BITS ‘N’ PIECES

Narrated by ‘Abdullah bin Abi Qatada (R.A)

My father said, “The Prophet (S.A.W) in Zuhr prayers used to recite Al-Fatiha along with two other suras in the first two rakat: a long one in the first rak’a and a shorter (sura) in the second, and at times the verses were audible. In the ‘Asr prayer the Prophet used to recite Al-Fatiha and two more suras in the first two rakat and used to prolong the first rak’a. And he used to prolong the first rak’a of the fajr prayer and shorten the second.

Sahih Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 12, Number 726

DID YOU KNOW?

More than 125,000 animals are killed each year by trophy hunters in South Africa.

Trophy hunters are individuals who hunt wild animals for sport, to collect parts of the animal, such as the head, antlers, or skin, as trophies to display. South Africa is a prominent destination for trophy hunters due to its well-established wildlife reserves. The country aids trophy hunters in several ways to boost its economy. South Africa has a well-regulated hunting industry with laws and regulations designed to ensure sustainable hunting practices. Permits and licenses are required for hunting, and specific quotas are set to control the number of animals that can be hunted, thus helping to manage wildlife populations.

Many private game reserves and hunting ranches in South Africa cater specifically to trophy hunters; these reserves breed animals for hunting, ensuring a steady supply and reducing pressure on wild populations. The most coveted animals to kill for trophies are the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffalos—and more than 125,000 animals are killed each year for this ‘sport’.

Trophy hunting generates significant revenue for South Africa, contributing to conservation funding and local economies. The fees paid by hunters for permits, accommodations, and services support conservation initiatives and community development projects. This economic benefit provides a financial motive for local communities to protect wildlife and their habitats.

Some argue that trophy hunting plays a role in conservation by funding anti-poaching efforts and habitat restoration projects. The revenue from hunting can be used to support wildlife management programs and protect endangered species from illegal poaching.

However, the practice remains highly controversial. Critics argue that trophy hunting can lead to the depletion of certain species, particularly when hunting quotas are not strictly enforced or when corruption undermines regulatory frameworks. Additionally, ethical concerns about the morality of killing animals for sport persist, with many advocating for alternative conservation methods that do not involve hunting.

The South African government is gearing up to ban the cruel business of captive lion breeding. Lindsay Oliver, World Animal Protection US’s Executive Director, applauded the decision and said the United States “should follow their example and ban the importation of wild animals, including those used as ‘trophies.’”