Essay from Tolqinova Marifatoi Shavkatjon qizi

The Content and Main Directions of Upbringing

Andijan State University
Faculty of History and Social Sciences
Student of Applied Psychology
Tolqinova Marifatoi Shavkatjon qizi
Email: aprmaaprov@gmail.com
Tel:+998930759404

Annotation: This article mainly focuses on the process of upbringing, namely the essence, content, and significance of the upbringing process. The content of the article is upbringing is understood as a system of knowledge, skills, beliefs, personal qualities, character traits, and patterns of behavior that learners are expected to
acquire in accordance with the set goals and objectives. The main purpose of upbringing is to form a well-rounded and harmonious individual. In other words, the primary goal of upbringing is to educate a person who is fully developed in the spiritual, scientific, moral, and social aspects.

The main task of upbringing is to ensure the purposeful development of members of society and to create appropriate conditions for meeting their various needs. When one need is satisfied, another emerges. If these needs are chosen and developed based on proper upbringing, an individual can achieve the necessary successes and levels of personal development. For example, a person who chooses the path of education and knowledge has certain needs that can be explained step by step: the first step is admission to a bachelor’s program, the second step is entering a master’s program,
the third step is enrollment in doctoral studies, followed by further stages of academic and professional growth.


Keywords: educational process, content of education, essence of education, significance of education, well-rounded personality, personal development, goals of education and objectives, knowledge and skills, belief, personal qualities, behavior, social
needs, continuous development, motivation, professional growth.


Аннотация:В данной статье в основном рассматриваются процессы воспитания, а именно содержание, сущность и значение воспитательного процесса. Содержание воспитания понимается как система знаний, умений, убеждений, личностных качеств, характера и поведенческих установок, которые обучающиеся должны усвоить в соответствии с поставленными
целями и задачами.Основная цель воспитания заключается в формировании всесторонне развитой личности. То есть главной целью воспитания является становление личности, гармонично развитой в духовном, научном и коллективном аспектах.

Основной задачей воспитания является создание
условий для целенаправленного развития членов общества, а также для удовлетворения их различных потребностей. Иными словами, при удовлетворении одной потребности возникает следующая, и если данные потребности формируются на основе правильно организованного воспитания, личность способна достигать необходимых успехов и уровней развития.В качестве примера можно привести образовательный путь личности: первая ступень — поступление в бакалавриат, вторая ступень —
обучение в магистратуре, третья ступень — поступление в докторантуру, а также последующие этапы профессионального и научного роста.

Ключевые слова:воспитательный процесс, содержание воспитания, сущность воспитания, значение воспитания, всесторонне развитая личность, развитие личности, цели и задачи, знания и умения, убеждения, личностные качества, поведение, социальные потребности, непрерывное развитие,
мотивация, профессиональный рост.


Introduction


Throughout the historical development of society and pedagogy, various approaches have emerged to explain the concept of upbringing. First of all, a distinction is made between upbringing in its broad and narrow senses. In the broad sense, upbringing refers to the overall influence of society on an individual, in which the process of upbringing is closely interconnected with socialization. In this context, a person’s development occurs through continuous interaction with social norms, values, and cultural traditions. In the narrow sense, upbringing is understood as the purposeful educational activity carried out by educators, which is
commonly referred to as educational or upbringing work.

This approach emphasizes the intentional and organized influence of pedagogical efforts aimed at shaping an individual’s moral, intellectual, and social qualities. This article examines views and reflections on upbringing presented in the works of prominent
scholars such as Jan Amos Comenius, Anton Makarenko, and Abu Nasr al-Farabi, highlighting their contributions to the understanding of the essence and significance of upbringing in human development.

Review of the Literature
In his work “The Virtuous City”, Abu Nasr al-Farabi considers upbringing to be a fundamental factor in the formation of a morally perfect individual. This viewpoint is highly valid, as upbringing can be regarded as the foundation upon which knowledge is built. An individual who has received proper upbringing tends to acquire knowledge more quickly and effectively.

According to al-Farabi, upbringing plays a crucial role in developing moral virtues, intellectual maturity, and abilities that enable a person to contribute positively to society. This idea appears well grounded, since the development of such qualities indeed leads to the formation of individuals who are beneficial to society. However, upbringing should not be limited solely to these aspects; it is also essential to cultivate additional abilities in children, such as communication skills, social interaction, appropriate behavior, and the ability to speak and act suitably in different social contexts.

