the be a major part of the income of the poor due to flawed direct and indirect tax policies. The direct taxes should be given a limit of around Rs. 25000. The direct taxes should be forgiven to people earning less than the limit amount. While it should be imposed vigorously, transparently and cruelly imposed on people earning more than the limit. This is how the poor and middle class will breakaway through the direct taxes. And for indirect taxes, the base should keep minimizing. The strategy should be like nobody suffers, neither the poor & middle class nor the Government. The luxurious and noble commodities and services specifically utilized by the rich should be taxed fervently. This is the way to fill the wide gap of inequality. If we can't make the poor rich, lets make the rich poor. This will ultimately eradicate the sense of elitism. Thus the universal goal of unity and brotherhood will be achieved. In the agriculture area, the distribution of lands need to be looked out. The jagirdars, sardars and nawabs should be deprived of their land and the recovered land should be alloted to tenants. Side by side modern techniques should be introduced for better production. The Farmers should be given technical education in sync with the modern scenario. Crop cultivation should be done strategically. The more water-consuming crops should be imported and the available amount of water should be used carefully and cautiously. This will solve the major problem of water crises in our country. The industrial area needs some concessions. The industries should be provided with basic necessities at their service with cheap costs. This will help calling down prices. Everyyear, the government collects a huge amount of Zakat (poor-due). This amount is most efficiently used up by white-collar criminals to fill up their bank accounts. Only a small proportion of this amount reaches the poor which doesn't help long. Instead the Government should allocate the zakat (poor-due) fund of every district and invest that fund in the owning districts to establish industries, factories or small enterprises. Doing this will create employment opportunities and the yearly profits from the invested-sector can be used to aid the poor just like the Government does. By the other hand, the Zakat collection by the Government everyyear can be used on development projects thus enhancing the standard of life. Nowadays mediocrity has been on a rise in Pakistan. It is all due to the falling standards of educational institutions throughout the country. The remedy to this situation needs some time, meanwhile what the Government needs to work on is Technical Education. For instance, if you want to build a bungalow, you will get the finest architect in Pakistan but if you've got a leaking tap, you will never find a skilled plumber. The government needs to encourage people to step in the world of technical education. This will help solve the unemployment problems.All these steps can achieve striking results only if followed with total integrity and transparency. These two features in the Government can prove to be a cornerstone in building a STRONG AND PROSPEROUS PAKISTAN. - Ameeen.
1. Poverty is simply a state of human ill-being and unacceptable human deprivation.
2. Poverty exists everywhere. However its proportion is higher in rural areas than in urban.
3. The causes of poverty are complex, deep-rooted and often less understood.
4. Poverty creates more poverty and destroys the productive capacity of individuals, communities and nations.
5. So far, the Government of Pakistan has tried to control poverty through various steps.
6. The Government of Pakistan still needs systematize its present plans and take more steps to check poverty.
POVERTY is simply a state of human ill-being and unacceptable human deprivation. Its concept extends from low levels of incomes and consumption to lack of education and poor health. Different people view poverty in different perspectives. The worst kind of poverty is when people do not have access to basic food and water to fulfil their basic physical needs, therefore they are undernourished, weak and very susceptible to diseases. Another kind of poverty is where people have adequate food but do not have access to other basic needs, i-e: water for sanitation, public health services, clothes and housing. Poverty is not so simple that limits itself to food, cloth and housing. It includes other social dimensions like powerlessness, insecurity, vulnerability, isolation and social exclusion. The poors suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition, diseases like diarrhoea which result from unsafe drinking water; and low level of schooling. They are not supplied with basic amenities like clean water and a place to live. They have no protection under the law. They are the most vulnerable to crimes. They are deprived of every security that a government provides to its citizens. They have been totally excluded from our societies just as they are not one of us.Poverty exists everywhere. Recent global level estimates suggest that almost half of the 6 billion population of the world live on $2 a day, and about one-fifth live on less than $1 a day. Around 44% of the world’s poor population live in South Asia only. Although the poor population living under $1 a day declined from 1987-99, however the actual number of poor has increased. According to estimates, if the present situation persists, the total number of poor living under $1 a day is going to increase from 1.2 billion to 1.8 billion by 2015. However there is a regional variation in the incidence of poverty. East Asia, North Africa and Middle East have so far been able to cope with poverty and have relatively less number of poor population. But, in other regions, conspicuously, South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa the number of absolute poor have increased since the last one and a half-decade. These two regions consist of the world’s 70% poor population that lives below $1 a day. Within South Africa there is a variation among countries in respect of poverty. Recent researches reveal that poverty in Nepal and Bangladesh is the highest followed by Pakistan and India. Some surveys suggest that Pakistan has a population of about 141.5 million. The population has grown at a rate of 2.5% since ‘90s. The population density of Pakistan is about 183-persons/square km. The gross national income is $59.6 billion, which means per capita gross national income is $421. The life expectancy in Pakistan is 63 years and under child mortality rate is 110/year. Adult literacy rate in Pakistan is 57%. Official stats also suggest that 33% population lives below poverty line. In the poor population of Pakistan, 38% population lives in Urban areas while 62% is found in rural areas.The causes of poverty are complex, deep-rooted and often less understood. The main causes of poverty are lack of education; inequality in distribution of incomes and assets; and pervasive corruption along with several other causes including natural calamities, inflation, unemployment, flawed policies of Govt. and disturbed law & order situation. The more superior cause among these is the inequality of distribution of assets. In Pakistan, the initial pattern of land distribution is very skewed, largely due to the allocation of large tracts of newly irrigated lands to loyal nawabs, sardars, khans and jagirdars by the British in pre-partition India. The inequality in land distribution has since then widened itself. The pattern of income is even worse in the industrial sectors. The benefits of high growths in the ‘60s were not distributed evenly. It is an astounding fact that two-thirds of the country’s industrial assets are controlled by 22 families. A recent SPDC study reveals that out of every increment in the GDP of one rupee, 48 paisas accrues the richest 20 per cent and only 7 paisa to the poorest 20 per cent. This shows how inequally the wealth is distributed in Pakistan. The other biggest cause of poverty is lack of education. Education is the only key to human and social development. Education is the only quality which incites in the people the quality of decision-making and planning effective strategies. Simply it is the key through which people can know how to tackle their problems i-e: poor health, powerlessness, insecurity and isolation etc. Education is the only way that poors can empower themselves to attain their rights. The third main problem is the corruption in the government system. The government allocates a large amount of funds to alleviate this menace (poverty) but the system is so corrupt that hardly a small portion of the funds reach the poor to assuage their grievances. The poor are deprived of all the rights and privileges due to the corrupt system. The rich are prioritized over the poor in the fields of justice, protection and freedom of choice and action. Thus a sensation of powerlessness is felt among the poors. Besides other reason, natural calamities also count. Most of the time the worst hit due to the natural calamities are the poor as they are the least protected. The destruction further reduces them to more poverty. Inflation too is a real hazards for the poor. With their meagre resources they are hardly able to make both ends meet. Meanwhile, when the ugly monster of inflation rears up its head, and engulfs the poor in its grip. Inflation raises the prices of basically needed commodities while luxurious commodities like Cars, Refridgerator, A.C, Television feel a major fall in their prices. So this alludes that inflation only affects the poor, not the rich. Employment too is elusive for the poor. They can't afford the market rates of jobs and merit doesn't count much in present state of affairs. Govt. Policies too are playing a vital role to nurture this menace. For instance, consider tax policies. The direct taxes which hit the rich are decelerating however the indirect taxes which effectively strike the poor are on the rise. These were the main reasons behind the upsurge in poverty. The list is still unending.Poverty creates more poverty and destroys the productive capacity of individuals, communities and nations. There are a far more severe consequences of this chronic poverty. Poor want to survive and to do that, their poverty leaves them with no choice except stepping into the world of crimes. Poverty is the major source of the crimes. The poor involve themselves in heinous crimes like prostitution, extortion, drug-addiction, kidnapping for ransom and contract-killings etc. These kinds of crime lead into dire deadlocks, which are adverse for the every individual in the country. These crimes create the sensation of insecurity among people, repel foreign investment and create hatred in the hearts of rich for the poor etc. Thus everybody suffers the repercussions of poverty.The government of Pakistan has taken some serious steps in alleviating poverty. For example, it has launched micro-credit-financing schemes. Micro-credit schemes are very effective instruments of providing self-employment opportunities to the poor. Pakistan has two complementary micro-credit programmes through the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) and the Khushali Bank (KB). PPAF has disbursed Rs. 4 billion in the past five years and KB Rs. 3 billion in three years. For intellectual development it has set the cost of education in Government institute free or nominal. To raise the influx, the government is providing several incentives to students on various occasions throughout the year. Scholarships are also awarded to deserving people. This policy in the long-term is going to be an effective strategy to alleviate poverty at the grass-roots level. The government has also commenced several mega projects including dams, industries, ports and