The University of Management and Technology (UMT) held a distinguished launch event for its latest publication, “Time: Scientific, Western and Islamic Concepts,” authored by the late Prof Dr Hasan Sohaib Murad, a notable educational leader and reformer. This work embarks on an intellectual exploration of time, spanning its scientific measurement, Western philosophical interpretations, and its spiritual significance within Islam.
The ceremony featured prominent figures, including President UMT and former Provincial Minister Ibrahim Hasan Murad, Dr Naushaba Hasan Murad, Provost Dr Asghar Zaidi, Prof. Abid Sherwani, DG UMT Ahmad Abdullah, and Lt. Gen. (R) Javed Hasan. A range of distinguished scholars and intellectuals, such as Prof. Ahmad Javed, Dr Khurshid Rizvi, Dr Amjad Saqib, Hafeezullah Khan Niazi, Syed Bilal Qutab, and Orya Maqbool Jan, attended, along with a sizable audience of writers, educators, and students.
During the unveiling, Ibrahim Hasan Murad remarked that Dr. Hasan”s insights teach us that time transcends mere moments; it is a sacred responsibility that measures life, faith, and accountability. He emphasized, “To understand time is to understand one”s purpose of existence. Dr. Hasan regarded time as fundamental to civilization—societies that learn to appreciate time progress.”
Prof Ahmad Javed, who led the session, noted that Dr. Hasan”s examination of time merges empirical evidence with eternal truths. He stated, “This book liberates time from mechanical simplifications and reinstates its spiritual importance. It urges us to reflect on time as a sign of divine order.”
Lt. Gen. (R) Javed Hasan observed that Dr. Hasan”s perspective on time illustrates the potential for scientific exploration and spiritual awareness to coexist, guiding younger generations toward a comprehensive worldview. Dr Khurshid Rizvi, a renowned poet and academic, highlighted that Dr. Hasan successfully connects traditional Islamic thought with modern philosophical dilemmas, describing his writing as clear and persuasive, transforming time into a reflective lens of intellect and revelation.
Syed Bilal Qutab, a spiritual scholar and media figure, remarked that Dr. Hasan viewed time as a moral asset, asserting that each moment spent sincerely enhances the soul”s wealth. He stated that this book acts as “a wake-up call for a generation that values speed over the sanctity of time.”
Orya Maqbool Jan characterized Dr. Hasan as a visionary who conveyed the Qur”anic understanding of time to contemporary audiences, arguing that neither science nor Western philosophy can comprehensively capture the essence of time as the Qur”an does. Dr Amjad Saqib, founder of the Akhuwat Foundation, reflected that Dr. Hasan perceived time as a measure of human actions—an enigmatic veil where life reveals its full significance and responsibility.
Dr Naushaba Hasan Murad, a member of the UMT Board of Governors, expressed gratitude to the attendees, emphasizing that the author embodied the principles he espoused—his disciplined approach to time and balance between worldly success and spiritual purpose served as invaluable lessons.
A special panel discussion followed, where participants described the book as a significant integration of science, philosophy, and divine revelation. They praised its originality, labeling it a unique scholarly contribution inviting readers to rediscover time as a measure of human destiny ordained by the divine. The event concluded with readings of selected excerpts and poetic tributes, honoring Dr. Hasan Sohaib Murad”s lasting legacy—a legacy that inspires future generations to perceive time not merely as a fleeting shadow but as a sacred trust and an enduring responsibility.
