A comparative study of Pakhtun social activities With Islamic principles

Abstract

This research examines Pashtun social activities in comparison with the guiding principles of Islam. Pashtun society, deeply rooted in the code of (پختونوالی), emphasizes values such as hospitality, honor, revenge, (جرگہ)-based justice, and tribal solidarity. While these practices form an essential part of Pashtun cultural identity, they often overlap, diverge, or conflict with Islamic teachings. For instance, the principles of honor and modesty in Pashtun culture resonate with Islamic concepts of chastity, yet practices like excessive retaliation may contradict Islam’s emphasis on forgiveness and reconciliation. Similarly, the (جرگہ) system shows parallels with the Islamic concept of (شوریٰ) (consultation), though it sometimes lacks the jurisprudential framework of Islamic law. By analyzing aspects such as hospitality, justice, gender roles, and social customs like marriage and mourning, this study highlights both the harmony and the tension between cultural norms and religious injunctions. The purpose of this comparative study is to provide a deeper understanding of how Pashtun traditions can be aligned with Islamic principles, thereby fostering a balanced approach that preserves cultural identity while ensuring conformity to religious guidance.