small and medium enterprises. These projects are targeting help directly at the poor. These mega projects will create a lots of employment alongwith facilities and services, all for the poor. In reality, these projects will help boost the country's economy and achieving larger growth rates. The Government also has signed various pacts with Malaysia which has promised to recruit 100,000 people from Pakistan for employment there. The employed ones will send remittances to Pakistan ultimately influencing straight on the poor sector. At the end, Pakistani Government is encouraging competition in the Telecommunication Sector which is attracting a lots of Foreign Investors. Thus creating too many employment opportunities as well as cheaper and better services.The Government of Pakistan still needs systematize its present plans and take more steps to check poverty. The micro-credit programmes (PPAF and KB) disburse Rs. 4 and 3 million respectively. Thus the annual rate of disbursement is Rs. 1.8 billion, which ultimately makes Rs. 25000-30000 to a small proportion of the poor population. However, it doesn't remove the poverty permanently. The Government has provided incentives and funds in education sector. But it has failed to maintain a standard quality of education. It needs to work out sincerely to breakaway the barriers of mediocrity. The mega-projects which have been introduced are a good step. But the projects are still less to satisfy the needs of such a large population. The Government needs to keep the good work up and introduce as more mega projects as it can. The employment contract signed between Malaysia and Pakistan is somewhat encouraging. But 100,000 won't make such a big difference. Pakistan needs to attract other countries towards its cheap labour and sign contracts with other countries. Such a large drop-out from the country will pacify the load on the country's economy in terms of petty resources alongwith drag in a huge amount of remittances. Just as the competition in Telecommunication sector has begun, the Government needs to attract more foreign investors in other fields in order to arrange more employment, provide quality services at cheaper rates. These were the recommendations to add 5 stars to the achievements of the Government of Pakistan. Now lets see what is more needed to be done. The Government's present Tax Policies are anti-poor and pro-rich. This thing needs to be reversed to properly distribute assets and wealth between rich and the poor. Presently, the taxes collected in the National Exchequer prove the be a major part of the income of the poor due to flawed direct and indirect tax policies. The direct taxes should be given a limit of around Rs. 25000. The direct taxes should be forgiven to people earning less than the limit amount. While it should be imposed vigorously, transparently and cruelly imposed on people earning more than the limit. This is how the poor and middle class will breakaway through the direct taxes. And for indirect taxes, the base should keep minimizing. The strategy should be like nobody suffers, neither the poor & middle class nor the Government. The luxurious and noble commodities and services specifically utilized by the rich should be taxed fervently. This is the way to fill the wide gap of inequality. If we can't make the poor rich, lets make the rich poor. This will ultimately eradicate the sense of elitism. Thus the universal goal of unity and brotherhood will be achieved. In the agriculture area, the distribution of lands need to be looked out. The jagirdars, sardars and nawabs should be deprived of their land and the recovered land should be alloted to tenants. Side by side modern techniques should be introduced for better production. The Farmers should be given technical education in sync with the modern scenario. Crop cultivation should be done strategically. The more water-consuming crops should be imported and the available amount of water should be used carefully and cautiously. This will solve the major problem of water crises in our country. The industrial area needs some concessions. The industries should be provided with basic necessities at their service with cheap costs. This will help calling down prices. Everyyear, the government collects a huge amount of Zakat (poor-due). This amount is most efficiently used up by white-collar criminals to fill up their bank accounts. Only a small proportion of this amount reaches the poor which doesn't help long. Instead the Government should allocate the zakat (poor-due) fund of every district and invest that fund in the owning districts to establish industries, factories or small enterprises. Doing this will create employment opportunities and the yearly profits from the invested-sector can be used to aid the poor just like the Government does. By the other hand, the Zakat collection by the Government everyyear can be used on development projects thus enhancing the standard of life. Nowadays mediocrity has been on a rise in Pakistan. It is all due to the falling standards of educational institutions throughout the country. The remedy to this situation needs some time, meanwhile what the Government needs to work on is Technical Education. For instance, if you want to build a bungalow, you will get the finest architect in Pakistan but if you've got a leaking tap, you will never find a skilled plumber. The government needs to encourage people to step in the world of technical education. This will help solve the unemployment problems.All these steps can achieve striking results only if followed with total integrity and transparency. These two features in the Government can prove to be a cornerstone in building a STRONG AND PROSPEROUS PAKISTAN. - Ameeen.
THE LAWS OF THE BEARD
THE LAWS OF THE BEARD AND THE HAIR IN THE LIGHT OF THE AHADITH
by Moulana Fadhlur Rahmaan Saheb
PROOF THAT TO KEEP A BEARD IS WAAJIBAll Ulema regard keeping of the beard at least one fist length, as being Waajib or Fardh and trimming it less than this as Haraam on the basis that it is the nature and disposition blessed upon man by Allaah Ta'aala. Similarly it was the pattern and practice of all the Ambiyaa (Alaihis Salaam).Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has always emphatically commanded the keeping of the beard. Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and his blessed Companions also practised upon it. Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) abhorred such Kaafirs who shaved their beards. He disliked even looking at them.AHAADITHIbn Umar (Radhiallahu-anhu) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said: "Oppose the Mushrikeen (idolaters) and lengthen the beard and shorten the moustache". [Bukhari Vol 2 pg 875]Abu Hurairah (Radhiallahu-anhu) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said: "Trim the moustache and lengthen the beard (let the beard hang). Oppose the fire worshippers". [Muslim Vol 1 pg 129 Pakistani Edition]Ayesha (Radhiallahu-anha) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said: "Ten things are fitrat (natural). To cut the moustache and lengthen the beard (are from amongst these ten things)." [Muslim Vol 1 pg 129]Ibn Abbas (RA) reports from Hadhrat Ayesha (Radhiallahu-anha) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has cursed such men who imitate women and such women who imitate men. In one narration it stated that such people should be thrown out of their houses. [Bukhari Vol 2 pg 874]From the above narrations the Mujtahideen and Fuqaha have decreed that it is waajib to keep a beard, because there is a common order mentioned in the Hadith proving wujoob (compulsory) and when there is no reason to take any other meaning. In these Ahaadith there is no other reason, hence it proves wujoob.Imaan Nawawi writes in the commentary of Sahih Muslim that the word "Ifaa" (as mentioned in the Hadith) means to lengthen. The word "afoo" means the same. It was the habit of the Persians to shave their beards. The shariat has forbidden it. [commentary of Sahib Muslim Vole 1 Pg 129]. Thereafter Imaan Nawawi (RA) writes five words have been mentioned in the various narrations. The explanation of all these words are that the beard should be kept in its original form. [Vol 1 pg 129).Hafiz ibn Hajar(RA) has also written in the commentary of Sahih Bukhari that the fire worshipers used to shave the beards and some of them used to trim it. The Ahaadith has ordered that these ways should be opposed. [Fathul Baari Vol 10 pg 288]All the Sahaba, Tabieen and pious believers have acted upon this order of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Acting contrary to this order has not been recorded. Instead, stern warnings and admonitions have been narrated for not keeping a beard. Therefore, this command is wajib (compulsory).Hadith No. 4 on P.6 indicates that by shaving the beard, amounts to imitating women, and therefore cursed by Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and being distanced from the mercy of Allaah. The sin on which a stern warning is given is regarded as a Major Sin. Thus to shave the beard is also a major sin, and the person who commits a major sin is faasiq (i.e. being outside the bounds of Allaah's orders and obedience). The Imaamat and Azaan of a Faasiq is Makrooh, similarly a faasiq's testification and evidence is rejected. Therefore the Muftis have passed the ruling of wujoob for keeping a beard. (May Allaah save all the Muslims from this curse).AN INSTANCE OF NABI (SALLALLAAHU ALYHI WASALLAM'S) ABHORRENCE FOR THE SHAVING OF THE BEARDHafiz Ibn Katheer(RA) has quoted an incident in his book, Al Bidayah wa Nihaya, that Bazaan, a minister of the king of Persia (Kisra) sent two men to capture Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) (May Allaah forbid). When two men came, Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) disliked to even look at them as their beards were shaven and their moustaches long. Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) asked them: "Who ordered you to do this (i.e. shave your beards and keep your moustaches long)". They replied: "Our Rabb, Kisra (King of Persia)". Upon this Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) replied: "But My Rabb ordered me to lengthen my beard and cut my moustache." [Al Bidayah wa Nihaya Vol.1 pg 270]This incident has been quoted in many booksNote: Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) objected to their actions although they were Kaafirs, and even disliked looking at them. Hence, one can imagine how unpleased and unhappy Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallain) will be if an Ummati of his who claims to have love for him, shaves the beard. One of the three questions that will be asked in the grave "What have you to say regarding this person". According to some Ulema the blessed face of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) will be presented when this question will be asked. How will a person who shaves his beard face Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam). What a great deprivation will it be if Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has to turn his face away because of his unhappiness and dislike. Similarly on the plains of reckoning also a person will come in front of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) for intersession. What answer will a person have to offer if Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has to ask that you neglected my way and chose the ways of my enemies, the Kuffaar and the Mushrikeen?"May Allaah Ta'aala grant us the ability to repent sincerely and conform to the Sunnat of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam).Many sins are such that a person only remains a sinner while he is involved in that particular sin e.g. adultery - homosexuality drinking - lying - stealing