Abdul Basit Alvi
Martyrdom holds a special place in Islam, reflecting the profound commitment to faith and selflessness of those who embrace this path. In the Islamic tradition, a martyr is someone who sacrifices their life for the sake of Allah and the advancement of Islam. Martyrdom, known as “Shahada,” is the act of willingly sacrificing one’s life in the name of Allah and for the greater good of the Muslim community. A martyr is a person who dies as a result of their steadfast adherence to their faith, often in the face of persecution or adversity. Martyrs are considered heroes in Islam, celebrated for their unwavering commitment to God and the principles of Islam. Martyrdom is believed to be one of the noblest ways to die in Islam. The Quran promises martyrs a special place in Paradise, where they will be rewarded with eternal bliss. This belief serves as a powerful motivator for individuals willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their faith. Martyrs are granted forgiveness for their sins and are exempt from the torment of the grave. This concept underscores the purity of intention and devotion that martyrs exhibit. Islamic tradition holds that martyrs will intercede on behalf of their family members, helping them attain forgiveness and a higher status in the Hereafter. In Islamic tradition, martyrdom can take various forms, each reflecting the circumstances under which a person sacrifices their life for Islam: Combat Martyrs die in battle, defending their faith and homeland against aggressors. Their sacrifices are deeply honored in Islam, and they are often considered the highest form of martyrs. Missionary Martyrs die while spreading the message of Islam, often in areas where the religion is not well-established. Their deaths are seen as a testament to their commitment to sharing the faith. Sometimes, people die while engaged in humanitarian or relief efforts, responding to natural disasters, or assisting those in need. Their deaths are considered acts of selflessness and devotion to humanity, earning them the title of martyr.Martyrdom in Islam represents the ultimate act of faith, selflessness, and devotion to Allah. It is a concept deeply rooted in the Islamic tradition, with theological significance and rewards promised in the Hereafter. Pakistan has fought a major war with India in 1965. India attacked Pakistan but the war was resulted into its defeat due to sacrifices and commitment of our civilians and military. Every year on September 6th, Pakistan Defense & Martyrs Day is observed with great reverence and patriotism. This significant day commemorates the heroic efforts and sacrifices made by the Pakistani military during the 1965 India-Pakistan War. Pakistan Defense Day not only honors the brave soldiers who defended the nation but also serves as a reminder of the unwavering commitment of the Pakistani people to safeguard their sovereignty. The origins of Pakistan Defense Day can be traced back to the 1965 India-Pakistan War. The conflict was sparked by territorial disputes and longstanding tensions between the two neighboring countries. India faced a formidable adversary in Pakistan, and it was during this challenging time that the nation’s resilience and determination came to the forefront. Pakistan Defense Day serves as a solemn occasion to honor the sacrifices made by the Pakistani military personnel who fought valiantly during the 1965 war. It pays tribute to those who gave their lives for the nation’s defense. The day promotes a sense of national unity and pride. It reminds Pakistanis of their shared history and the importance of standing together in the face of external threats. Pakistan Defense Day reaffirms the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. It serves as a reminder that the Pakistani people are willing to make sacrifices to defend their homeland. Pakistan Defense Day is observed with various activities and ceremonies. People gather at mosques and offer prayers for the well-being and prosperity of the nation. They also pray for the souls of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Pakistan. Patriotic songs and national anthems are sung with fervor. Various events and seminars are organized to pay tributes to the martyrs of the 1965 war. Their stories of bravery are retold to inspire future generations. Television channels air special programs and documentaries related to the 1965 war and the sacrifices of the military. Pakistan Defense Day is not just a historical event; it is a symbol of the Pakistani people’s resilience and their commitment to defending their homeland. It reminds the nation of the sacrifices made by its brave soldiers and the importance of unity in the face of adversity. As Pakistan continues to face various challenges, the spirit of Defense Day serves as a beacon of hope and determination for a brighter and more secure future. A very graceful ceremony of Defense and Martyrs Day was held this year at J & K monument Muzaffarabad as well. I am honored to be an attendee of this great event and was invited by ISPR to pay tribute to our brave heroes. 10-Corps Commander was the Chief Guest. The ceremony started well in time. Chief Guest laid the wreath for martyrs. Special Prayers were done for higher ranks of Shuhada. Documentaries of our national heroes were shown. Families of martyrs were also invited. Son of Lt General Sarfraz Ali Shaheed was also there who is in also serving in Pak Army in the love of country and with the same spirit as that of his father. The morale of the families of martyrs was quite high and they aimed to give more sacrifices for the country. The patronage and association with the families of martyrs through these events is an appreciable act. Shuhada e Watan Media cell was also very active. Agha Safeer Hussain is doing a great job of keeping contacts and helping the families of martyrs. I saw many people there who appreciated Shuhada e Watan Media Cell’s efforts for the cause. Such initiatives need to be encouraged to strengthen our ties with the families of Shuhada. Readers, whole nation acknowledges the sacrifices of our defenders and martyrs and pay tribute to their selfless dedication for the country.