Jan Amos Comenius viewed upbringing as a natural, continuous, and systematic process. He emphasized that education and upbringing should be equal and compulsory for all individuals. While this perspective is partially acceptable, excessive enforcement and rigid compulsion may lead to fatigue and resistance among children. Treating all individuals identically in the process of upbringing
can diminish the diversity and meaning of human life.

Every individual requires upbringing, but not in the same manner, as people differ in their personalities, needs, challenges, and developmental conditions. Therefore, forced uniformity in
upbringing is inappropriate. Nevertheless, in collective and public environments, adherence to common rules and norms is necessary. Thus, when Comenius’s views are examined from both objective and subjective perspectives, they can be considered largely valid and well-founded.


Research Methodology
In order to determine the effectiveness of the upbringing process, this study employs several research methods widely used in pedagogical science, including historical-pedagogical analysis, descriptive analysis, comparative analysis, and pedagogical experimentation. As the methodological foundation of the research, A. S. Makarenko’s concept of upbringing through the collective was selected.

Makarenko’s practical experience in collective education was
implemented during the 1920s–1930s at the M. Gorky Labor Colony located in Ukraine. This pedagogical experiment primarily involved orphaned children, adolescents prone to delinquent behavior, and individuals belonging to socially vulnerable groups. During the research process, the participants were educated on the basis of collective labor, strict discipline, responsibility, and mutual
respect.

The central idea of the experiment was that the collective, as a leading educational tool, exerts a strong influence on personal development. According to Makarenko’s theory, the harmony between high demands and respect within the upbringing process ensures effective outcomes. This approach contributed to the
formation of such qualities as social responsibility, diligence, discipline, and social usefulness among the participants.


The analysis of the experimental results indicates that approximately 80–85 percent of the participants successfully achieved social adaptation and developed into individuals who found their place in society. At the same time, 15–20 percent of the participants continued to experience various social difficulties. This situation
can be explained by the large number of participants involved in the experiment, the complexity of their psychological conditions, and differences in their ability to accept and respond to educational influence.

Overall, Makarenko’s methodology of upbringing through the collective demonstrated high effectiveness and was scientifically substantiated as one of the most significant pedagogical approaches
for fostering social development and personal maturity. The findings of the study highlight the necessity of strengthening the role and importance of the collective within the upbringing process.

Analysis and Results
During the research process, the effectiveness of the pedagogical approach based on A. S. Makarenko’s concept of upbringing through the collective was analyzed using criteria for assessing personal development. The evaluation focused on key indicators such as changes in the participants’ social adaptation, level of discipline,
sense of responsibility, and skills of cooperation within the collective.

The results of the conducted pedagogical experiment revealed that approximately 80–85 percent of the participants demonstrated positive changes. Within this group, clear improvements were observed in adaptation to collective activities, awareness of
social responsibility, a more positive attitude toward labor, and the development of personal discipline. These findings confirm the practical effectiveness of Makarenko’s theoretical view that regards the collective as a leading instrument of upbringing.

At the same time, the study identified that 15–20 percent of the
participants did not achieve the expected level of outcomes. This result can primarily be explained by the individuals’ psychological characteristics, negative social experiences, and a low level of receptiveness to educational influence.


Additionally, the large number of participants limited the possibility of fully implementing an individualized approach during the research process.


Discussion


The discussion indicates that although the approach of upbringing through the collective demonstrates high effectiveness, applying it uniformly to all learners is not advisable. This method can fully achieve the expected outcomes only when it is integrated with individual and differentiated approaches. In this regard, the
findings are consistent with the ideas proposed by Jan Amos Comenius concerning the continuous and systematic nature of upbringing.

The analysis of the results shows that the model of collective upbringing remains highly relevant within the modern educational system. It serves as an effective means of fostering social activity, self-awareness, and motivation to attain a достойное place in society. At the same time, it has been scientifically substantiated that successful implementation of this approach requires careful consideration of the learners’ individual characteristics and psychological conditions.


Conclusion


The findings of the study indicate that pedagogical activities organized through the collective play a significant role in ensuring personal development within the upbringing process. The concept of collective upbringing developed by A. S. Makarenko remains relevant and applicable in contemporary pedagogical contexts. The results of the experimental research demonstrate that upbringing based on collective activity contributes to the formation of essential qualities such as social adaptation, responsibility, discipline, cooperation, and diligence.