etc. When he stops doing so, then the sin also comes to an end. Trimming or shaving of the beard on the other hand is such a sin that until a person does not repent and start keeping a Shari Beard, he will remain a perpetual sinner. He will be regarded as a sinner even whilst sleeping or eating and even whilst performing Ibaadat. This increases the seriousness of this sin. At the time of Ibaadat, just as Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) abhorred it, similarly if Allaah Ta'aala does not focus the level of acceptance on the person, then his Ibaadat will not reach the level of acceptance. Then ponder and think what will be that person's condition in the Aakhiraat (Hereafter)!AN INTERESTING INCIDENTMirza Qateel was a Persian poet of the past who rendered many poems on Marifat (Recognition -of Allaah) and wisdom (Hikmat). An Iranian, after reading Qateel's poems, became his ardent follower and finally came to meet him, expecting him to be a very pious person. When the Iranian person came, he saw the poet shaving his beard. Surprised, he asked "You are shaving your beard?" Qateel replied: "Yes I am shaving my beard but I am not hurting anyone's heart". Upon this the person immediately said: "Why not, you are hurting Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam's) heart". Hearing this the poet fell unconscious. After regaining consciousness he recited a Persian couplet which means:"Thanks to you, for opening my eyes and making me understand".SHAR'EE RULING OF KEEPING A BEARDIt is Waajib (compulsory) for a Muslim male to grow a beard. It is also Waajib to let the beard grow a fist length. It is prohibited to cut or shave the beard. He who does so is a Faasiq (sinner) and to shorten it less than a fist length is Makruh Tahrimi (near Haraam). This is the view of the majority of scholars. (see Wujoob I'efaaul-lihyah of Shaykhul Hadith, Ml. Muhammad Zakariyyah and the footnotes of ex-grand Mufti of Saudia – Shaykh ibn Baaz)Verdict of Keeping the Beard according to the Hanafi MadhabAllaamah ibnul Humaam (RA) has mentioned that nobody has permitted the trimming of the beard lesser than a fist length. (Fathul Qadeer; Shaami; Fataawa Mahmoodiyyah vol.5 pgs.93, 105, 108)Quotations of other MadhaahibHereunder are some quotations from the Ulama of other Madhaahib (schools of thought) which support the above. More clarity can be attained by referring to the present day scholars of each Madhab.The Shaafi'ee MadhabAllaamah Nawawi (RA) states, `The correct view (according to the Shaafi'ee Madhab) is to leave the beard to grow and it is Makrooh to trim the beard whatsoever.' (al-Majmoo vol.1 pg.290; also see Sharh Saheeh Muslim vol.2 pg.143)Allaamah al-Iraaqi (RA) states in his book entitled, `Tarhu Tathreeb' (vol.2 pg.8): `… that the best is to leave the beard totally and not to cut anything from it at all, and this is the view of Imaam al-Shaafi'ee and his students.'There are quotations from 2 great scholars of the Shaafi'ee Madhab that do not permit the trimming of the beard at all, not even upto one fist.The Maaliki MadhabImaam Abul-Waleed al-Baaji al-Maaliki (RA) has stated that: It has been narrated from Imaam Maalik (RA) that he permitted the slight trimming of those hairs that are overgrown and are outside the general growth of the rest of the hair, and that Imaam Maalik (RA) was asked about a beard that had grown extremely long, he replied that it should be trimmed a bit.'Imaam Abul-Waalid explains the following, `And it has been narrated from Abdullah ibn Umar and Abu Hurayra (Radhiallaahu Anhum) that they trimmed upto one fist.' Hence, this is what was meant by Imaam Maalik. (refer al-Muntaqa vol.7 pg.266)Imaam al-Qurtubi al-Maaliki (RA) has also mentioned something similar to this in his commentary of Sahih Muslim. (see al-Mufhim vol.1 pg.513)The Hanbali MadhabImaam Saamiri (RA) – who is an expert Hanbali Faqeeh (jurists) - states: And he should not trim any bit from the beard except if he wishes to do so upto the extent of one fist. However, it will be best if he doesn't do so.' (al-Mustaw'ib vol.1 pg.260 – see Hukm al-Lihyah fil Madhaahibil arba'ah; Abdul-Aziz al-Nu'maani pg.50)Another Hanbali scholar, Imaam Shamsuddeen al-Maqdisi (RA) states, `It is forbidden to shave the beard and it is not Makrooh to trim what is in excess of a fist's length… because this is supported by the practice of Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu).' (Kitaabul Furoo vol.1 pg.130; Ibid)Similar verdicts are found in other sources of Hanbali Fiqh such as al-Mubdi of ibn Muflih, al-Insaaf of al-Maawardi; Kashful Qinaa, etc. (Hukm al-lihyah pg.50)It is clear from all these quotations that it is permissible to trim the beard only up to a fist length. No one has explicitly mentioned that it is permissible to trim the beard lesser than a fist length. In fact, according to some of these quotations, it will be better not to trim the beard at all.Proof of WujoobThere are various Ahaadith of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] in which the keeping and lengthening of the beard have been ordered. We will just mention a few that prove the above claim.1) Imaam Bukhari (Rahimahullaah) reports on the authority of Imaam Naafi' [ra] who narrates from Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, 'Oppose the Mushrikeen (polytheists); lengthen the beards and trim the moustaches.'Imaam Naafi' (RA) further states, 'And ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) during Hajj or Umrah used to hold on to his beard with his fist and cut off whatever was in excess of that.' (Bukhari vol.2 pg.875; Kitaab-ul-Libaas no.5892)Note: This Hadith has also been narrated by Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra [Radhiallaahu anhu] and he is also reported to have trimmed his beard upto one fist.The verdict of the growing of the beard being Waajib (obligatory) is deduced from this Hadith. That is because any explicit command of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) will be regarded as Waajib, if there is no apparent, clear reason/proof which states that that particular command is for Istihbaab (preference). This is an established fact in Usool-ul-Fiqh (principles of jurisprudence). Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] has commanded the Ummah to lengthen the beards. Allah Ta'ala has mentioned in the noble Qur'aan, `Those who disobey his (Rasulullah – Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) should beware of a trial or painful punishment that will afflict them.' (Surah Noor 63)Allamah Nawawi (RA) has explained that this Hadith has been reported with various wordings:*The word, `Waffiroo' is mentioned in Sahih Bukhari (Hadith5892)*In another narration of Bukhari. The words `Ufoo' is mentioned (Sahih Bukhari Hadith5893)*The word `Arkhoo' is mentioned in Sahih Muslim (Hadith602)*The word `Awfoo' is mentioned in Sahih Bukhari (Hadith5892) and Sahih Muslim (Hadith601). All these words imply the same meaning and that is to lengthen and to increase the growth of the beard. (Fathul Bari vol.10 pg.429, 431; Sharh al-Nawawi alaa Saheeh Muslim vol.2 pg.143)Hafiz ibn Jareer al-Tabari (ra) has stated that some Ulama have totally disliked that one trims his beard at all, while others have permitted trimming upto a fist length. (Fathul Bari vol.10 pg.430)2) When the two messengers of Kisraa (Khusru – the Persian King) came to Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam], they had long moustaches and shaved beards. Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam turned his face away in disgust and asked them, `Who commanded you to do this (despicable deed)?' They replied, `Our Lord, (i.e. King)' At this, Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] mentioned, `But my Lord has commanded me to lengthen my beard and shorten my moustache.' (Tabaqaat ibn Sa'ad vol.1 pg.147; Taareekh Tabari vol.2 pg.267-266; Bidaaya wan Nihaaya)3) In this narration, Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] has stated that to lengthen the beard is infact the command of Allah Ta'ala Himself.Furthermore, the Wujoob is further emphasized by the fact that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) did practice on this in his entire life. Know well that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) did not trim his beard in his life. In fact, the beard of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] was dense and almost covered his blessed chest. (Shamaail Tirmidhi Hadith8; Dalaail al-Nubuwwah of Imaam Bayhaqi vol.1 pg.235)Actions of the Sahaaba [radhiallaahu anhum]The narrator (Ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) himself trimmed his beard upto a fist's length, this implies that the Wujoob of keeping a beard is up to a fist length only (this will be explained shortly).Furthermore, this (trimming upto a fist length) has also been reported from Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra (Radhiallaahu Anhu) and other Taabi'een. (Tamheed of ibn Abdul-Barr al-Muntaqaa and Fathul Baari vol.10 pg.430). Bear in mind that Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra [radhiallaahu anhu] has also narrated a Hadith wherein we are commanded to lengthen the beards. (Sahih Muslim Hadith602)Moreover, for the benefit of your knowledge, the sayings and actions of the Sahaaba (Radhiallaahu Anhum) is a Hujjah (proof). This is also an established principle in Usool-ul-Fiqh.A MisconceptionMany individuals who fail to understand the above, argue that it is Waajib to keep a beard, but there is no mention of any specific length in the Hadith. Hence, if one has a bit of hair on his face – irrespective of the length – it would be permissible, because this is also called a beard!They also argue that to keep a beard upto a fist's length is the act of a Sahaabi [- Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar - radhiallaahu anhu – and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra – Radhiallaahu anhu] and it is not the command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. Hence, the one who chooses not to do so will not be contravening any command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam], so why is such emphasis being put on the length of one fist?This – unfortunately – is a result of a lack of understanding of the actual wording of the Hadith. Firstly, in the Hadith we have quoted, Rasulullah [sallallahu alayhi wasallam] has commanded us to lengthen the beard and not just to `keep' a beard. The difference between the two is quite clear. If one just `keeps' a shortened beard, he will not be fulfilling the command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam].Therefore, the one who intentionally keeps a trimmed beard will not be fulfilling the command of lengthening the beard. The lengthening is Waajib, not just having any sort of a beard.Secondly, the Hadith – as is clear – is general and does not specify any length of the beard. The words, `u'ful lluhaa / waffiroo-lluhaa' in the Hadith commands us to lengthen the beards, which will (literally) mean, `it is Waajib to let the beard grow' upto whatever length it reaches. If we did not have the narration of Naafi' that Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) did trim his beard, then this would have been the case.However, the narrator himself (Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra – radhiallaahu anhuma) as well as other Taabi'een (Radhiallaahu Anhum) did trim their beards upto one fist's length, the Ulama have deduced that this means that the Wujoob (obligation) of lengthening is only upto a fist's length. Neither can we say that it is not permissible to trim it at all – resulting in the accusation of the Sahaaba (Radhiallaahu Anhum) of contradicting the explicit command of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and especially the