The October issue of IV features an impactful article, “The Unseen Pain of Childless Women” by Tahsin Ahmed, which delves into the hardships faced by married women in Indian society regarding childlessness. The author highlights the societal tendency to place the blame solely on women for not bearing children, particularly male heirs who are expected to support their parents in old age.
Mr. Ahmed poignantly discusses the stigma that childless women endure, often facing taunts and negative comments that lead to social challenges. He presents compelling statistics revealing that infertility cases are rising globally, with a significant number of cases attributed to male factors.
Towards the end of the article, he addresses the emerging trend of couples choosing to remain childfree. He distinguishes between being childless “by chance” and choosing to be “by choice.” While he effectively covers the issue, I would like to add several factors that may contribute to infertility in both men and women:
1. Late marriages
2. Stressful lifestyles
3. Environmental pollution
4. Genetically modified foods
5. Contaminated water supplies
6. Sedentary lifestyles
7. Tight clothing
8. Processed takeaway foods
9. Health issues and medications
10. Use of performance-enhancing drugs
Overall, Tahsin Ahmed’s article provides a comprehensive look at a critical societal issue, shedding light on the various dimensions of childlessness.
Qazi Minhaj Azher,
USA .
I appreciate the focus on the struggles faced by women without children and the profound impact this has on their lives. It is a critical issue that deserves compassion and understanding from the community. We must work to provide counseling, social support, and skills training to alleviate their burdens. Overcoming the stigma surrounding childless women is essential.
Javeed Mirza
USA .
This article is particularly relevant today, as many people discuss personal matters without considering their potential impact on others. It should serve as a wake-up call for those who may unintentionally hurt others with their words.
Prof. Neelufer Sameena,
USA .
In summary, Mr. Ahmed’s article is a well-rounded exploration of the emotional and societal challenges faced by childless women, and I appreciate his efforts to shed light on this important issue. Recognizing the multifaceted causes of infertility can help foster a more compassionate understanding of this complex topic.
Qazi Minhaj Azher
USA .
The author has accurately highlighted the challenges faced by childless couples, including the ridicule and pain inflicted by family and friends. Articles like this, grounded in research and positivity, can help soothe the suffering of countless women. I urge women’s organizations, family counselors, and healthcare professionals to use social media for awareness campaigns that can shift societal attitudes and reduce stigma, making the community more inclusive.
A.G. Kaiser,
Bengaluru.
Mob: 9448087600 .
The author poignantly addresses the silent suffering of childless women. The societal stigma can feel like mental torture, with constant pressure from questions like, “Any good news?” This can lead to isolation, depression, and social withdrawal. As noted, the blame often unfairly falls on women, even when men may be the cause.
Naveed Ahmed, Bengaluru
Mob: 9448855614 .
Clarifying Riba: A Query on Islamic Banking
Assalamo Alaykum,
I recently read Mr. M.A. Siraj’s article, “Understanding Riba in the Context of the Prophet’s Era and Modern Economics.” The piece is indeed an eye-opener for those who struggle to grasp the true meaning and implications of Riba. However, the rise of Islamic Banking raises a critical question.
Millions of Muslim bank employees worldwide believe that bank interest is not forbidden (Haraam) in Islam, citing a fatwa from Grand Mufti of Egypt, Shaykh-ul-Azhar Dr. Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi, dated 27 Ramadan 1423 AH (2 December 2002 AD). According to this interpretation, interest, a significant source of income for banks, is not considered Riba and, thus, is permissible (Halaal). This belief leads them to conclude that they are not consuming forbidden (Haraam) income, allowing them to provide for their families without transgressing Islamic law.
If this belief is valid, then it follows that the existing conventional banking system is not un-Islamic; thus, banks are not generating forbidden (Haraam) income. Consequently, their operations and income are perceived as 100% permissible (Halaal) in Islam.
Given this scenario, a million-dollar question arises: Why have various Shariah Boards been established, and why are “Islamic” banking divisions being developed by conventional banks? These divisions are separated from traditional banking and staffed by “qualified” religious scholars (muftis) who receive substantial remuneration to certify that their products are entirely permissible (Halaal). They encourage the public to choose Islamic banking over conventional banking, which is labeled un-Islamic and potentially generating forbidden (Haraam) income.
This involvement of Shariah Boards and the role of well-compensated clerics suggest that the existing conventional banking system may indeed be un-Islamic, generating forbidden income. Therefore, many bank employees might inadvertently be earning Haraam income, affecting their ability to provide for their families ethically.
What is the truth here? Which of these statements are accurate, and which are misleading? Who can clarify the situation Shariah Boards, muftis, or bank officials?
I look forward to an enlightening response.
Qasim Abbas,
Toronto, Canada .
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