زرتشت ازم کے شعائر، رسوم اور روایات: اسلامی تناظر میں اجمالی جائزہ

Zoroastrianism is an ancient Iranian religion founded by an Iranian Prophet and scholar Zoroaster. It is claimed by some foremost scholars that this is the most ancient religion of the world which influenced the other major religions of the world like, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The main source to know the Zoroastrianism is Avesta, Denkart and Bundahishn (sacred books) from which we know the terminologies and traditions of this religion. Main two spirits are Ahura mazda (god of pleasure and goodness) and Ahriman (god of evil) and seven more main spirits which are called as angels are Amesha spentas which show the actual spirit and direction of this ancient religion. Some of the concepts and traditions are same which exists in Islam but with different names and features, like prayers and matters after death, heaven and hell. In this article, main focus is on tradition and terminologies of this ancient religion to know its actual spirit to get the basic information and main themes for initial reader of this religion from Islamic theological pers-pective. No doubt, Zoroastrianism is one the amended religions exist on earth yet because of the similarity of various rituals with Islam. However, Zoroastrianism is being considered reve-aled religion and Zoroaster as true prophet of Allah.

اردو ناول میں مذہبی عناصر: تجزیاتی مطالعہ

The present research work sets out to analyze representation of different religions in Urdu novel. Religion is pivot of life. So important is it in human life that its value cannot be overstated. In one way or other it reflects in all spheres of human life and controls all activities: may it be rituals of birth or death; wedding ceremonies or funerals. Literature, on the other hand is reflection of life. It takes stuff from society and portrays the way life actually goes on there. Realizing the important roles of religion and literature this research project attempts to analyse the way different religions are presented in Urdu novels (an important part of Urdu literature. This research work is divided into six chapters. The first chapter carries a wholesome discussion on major religions including: Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Christianity, and Islam. It covers detailed introduction of these religions, their basic belief system, rituals, religious personalities, and code of life. Second chapter mainly covers topics of modernity, equality, accountability, and ethics with respect to different religions. It also brings under discussion areas of goodness and badness; good, and evil; life and death as presented in Urdu novel. In third chapter spirituality and religions along with ways and value of preaching common people in the light of teachings of different religions as portrayed in Urdu novel is discussed. In fourth chapter extremism, sectarianism, intolerance etc. in religious context and concept of punishment and reward in different religions as presented in Urdu novel is discussed. Fifth chapter role of religious leaders and preachers, highlighting their positive and negative aspects has been analysed in relation to different religions. Finally, light has also been shed on status of women in different religions as represented in Urdu novels. It also covers exploitation of women in the name of their respective religions. Chapter six, "Conclusion" which is final chapter of this research work recapitulates the whole discussion. It not only comprehensively summarizes the previous chapters but also carries suggestions for future researchers in this field.