narrator, (Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar and sayyiduna Abu Hurayra - Radhiallaahu Anhuma). Nor can one claim the permissibility of trimming it upto less than a fist's length, for there is no proof for this in Shari'ah.Hence, if a person has to trim his beard up to a fist's length it would be permissible and if he does so up to shorter than a fist's length, he will be going against an act which is Waajib and this is not permissible, and if he chooses not to trim it at all, this will also be permissible.The practice of the Sahaabi [radhiallaahu anhu] here is used for 'permissibility' of cutting upto a fist's length, because – being the narrator – this is what he understood to be the intended meaning of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. In other words, the Sahaabi [radhiallaahu anhu] had understood that the command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] of lengthening the beard only applies upto a fist's length and not more. That is why they (the sahaabah concerned – Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra - radhiallaahu anhuma) used to trim what was in excess of one fist. It is not Waajib to follow them in doing so. What is Waajib in this situation is to let it grow, and the action of the Sahaabi is used only to explain that Waajib and restrict going against that.Severity of the SinOne should ponder over the narration that we have quoted concerning the two messengers of the Persian King. How Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] turned his blessed face away from them in disgust. Remember, these were Kaafirs (disbelievers). Imagine if Rasulullah [sallallahu alayhi wasallam] turns his face away from a Muslim on the day of Qiyaamat because he did not have a proper beard! Imagine the plight of that person, Allah forbid.Furthermore, as for the act of shaving, by doing so, one is actually imitating the appearance of women. Rasulullah [Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam] has cursed those males who aspire to resemble the females and vice versa. (Sahih Bukhari)After all, what is it that stops us from at least adopting the outer features of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. Why is it so difficult to make our faces resemble in some way the Mubaarak and blessed face of our beloved Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. The translation of an Arabic couplet is as follows:`And resemble them if you cannot be identical. Verily the resemblance of the noble ones is also a form of success.'Lastly, we hope that this article eradicates all misconceptions regarding the length of the beard. In fact, this would be sufficient for a sincere reader. May Almighty Allah grant each and every Ummati (follower) of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) the ability to keep a beard that fulfils the requirements of the Shari'ah, Aameen.
by Moulana Fadhlur Rahmaan Saheb
PROOF THAT TO KEEP A BEARD IS WAAJIBAll Ulema regard keeping of the beard at least one fist length, as being Waajib or Fardh and trimming it less than this as Haraam on the basis that it is the nature and disposition blessed upon man by Allaah Ta'aala. Similarly it was the pattern and practice of all the Ambiyaa (Alaihis Salaam).Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has always emphatically commanded the keeping of the beard. Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and his blessed Companions also practised upon it. Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) abhorred such Kaafirs who shaved their beards. He disliked even looking at them.AHAADITHIbn Umar (Radhiallahu-anhu) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said: "Oppose the Mushrikeen (idolaters) and lengthen the beard and shorten the moustache". [Bukhari Vol 2 pg 875]Abu Hurairah (Radhiallahu-anhu) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said: "Trim the moustache and lengthen the beard (let the beard hang). Oppose the fire worshippers". [Muslim Vol 1 pg 129 Pakistani Edition]Ayesha (Radhiallahu-anha) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said: "Ten things are fitrat (natural). To cut the moustache and lengthen the beard (are from amongst these ten things)." [Muslim Vol 1 pg 129]Ibn Abbas (RA) reports from Hadhrat Ayesha (Radhiallahu-anha) narrates that Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has cursed such men who imitate women and such women who imitate men. In one narration it stated that such people should be thrown out of their houses. [Bukhari Vol 2 pg 874]From the above narrations the Mujtahideen and Fuqaha have decreed that it is waajib to keep a beard, because there is a common order mentioned in the Hadith proving wujoob (compulsory) and when there is no reason to take any other meaning. In these Ahaadith there is no other reason, hence it proves wujoob.Imaan Nawawi writes in the commentary of Sahih Muslim that the word "Ifaa" (as mentioned in the Hadith) means to lengthen. The word "afoo" means the same. It was the habit of the Persians to shave their beards. The shariat has forbidden it. [commentary of Sahib Muslim Vole 1 Pg 129]. Thereafter Imaan Nawawi (RA) writes five words have been mentioned in the various narrations. The explanation of all these words are that the beard should be kept in its original form. [Vol 1 pg 129).Hafiz ibn Hajar(RA) has also written in the commentary of Sahih Bukhari that the fire worshipers used to shave the beards and some of them used to trim it. The Ahaadith has ordered that these ways should be opposed. [Fathul Baari Vol 10 pg 288]All the Sahaba, Tabieen and pious believers have acted upon this order of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Acting contrary to this order has not been recorded. Instead, stern warnings and admonitions have been narrated for not keeping a beard. Therefore, this command is wajib (compulsory).Hadith No. 4 on P.6 indicates that by shaving the beard, amounts to imitating women, and therefore cursed by Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and being distanced from the mercy of Allaah. The sin on which a stern warning is given is regarded as a Major Sin. Thus to shave the beard is also a major sin, and the person who commits a major sin is faasiq (i.e. being outside the bounds of Allaah's orders and obedience). The Imaamat and Azaan of a Faasiq is Makrooh, similarly a faasiq's testification and evidence is rejected. Therefore the Muftis have passed the ruling of wujoob for keeping a beard. (May Allaah save all the Muslims from this curse).AN INSTANCE OF NABI (SALLALLAAHU ALYHI WASALLAM'S) ABHORRENCE FOR THE SHAVING OF THE BEARDHafiz Ibn Katheer(RA) has quoted an incident in his book, Al Bidayah wa Nihaya, that Bazaan, a minister of the king of Persia (Kisra) sent two men to capture Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) (May Allaah forbid). When two men came, Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) disliked to even look at them as their beards were shaven and their moustaches long. Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) asked them: "Who ordered you to do this (i.e. shave your beards and keep your moustaches long)". They replied: "Our Rabb, Kisra (King of Persia)". Upon this Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) replied: "But My Rabb ordered me to lengthen my beard and cut my moustache." [Al Bidayah wa Nihaya Vol.1 pg 270]This incident has been quoted in many booksNote: Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) objected to their actions although they were Kaafirs, and even disliked looking at them. Hence, one can imagine how unpleased and unhappy Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallain) will be if an Ummati of his who claims to have love for him, shaves the beard. One of the three questions that will be asked in the grave "What have you to say regarding this person". According to some Ulema the blessed face of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) will be presented when this question will be asked. How will a person who shaves his beard face Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam). What a great deprivation will it be if Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has to turn his face away because of his unhappiness and dislike. Similarly on the plains of reckoning also a person will come in front of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) for intersession. What answer will a person have to offer if Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has to ask that you neglected my way and chose the ways of my enemies, the Kuffaar and the Mushrikeen?"May Allaah Ta'aala grant us the ability to repent sincerely and conform to the Sunnat of Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam).Many sins are such that a person only remains a sinner while he is involved in that particular sin e.g. adultery - homosexuality drinking - lying - stealing etc. When he stops doing so, then the sin also comes to an end. Trimming or shaving of the beard on the other hand is such a sin that until a person does not repent and start keeping a Shari Beard, he will remain a perpetual sinner. He will be regarded as a sinner even whilst sleeping or eating and even whilst performing Ibaadat. This increases the seriousness of this sin. At the time of Ibaadat, just as Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) abhorred it, similarly if Allaah Ta'aala does not focus the level of acceptance on the person, then his Ibaadat will not reach the level of acceptance. Then ponder and think what will be that person's condition in the Aakhiraat (Hereafter)!AN INTERESTING INCIDENTMirza Qateel was a Persian poet of the past who rendered many poems on Marifat (Recognition -of Allaah) and wisdom (Hikmat). An Iranian, after reading Qateel's poems, became his ardent follower and finally came to meet him, expecting him to be a very pious person. When the Iranian person came, he saw the poet shaving his beard. Surprised, he asked "You are shaving your beard?" Qateel replied: "Yes I am shaving my beard but I am not hurting anyone's heart". Upon this the person immediately said: "Why not, you are hurting Nabi (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam's) heart". Hearing this the poet fell unconscious. After regaining consciousness he recited a Persian couplet which means:"Thanks to you, for opening my eyes and making me understand".SHAR'EE RULING OF KEEPING A BEARDIt is Waajib (compulsory) for a Muslim male to grow a beard. It is also Waajib to let the beard grow a fist length. It is prohibited to cut or shave the beard. He who does so is a Faasiq (sinner) and to shorten it less than a fist length is Makruh Tahrimi (near Haraam). This is the view of the majority of scholars. (see Wujoob I'efaaul-lihyah of Shaykhul Hadith, Ml. Muhammad Zakariyyah and the footnotes of ex-grand Mufti of Saudia – Shaykh ibn Baaz)Verdict of Keeping the Beard according to the Hanafi MadhabAllaamah ibnul Humaam (RA) has mentioned that nobody has permitted the trimming of the beard lesser than a fist length. (Fathul Qadeer; Shaami; Fataawa Mahmoodiyyah vol.5 pgs.93, 105, 108)Quotations of other MadhaahibHereunder are some quotations from the Ulama of other Madhaahib (schools of thought) which support the above. More clarity can be attained by referring to the present day scholars of each Madhab.The Shaafi'ee MadhabAllaamah Nawawi (RA) states, `The correct view (according to the Shaafi'ee Madhab) is to leave the beard to grow and it is Makrooh to trim the beard whatsoever.' (al-Majmoo vol.1 pg.290; also see Sharh Saheeh Muslim vol.2 pg.143)Allaamah al-Iraaqi (RA) states in his book entitled, `Tarhu Tathreeb' (vol.2 pg.8): `… that the best is to leave the beard totally and not to cut anything from it at all, and this is the view of Imaam al-Shaafi'ee and his students.'There are quotations from 2 great scholars of the Shaafi'ee Madhab that do not permit the trimming of the beard at all, not even upto one fist.The Maaliki MadhabImaam Abul-Waleed al-Baaji al-Maaliki (RA) has stated that: It has been narrated from Imaam Maalik (RA) that he permitted the slight trimming of those hairs that are overgrown and are outside the general growth of the rest of the hair, and that Imaam Maalik (RA) was asked about a beard that had grown extremely long, he replied that it should be trimmed a bit.'Imaam Abul-Waalid explains the following, `And it has been narrated from Abdullah ibn Umar and Abu Hurayra (Radhiallaahu Anhum) that they trimmed upto one fist.' Hence, this is what was meant by Imaam Maalik. (refer al-Muntaqa vol.7 pg.266)Imaam al-Qurtubi al-Maaliki (RA) has also mentioned something similar to this in his commentary of Sahih Muslim. (see al-Mufhim vol.1 pg.513)The Hanbali MadhabImaam Saamiri (RA) – who is an expert Hanbali Faqeeh (jurists) - states: And he should not trim any bit from the beard except if he wishes to do so upto the extent of one fist. However, it will be best if he doesn't do so.' (al-Mustaw'ib vol.1 pg.260 – see Hukm al-Lihyah fil Madhaahibil arba'ah; Abdul-Aziz al-Nu'maani pg.50)Another Hanbali scholar, Imaam Shamsuddeen al-Maqdisi (RA) states, `It is forbidden to shave the beard and it is not Makrooh to trim what is in excess of a fist's length… because this is supported by the practice of Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu).' (Kitaabul Furoo vol.1 pg.130; Ibid)Similar verdicts are found in other sources of Hanbali Fiqh such as al-Mubdi of ibn Muflih, al-Insaaf of al-Maawardi; Kashful Qinaa, etc. (Hukm al-lihyah pg.50)It is clear from all these quotations that it is permissible to trim the beard only up to a fist length. No one has explicitly mentioned that it is permissible to trim the beard lesser than a fist length. In fact, according to some of these quotations, it will be better not to trim the beard at all.Proof of WujoobThere are various Ahaadith of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] in which the keeping and lengthening of the beard have been ordered. We will just mention a few that prove the above claim.1) Imaam Bukhari (Rahimahullaah) reports on the authority of Imaam Naafi' [ra] who narrates from Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, 'Oppose the Mushrikeen (polytheists); lengthen the beards and trim the moustaches.'Imaam Naafi' (RA) further states, 'And ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) during Hajj or Umrah used to hold on to his beard with his fist and cut off whatever was in excess of that.' (Bukhari vol.2 pg.875; Kitaab-ul-Libaas no.5892)Note: This Hadith has also been narrated by Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra [Radhiallaahu anhu] and he is also reported to have trimmed his beard upto one fist.The verdict of the growing of the beard being Waajib (obligatory) is deduced from this Hadith. That is because any explicit command of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) will be regarded as Waajib, if there is no apparent, clear reason/proof which states that that particular command is for Istihbaab (preference). This is an established fact in Usool-ul-Fiqh (principles of jurisprudence). Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] has commanded the Ummah to lengthen the beards. Allah Ta'ala has mentioned in the noble Qur'aan, `Those who disobey his (Rasulullah – Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) should beware of a trial or painful punishment that will afflict them.' (Surah Noor 63)Allamah Nawawi (RA) has explained that this Hadith has been reported with various wordings:*The word, `Waffiroo' is mentioned in Sahih Bukhari (Hadith5892)*In another narration of Bukhari. The words `Ufoo' is mentioned (Sahih Bukhari Hadith5893)*The word `Arkhoo' is mentioned in Sahih Muslim (Hadith602)*The word `Awfoo' is mentioned in Sahih Bukhari (Hadith5892) and Sahih Muslim (Hadith601). All these words imply the same meaning and that is to lengthen and to increase the growth of the beard. (Fathul Bari vol.10 pg.429, 431; Sharh al-Nawawi alaa Saheeh Muslim vol.2 pg.143)Hafiz ibn Jareer al-Tabari (ra) has stated that some Ulama have totally disliked that one trims his beard at all, while others have permitted trimming upto a fist length. (Fathul Bari vol.10 pg.430)2) When the two messengers of Kisraa (Khusru – the Persian King) came to Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam], they had long moustaches and shaved beards. Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam turned his face away in disgust and asked them, `Who commanded you to do this (despicable deed)?' They replied, `Our Lord, (i.e. King)' At this, Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] mentioned, `But my Lord has commanded me to lengthen my beard and shorten my moustache.' (Tabaqaat ibn Sa'ad vol.1 pg.147; Taareekh Tabari vol.2 pg.267-266; Bidaaya wan Nihaaya)3) In this narration, Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] has stated that to lengthen the beard is infact the command of Allah Ta'ala Himself.Furthermore, the Wujoob is further emphasized by the fact that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) did practice on this in his entire life. Know well that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) did not trim his beard in his life. In fact, the beard of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] was dense and almost covered his blessed chest. (Shamaail Tirmidhi Hadith8; Dalaail al-Nubuwwah of Imaam Bayhaqi vol.1 pg.235)Actions of the Sahaaba [radhiallaahu anhum]The narrator (Ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) himself trimmed his beard upto a fist's length, this implies that the Wujoob of keeping a beard is up to a fist length only (this will be explained shortly).Furthermore, this (trimming upto a fist length) has also been reported from Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra (Radhiallaahu Anhu) and other Taabi'een. (Tamheed of ibn Abdul-Barr al-Muntaqaa and Fathul Baari vol.10 pg.430). Bear in mind that Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra [radhiallaahu anhu] has also narrated a Hadith wherein we are commanded to lengthen the beards. (Sahih Muslim Hadith602)Moreover, for the benefit of your knowledge, the sayings and actions of the Sahaaba (Radhiallaahu Anhum) is a Hujjah (proof). This is also an established principle in Usool-ul-Fiqh.A MisconceptionMany individuals who fail to understand the above, argue that it is Waajib to keep a beard, but there is no mention of any specific length in the Hadith. Hence, if one has a bit of hair on his face – irrespective of the length – it would be permissible, because this is also called a beard!They also argue that to keep a beard upto a fist's length is the act of a Sahaabi [- Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar - radhiallaahu anhu – and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra – Radhiallaahu anhu] and it is not the command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. Hence, the one who chooses not to do so will not be contravening any command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam], so why is such emphasis being put on the length of one fist?This – unfortunately – is a result of a lack of understanding of the actual wording of the Hadith. Firstly, in the Hadith we have quoted, Rasulullah [sallallahu alayhi wasallam] has commanded us to lengthen the beard and not just to `keep' a beard. The difference between the two is quite clear. If one just `keeps' a shortened beard, he will not be fulfilling the command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam].Therefore, the one who intentionally keeps a trimmed beard will not be fulfilling the command of lengthening the beard. The lengthening is Waajib, not just having any sort of a beard.Secondly, the Hadith – as is clear – is general and does not specify any length of the beard. The words, `u'ful lluhaa / waffiroo-lluhaa' in the Hadith commands us to lengthen the beards, which will (literally) mean, `it is Waajib to let the beard grow' upto whatever length it reaches. If we did not have the narration of Naafi' that Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) did trim his beard, then this would have been the case.However, the narrator himself (Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra – radhiallaahu anhuma) as well as other Taabi'een (Radhiallaahu Anhum) did trim their beards upto one fist's length, the Ulama have deduced that this means that the Wujoob (obligation) of lengthening is only upto a fist's length. Neither can we say that it is not permissible to trim it at all – resulting in the accusation of the Sahaaba (Radhiallaahu Anhum) of contradicting the explicit command of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and especially the narrator, (Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar and sayyiduna Abu Hurayra - Radhiallaahu Anhuma). Nor can one claim the permissibility of trimming it upto less than a fist's length, for there is no proof for this in Shari'ah.Hence, if a person has to trim his beard up to a fist's length it would be permissible and if he does so up to shorter than a fist's length, he will be going against an act which is Waajib and this is not permissible, and if he chooses not to trim it at all, this will also be permissible.The practice of the Sahaabi [radhiallaahu anhu] here is used for 'permissibility' of cutting upto a fist's length, because – being the narrator – this is what he understood to be the intended meaning of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. In other words, the Sahaabi [radhiallaahu anhu] had understood that the command of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] of lengthening the beard only applies upto a fist's length and not more. That is why they (the sahaabah concerned – Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra - radhiallaahu anhuma) used to trim what was in excess of one fist. It is not Waajib to follow them in doing so. What is Waajib in this situation is to let it grow, and the action of the Sahaabi is used only to explain that Waajib and restrict going against that.Severity of the SinOne should ponder over the narration that we have quoted concerning the two messengers of the Persian King. How Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] turned his blessed face away from them in disgust. Remember, these were Kaafirs (disbelievers). Imagine if Rasulullah [sallallahu alayhi wasallam] turns his face away from a Muslim on the day of Qiyaamat because he did not have a proper beard! Imagine the plight of that person, Allah forbid.Furthermore, as for the act of shaving, by doing so, one is actually imitating the appearance of women. Rasulullah [Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam] has cursed those males who aspire to resemble the females and vice versa. (Sahih Bukhari)After all, what is it that stops us from at least adopting the outer features of Rasulullah [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. Why is it so difficult to make our faces resemble in some way the Mubaarak and blessed face of our beloved Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam]. The translation of an Arabic couplet is as follows:`And resemble them if you cannot be identical. Verily the resemblance of the noble ones is also a form of success.'Lastly, we hope that this article eradicates all misconceptions regarding the length of the beard. In fact, this would be sufficient for a sincere reader. May Almighty Allah grant each and every Ummati (follower) of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) the ability to keep a beard that fulfils the requirements of the Shari'ah, Aameen.
Liver Cancer
Liver is the second largest human organ, coming after skin. It is the chemical factory of human body and has some important functions, as storing some nutrients, converting fat to energy when necessary, producing bile, making certain amino acids, filtering harmful substances from blood, producing cholesterol, and so on. No one can live without liver. Liver cancer is the sixth most common diagnosed cancer and the third cause of cancer death worldwide. The incidence rates of liver cancer in Europe, and America is low, while the incidence rate of East Asia and Middle Africa can be three-fold higher than the average level, perhaps due to the high infection rate of hepatitis B and C and consumption of foods contaminated with aflatoxin in those areas. And the incidence rate in males is about three times that in females. But even in western country the new cases of primary liver cancer increase while many other cancers are declining. What is liver cancer?Liver cancer refers to the growth of malignant tumors in liver tissue. Cancer is named after where it originally starts. Only cancer that starts in the liver is called liver cancer, or primary liver cancer. In all cases of liver tumors, primary liver cancer is relatively rare. In most cases, it is secondary cancer or metastatic liver cancer, which means that tumor originally grows in other part of the body, has spread to liver. Usually the data of liver cancer only refers to the cases of primary liver cancer. There are two different types of primary liver cancer, heptoma and cholangiocarcinoma. Heptoma or hepatocullular carcinoma (HCC) is the cancer that arises from hepatocytes, the main function liver cells. HCC is a ball-like tumor, usually confined to the liver, thought sometimes it spreads to other organs. It is more common in men and mostly occurs in people with cirrhosis. Cholangiocarcinoma or bile duct cancer starts in the bile duct cells. This cancer grows along the bile ducts in sheets or lines, and is hard to find with X-ray. Cholangiocarcinoma is more common in women. Some primary tumors in the liver are benign (non-cancerous). They are usually small and may cause no symptoms. And they do not usually need to be removed unless they are causing symptoms. Most cases of liver cancer are actually metastases. Liver is one of the most common places for metastases to grow due to its high blood flow and biological functions. Secondary liver cancers can be metastases originally from colon, pancreas, stomach, lung or breast. What are the symptoms for liver cancer?A very early liver cancer usually has little or no symptoms since it is too small to cause any. As the cancer enlarges, it will have symptoms. Following are some of the symptoms for liver cancers.
Weight loss: Significant weight loss is defined as weight loss of more than 10% of the normal weight. Obvious loss of body weight doesn¡¯t necessarily mean that you are ill if you are on diet. But when there is no obvious explanation for the weight loss, please go to check it out with doctor. Swollen tummy (abdomen): Liver itself can get bigger with the cancer growing large, which may cause swelling over the right side of the abdomen. Meanwhile, sometimes swollen tummy is caused by ascites because the high pressure in the cancerous liver veins forces the fluid to leak from the veins into the abdomen. If ascites does develop, a tube can be put through the wall of the abdomen to drain the fluid away.Jaundice: Jaundice is yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclerae (white of the eyes). As the tumor grows large, the bile ducts of liver can become blocked, and the bile produced by the liver will flow back into the bloodstream, and the bilirubin in the blood accumulates, which causes juandice. Other signs of jaundice are dark-coloured urine and pale stools. The jaundice can be relieved sometimes by itself, or by inserting a narrow tube called stent in to the bile duct to keep it open and to allow the bile to flow normally into the small intestine. Pains: Sometimes people carrying liver cancer may feel a pain in the upper abdomen due to enlargement of the liver. Pains can also be felt in the right shoulder blade as nerves beneath the diaphragm connecting the right shoulder are stimulated by the enlarged liver. Other symptoms of liver cancer include loss of appetite, breast swelling in males, feeling sick and feeling full after a small meal. Some even have a high fever and feel shivery. If you have any one or some of the risk factors for liver cancer, and any of the above symptoms, please go to check it out with your doctor immediately. What are the risk factors for liver cancer?The exact cause of liver cancer is still unknown. But there are several risk factors that are known to increase one¡¯s likelihood to get liver cancer.
Cirrhosis: Over 80 percent of liver cancer cases in western countries are linked to cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is a fine scar tissue throughout the liver due to previous damages, including infection, inherited diseases and alcohol abuse. In the United States, hepatitis C and heavy alcohol drinking over a long period of time are the main causes of liver cirrhosis. However, only a small proportion of people who have liver cirrhosis develop primary liver cancer. Infection: Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) increases greatly the risk of developing liver cancer. Infection with HBV and HCV can also be the cause of cirrhosis, which increases the risk of liver cancer. HBV and HCV can spread from person to person through sharing contaminated needles (such as in drug use), unprotected sex, childbirth and blood transfusion. In the Unites States, infection of HCV is the most common cause of liver cancer while in Asia and developing countries, infection of HBV is more common. People infected by the two virus have higher risk to develop chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Of the two viruses, infection with HBV is more likely to cause symptoms, such as a flu-like illness and jaundice. And only a very small percentage of adults become chronic carriers. But the risk is higher in infants and small children who become infected. HCV, on the other hand, is less likely to cause symptoms. But most people with HCV develop chronic infections, more likely leading to liver cancer. Smoking: There is a link between smoking and liver cancer. Studies conducted in China and Japan show that among those who infected with HBV or HCV, the risk of smoker to develop liver cancer is as high as 12 times of non-smoker¡¯s. Inherited metabolic diseases: Certain inherited metabolic diseases can also lead to liver cancer. People with conditions of haemochromatosis, alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, or porphyria cutanea tarda, have a higher risk of developing hepatoma. Obesity: Obesity can result in fatty liver disease and cirrhosis, which increase the risk of liver cancer. Aflatoxins: Alatoxin is a cancer-causing substances, found in mouldy peanuts, wheat, soybeans, ground nuts, corn and rice. Long-term exposure to aflatoxins is a major cause of hepatoma in Africa and Asia. The risk increases in people with HBV, or HCV infection.Anabolic Steroids: Anabolic steroids are male hormones that some athletes are known to use to increase their strength. Long-term use of anabolic steroid can slightly increase the risk of hepatocellular cancer. Arsenic: Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water, which might occur in some wells, increases the risk of liver cancer. This is more common in parts of East Asia.Diabetes: Diabetes can increase the risk of liver cancer if the patients have other risk factors such as heavy alcohol consumption or chronic hepatitis.Please remember that risk factors are not at all absolute. Having a risk factor, or even several risk factors, does not mean that you will get liver cancer. And many people who carry liver cancer may not have had any known risk factors listed above. How is primary liver cancer staged?Stage tells how widespread a cancer is. It tells whether the cancer is still contained within the liver or has spread to elsewhere. The stage of liver cancer is the most important factor for the doctor to decide the appropriate treatment options. The most accepted stage system of liver cancer is the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM system. It tells the information including, tumor (T), extent of spread to regional lymph nodes (N), and whether the cancer has metastasized to other organ of the body (M).
Information for staging: TX, primary tumor cannot be assessed; T0, no evidence of tumor; T1, single tumor (any size) without invasion into blood vessels; T2, single tumor (any size) with invastion into blood vessels, or multiple tumors none of which are greater than 5 cm across; T3, multiple tumors that are greater than 5 cm across, or a tumor involving a major branch of the portal or hepatic veins; T4, tumor invading a nearby organ (other than the gallbladder), or tumor invading the visceral peritoneum (covering surrounding the liver).NX, regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed; N0, cancer has not spread to regional lymph nodes; N1, the cancer has spread to the regional lymph nodes.MX, distant spread cannot be assessed; M0, the cancer has not spread to distant lymph nodes or other organs; M1, the cancer has spread to distant lymph nodes or other organs. Summary of stages The T, N, M groups are combine to give an overall stage: Stage I - T1, N0, M0: there is a single tumor (any size) that does not invade blood vessels.Stage II - T2, N0, M0: there is a single tumor (any size) that does invade blood vessels; or there are several tumors, and all are less than 5 cm in diameter.Stage IIIA - T3, N0, M0: there are several tumors, and at least one is larger than 5 cm in diameter; or a tumor invades a branch of the major liver blood vessels (portal vein or hepatic vein).Stage IIIB - T4, N0, M0: a tumor invades a nearby organ (other than the gallbladder); or tumor has penetrated the outer covering of the liver.Stage IIIC - Any T, N1, M0: the cancer has invaded nearby lymph nodes, no matter the size and number of tumors.Stage IV - Any T, Any N, M1: the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, no matter the size and number of tumors, and whether nearby lymph nodes involved or not.Traditional TreatmentsThe treatments vary greatly according to the individuals. To create a treatment plan, the most important factor is the stage of liver cancer, and the doctors would also take into account the age, general stage of health, personal preference. Some possible treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy.
SurgerySurgery is the most effective treatment for primary liver cancer that has not spread. There are two main options: liver transplant and partial hepatectomy. Both are potentially curable treatments. But only a very small portion of patients could benefit from surgeries. Hepatectomy is the surgical removal of the liver. The extent of hepactectomy depends on the number, size and site of cancer. The surgery may remove part of liver containing cancer, an entire lobe, or an even larger portion of liver. Liver has an amazing ability for self-repair. Even more than half of the liver is removed, it would grow back to its normal size in a couple of weeks. But hepatectomy is only available for those who are diagnosed early and no cirrhosis or metastasis occurs and whose rest of liver is still healthy. However even hepatectomy is taken, recurrence may occur sometimes if the liver still contains cancer the underlying disease that led to the first one. Liver transplant is to remove the whole liver and to replace it with a liver from another person. It may be a good option for the patients who have cirrhosis. But only those, whose liver tumor is less than 5 cm or up to 3 tumors all smaller than 3 cm across, can have liver transplant. Unfortunately the suitable donor for liver cancer is limited. And for most cases of primary liver cancer, liver transplant couldn¡¯t help. It is a too big surgery to survive if the patient is too ill. Or if the cancer has spread to other part of body, transplant won¡¯t cure it.ChemotherapyIn cancer treatments, doctors use chemotherapy to slow down the progress of cancer and palliate symptoms. But generally, primary liver cancers in adults are not sensitive to the usual chemotherapy. But chemotherapy is a standard tool to hepatoblastoma, the type of liver cancer that affects only children. Chemotherapy is often used to shrink the cancer before the surgery, or try to stop the cancer from coming back after surgery. RadiotherapyRadiotherapy uses high¨Cenergy ray to kill cancer cells. It helps to shrink the cancer to relieve the pain but no improvement of survival since normal liver cancer is sensitive to radiation together with liver cancer cells.
Pilot treatmentsCombination of surgery and immunotherapy for early stage liver cancer.Surgery, or hepatectomy, is the most promising option for early stage liver cancer patients with no cirrhosis to remove the lesion and control the development of the disease. Then CIK biotherapy, as the most efficient immunotherapy at present, will be adopted to kill the tiny scattered cancerous cells in blood and lymph and to restore the immune system.
Features:1. Radical cure for early stage liver cancer.2. Efficient prevention of recurrence and metastasis. 3. No toxicity or side effects to human body. No destroy to normal tissues. CIK cells could recognize and kill cancerous cells with no harm to healthy cells. 4. Quick recovery after treatments. 5. Quality of life improved with an enhanced immune system.Combination of Cryoablation, Gene therapy, Antiangionesis therapy, interventional therapy and immunotherapy for advanced stage liver cancerAdvanced stage refers to stage IIIb or IV. At advanced stage, the liver tumors usually are relative large with multiple metastases. Surgery is no longer available and chemotherapy cannot control the growth of tumor for advanced liver cancer. Our pilot treatment could cease the development of liver cancer and relieve the pains suffered by patients with good quality of life. Cryoablation kills cancer cells by freeze-thaw cycle and it is available to advanced stage liver cancer patients as well as early stage ones. Transcatheter hepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the interventional therapy usually applied to treat liver cancer. Small catheters are punctured to the branches of the hepatic artery supplying the tumors and aliquots of chemotherapy dose and of embolic particles are injected through the catheters. TACE kills tumor in a better efficiency since it cuts off the blood supply for tumor and it allows a higher dose to the cancerous tissue while reducing toxicity to the whole body. CIK-DC cell immunotherapy, the most efficient immunotherapy at present, can kill the tiny scattered cancerous cells in blood and lymph and to restore the immune system.
Features:1. Minimally invasive surgery-cryoablation, with little harm to normal function and little pains to patients, small wound and quick recovery.2. Available for advanced liver cancer patients. Most of primary liver cancers diagnosed are advanced liver cancer patients who have no chance for hepatectomy. Then cryoablation is a good option to remove the lesions safely and quickly.3. Ar-He cryoablation can block out blood vessel, which helps to enhance the therapeutic effects of TACE on large liver tumors.4. CIK-DC cell immunotherapy, as well as enhances the efficacy of Ar-He cryoablation and TACE, can improve the immune function against tumor, which significantly extends survival time with a good quality of life. 5. No toxicity or side effects.The pilot treatment for advanced stage liver cancer offered by CTC removes the lesions as well as improves immune system. It is a promising treatment to improve life quality and extend survival time. Combination of Cryoablation, Gene therapy, Antiangionesis therapy, interventional therapy and immunotherapy for recurrence and metastatic liver cancer. Metastatic liver cancer is secondary liver cancer. Together with recurrence, metastatic liver cancer usually happens in advanced stage, when the patient is too weak for another surgery or for chemotherapy. Combination of Cryoablation, interventional therapy and CIK-DC cell immunotherapy is a good systematic treatment for recurrence and metastatic liver cancer.
Weight loss: Significant weight loss is defined as weight loss of more than 10% of the normal weight. Obvious loss of body weight doesn¡¯t necessarily mean that you are ill if you are on diet. But when there is no obvious explanation for the weight loss, please go to check it out with doctor. Swollen tummy (abdomen): Liver itself can get bigger with the cancer growing large, which may cause swelling over the right side of the abdomen. Meanwhile, sometimes swollen tummy is caused by ascites because the high pressure in the cancerous liver veins forces the fluid to leak from the veins into the abdomen. If ascites does develop, a tube can be put through the wall of the abdomen to drain the fluid away.Jaundice: Jaundice is yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclerae (white of the eyes). As the tumor grows large, the bile ducts of liver can become blocked, and the bile produced by the liver will flow back into the bloodstream, and the bilirubin in the blood accumulates, which causes juandice. Other signs of jaundice are dark-coloured urine and pale stools. The jaundice can be relieved sometimes by itself, or by inserting a narrow tube called stent in to the bile duct to keep it open and to allow the bile to flow normally into the small intestine. Pains: Sometimes people carrying liver cancer may feel a pain in the upper abdomen due to enlargement of the liver. Pains can also be felt in the right shoulder blade as nerves beneath the diaphragm connecting the right shoulder are stimulated by the enlarged liver. Other symptoms of liver cancer include loss of appetite, breast swelling in males, feeling sick and feeling full after a small meal. Some even have a high fever and feel shivery. If you have any one or some of the risk factors for liver cancer, and any of the above symptoms, please go to check it out with your doctor immediately. What are the risk factors for liver cancer?The exact cause of liver cancer is still unknown. But there are several risk factors that are known to increase one¡¯s likelihood to get liver cancer.
Cirrhosis: Over 80 percent of liver cancer cases in western countries are linked to cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is a fine scar tissue throughout the liver due to previous damages, including infection, inherited diseases and alcohol abuse. In the United States, hepatitis C and heavy alcohol drinking over a long period of time are the main causes of liver cirrhosis. However, only a small proportion of people who have liver cirrhosis develop primary liver cancer. Infection: Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) increases greatly the risk of developing liver cancer. Infection with HBV and HCV can also be the cause of cirrhosis, which increases the risk of liver cancer. HBV and HCV can spread from person to person through sharing contaminated needles (such as in drug use), unprotected sex, childbirth and blood transfusion. In the Unites States, infection of HCV is the most common cause of liver cancer while in Asia and developing countries, infection of HBV is more common. People infected by the two virus have higher risk to develop chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Of the two viruses, infection with HBV is more likely to cause symptoms, such as a flu-like illness and jaundice. And only a very small percentage of adults become chronic carriers. But the risk is higher in infants and small children who become infected. HCV, on the other hand, is less likely to cause symptoms. But most people with HCV develop chronic infections, more likely leading to liver cancer. Smoking: There is a link between smoking and liver cancer. Studies conducted in China and Japan show that among those who infected with HBV or HCV, the risk of smoker to develop liver cancer is as high as 12 times of non-smoker¡¯s. Inherited metabolic diseases: Certain inherited metabolic diseases can also lead to liver cancer. People with conditions of haemochromatosis, alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, or porphyria cutanea tarda, have a higher risk of developing hepatoma. Obesity: Obesity can result in fatty liver disease and cirrhosis, which increase the risk of liver cancer. Aflatoxins: Alatoxin is a cancer-causing substances, found in mouldy peanuts, wheat, soybeans, ground nuts, corn and rice. Long-term exposure to aflatoxins is a major cause of hepatoma in Africa and Asia. The risk increases in people with HBV, or HCV infection.Anabolic Steroids: Anabolic steroids are male hormones that some athletes are known to use to increase their strength. Long-term use of anabolic steroid can slightly increase the risk of hepatocellular cancer. Arsenic: Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water, which might occur in some wells, increases the risk of liver cancer. This is more common in parts of East Asia.Diabetes: Diabetes can increase the risk of liver cancer if the patients have other risk factors such as heavy alcohol consumption or chronic hepatitis.Please remember that risk factors are not at all absolute. Having a risk factor, or even several risk factors, does not mean that you will get liver cancer. And many people who carry liver cancer may not have had any known risk factors listed above. How is primary liver cancer staged?Stage tells how widespread a cancer is. It tells whether the cancer is still contained within the liver or has spread to elsewhere. The stage of liver cancer is the most important factor for the doctor to decide the appropriate treatment options. The most accepted stage system of liver cancer is the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM system. It tells the information including, tumor (T), extent of spread to regional lymph nodes (N), and whether the cancer has metastasized to other organ of the body (M).
Information for staging: TX, primary tumor cannot be assessed; T0, no evidence of tumor; T1, single tumor (any size) without invasion into blood vessels; T2, single tumor (any size) with invastion into blood vessels, or multiple tumors none of which are greater than 5 cm across; T3, multiple tumors that are greater than 5 cm across, or a tumor involving a major branch of the portal or hepatic veins; T4, tumor invading a nearby organ (other than the gallbladder), or tumor invading the visceral peritoneum (covering surrounding the liver).NX, regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed; N0, cancer has not spread to regional lymph nodes; N1, the cancer has spread to the regional lymph nodes.MX, distant spread cannot be assessed; M0, the cancer has not spread to distant lymph nodes or other organs; M1, the cancer has spread to distant lymph nodes or other organs. Summary of stages The T, N, M groups are combine to give an overall stage: Stage I - T1, N0, M0: there is a single tumor (any size) that does not invade blood vessels.Stage II - T2, N0, M0: there is a single tumor (any size) that does invade blood vessels; or there are several tumors, and all are less than 5 cm in diameter.Stage IIIA - T3, N0, M0: there are several tumors, and at least one is larger than 5 cm in diameter; or a tumor invades a branch of the major liver blood vessels (portal vein or hepatic vein).Stage IIIB - T4, N0, M0: a tumor invades a nearby organ (other than the gallbladder); or tumor has penetrated the outer covering of the liver.Stage IIIC - Any T, N1, M0: the cancer has invaded nearby lymph nodes, no matter the size and number of tumors.Stage IV - Any T, Any N, M1: the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, no matter the size and number of tumors, and whether nearby lymph nodes involved or not.Traditional TreatmentsThe treatments vary greatly according to the individuals. To create a treatment plan, the most important factor is the stage of liver cancer, and the doctors would also take into account the age, general stage of health, personal preference. Some possible treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy.
SurgerySurgery is the most effective treatment for primary liver cancer that has not spread. There are two main options: liver transplant and partial hepatectomy. Both are potentially curable treatments. But only a very small portion of patients could benefit from surgeries. Hepatectomy is the surgical removal of the liver. The extent of hepactectomy depends on the number, size and site of cancer. The surgery may remove part of liver containing cancer, an entire lobe, or an even larger portion of liver. Liver has an amazing ability for self-repair. Even more than half of the liver is removed, it would grow back to its normal size in a couple of weeks. But hepatectomy is only available for those who are diagnosed early and no cirrhosis or metastasis occurs and whose rest of liver is still healthy. However even hepatectomy is taken, recurrence may occur sometimes if the liver still contains cancer the underlying disease that led to the first one. Liver transplant is to remove the whole liver and to replace it with a liver from another person. It may be a good option for the patients who have cirrhosis. But only those, whose liver tumor is less than 5 cm or up to 3 tumors all smaller than 3 cm across, can have liver transplant. Unfortunately the suitable donor for liver cancer is limited. And for most cases of primary liver cancer, liver transplant couldn¡¯t help. It is a too big surgery to survive if the patient is too ill. Or if the cancer has spread to other part of body, transplant won¡¯t cure it.ChemotherapyIn cancer treatments, doctors use chemotherapy to slow down the progress of cancer and palliate symptoms. But generally, primary liver cancers in adults are not sensitive to the usual chemotherapy. But chemotherapy is a standard tool to hepatoblastoma, the type of liver cancer that affects only children. Chemotherapy is often used to shrink the cancer before the surgery, or try to stop the cancer from coming back after surgery. RadiotherapyRadiotherapy uses high¨Cenergy ray to kill cancer cells. It helps to shrink the cancer to relieve the pain but no improvement of survival since normal liver cancer is sensitive to radiation together with liver cancer cells.
Pilot treatmentsCombination of surgery and immunotherapy for early stage liver cancer.Surgery, or hepatectomy, is the most promising option for early stage liver cancer patients with no cirrhosis to remove the lesion and control the development of the disease. Then CIK biotherapy, as the most efficient immunotherapy at present, will be adopted to kill the tiny scattered cancerous cells in blood and lymph and to restore the immune system.
Features:1. Radical cure for early stage liver cancer.2. Efficient prevention of recurrence and metastasis. 3. No toxicity or side effects to human body. No destroy to normal tissues. CIK cells could recognize and kill cancerous cells with no harm to healthy cells. 4. Quick recovery after treatments. 5. Quality of life improved with an enhanced immune system.Combination of Cryoablation, Gene therapy, Antiangionesis therapy, interventional therapy and immunotherapy for advanced stage liver cancerAdvanced stage refers to stage IIIb or IV. At advanced stage, the liver tumors usually are relative large with multiple metastases. Surgery is no longer available and chemotherapy cannot control the growth of tumor for advanced liver cancer. Our pilot treatment could cease the development of liver cancer and relieve the pains suffered by patients with good quality of life. Cryoablation kills cancer cells by freeze-thaw cycle and it is available to advanced stage liver cancer patients as well as early stage ones. Transcatheter hepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the interventional therapy usually applied to treat liver cancer. Small catheters are punctured to the branches of the hepatic artery supplying the tumors and aliquots of chemotherapy dose and of embolic particles are injected through the catheters. TACE kills tumor in a better efficiency since it cuts off the blood supply for tumor and it allows a higher dose to the cancerous tissue while reducing toxicity to the whole body. CIK-DC cell immunotherapy, the most efficient immunotherapy at present, can kill the tiny scattered cancerous cells in blood and lymph and to restore the immune system.
Features:1. Minimally invasive surgery-cryoablation, with little harm to normal function and little pains to patients, small wound and quick recovery.2. Available for advanced liver cancer patients. Most of primary liver cancers diagnosed are advanced liver cancer patients who have no chance for hepatectomy. Then cryoablation is a good option to remove the lesions safely and quickly.3. Ar-He cryoablation can block out blood vessel, which helps to enhance the therapeutic effects of TACE on large liver tumors.4. CIK-DC cell immunotherapy, as well as enhances the efficacy of Ar-He cryoablation and TACE, can improve the immune function against tumor, which significantly extends survival time with a good quality of life. 5. No toxicity or side effects.The pilot treatment for advanced stage liver cancer offered by CTC removes the lesions as well as improves immune system. It is a promising treatment to improve life quality and extend survival time. Combination of Cryoablation, Gene therapy, Antiangionesis therapy, interventional therapy and immunotherapy for recurrence and metastatic liver cancer. Metastatic liver cancer is secondary liver cancer. Together with recurrence, metastatic liver cancer usually happens in advanced stage, when the patient is too weak for another surgery or for chemotherapy. Combination of Cryoablation, interventional therapy and CIK-DC cell immunotherapy is a good systematic treatment for recurrence and metastatic liver cancer.
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