At the same time, the necessity of incorporating elements of an individual approach into the upbringing process has been scientifically substantiated. The limitations identified during the study highlight the need to further improve the upbringing process by harmonizing collective and individual approaches, as well as by
developing methodological recommendations aimed at increasing the effectiveness of educational influence.

The outcomes of this research have practical significance
for general education institutions, educational and upbringing organizations, and the training of pedagogical personnel, contributing to the overall enhancement of the upbringing process.


References

1 Al-Farabi, A. N. The Virtuous City. Tashkent: Fan Publishing House, 1993, pp. 45–52.
2.Comenius, J. A. The Great Didactic (Didactica Magna). Tashkent: O‘qituvchi Publishing House, 1975, pp. 88–96.
3.Makarenko, A. S. The Pedagogical Poem. Tashkent: O‘qituvchi Publishing House, 1988, pp. 134–156.
4.Mavlonova, R., & Vohidova, N. Pedagogy: A Textbook for Higher Education. Tashkent: Fan va Texnologiya Publishing House, 2010, pp. 201–215.
5.Xolmatova, M. Pedagogical Foundations of Personality Development. Tashkent: Nizami Tashkent State Pedagogical University, 2015, pp. 67–79.

Poetry from Soumen Roy

Eternity 

I am the sea meant to flow, filled with glee 

My spirit juggles yet carefree 

No rocks can stop my flow 

I continue to flow forever being a song of eternity. 

I have seen so many seasons passing by

Travelled far yet lonely 

Nothing can bind me 

I can’t turn numb clinging to any sort of accessory.

I am the song that connects every heart 

I am the melodious Tanpura quenching souls sitting under a Bodhi tree 

I choose to lean in purpose flowing beyond boundaries 

I am the song of silence, healing silently.

I flow lonely although never being alone 

I smiled in silence over every cruel stone 

I am prone to mistakes flowing in my human body 

But I always choose to lean and smile with humility

Essay from Jo‘ranazarova Dilobar Dilmurod qizi

Young Central Asian woman with curly dark hair, brown eyes, and a black coat with large buttons and a white undershirt and small earrings.

THE ROLE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF MOTHER TONGUE EDUCATION IN THE MODERNIZATION PROCESS

Student, Termiz State Pedagogical Institute

Abstract:

This article analyzes modern approaches to the modernization of mother tongue education within the general education system. It focuses on the goals and objectives of mother tongue teaching, its role in developing students’ language competence, and the implementation of innovative pedagogical technologies. Existing textbooks and curricula are analyzed, current challenges are identified, and recommendations for addressing them are provided. Results from experimental lessons organized using modern educational technologies confirm the effectiveness of new methods.

Keywords: mother tongue, educational modernization, language competence, curricula, innovative technologies, pedagogical process

Introduction:

In today’s era of globalization and digital development, modernizing the education system is considered a pressing task, as the socio-economic development of society, spiritual and moral growth, and the thinking and worldview of the younger generation are directly linked to the quality of education. From this perspective, modernizing mother tongue education is of particular importance.

The mother tongue serves as a primary tool for expressing national identity, shaping thought, and enhancing spirituality. It is not only a means of communication but also a key factor in transmitting cultural heritage and moral values from generation to generation. Therefore, re-examining the role and significance of the mother tongue within modern education and organizing its teaching through innovative approaches is one of the current pedagogical challenges.

Modernizing mother tongue education helps enhance students’ speech culture, develop critical and creative thinking skills, and educate them as individuals loyal to national and universal values, capable of competing in society. Studying this topic has both theoretical and practical significance.

The Concept of Modernization in Education:

Modernization (from Latin modernus – contemporary, renewed) refers to reorganizing, improving, and developing an existing system based on current requirements. In education, modernization involves updating the learning process using advanced achievements, modern pedagogical technologies, and digital tools.

Key aspects of educational modernization include:

Aligning curricula and standards with contemporary requirements

Strengthening interdisciplinary integration

Implementing competency-based education

Combining traditional teaching methods with interactive approaches

Creating tasks to develop creative and critical thinking

Applying student-centered education

Integrating digital technologies into the learning process (e-textbooks, online platforms, artificial intelligence)

Utilizing multimedia, virtual laboratories, and simulations

Implementing modern management systems in educational institutions

Regularly enhancing teachers’ qualifications

Adapting international experiences to the national education system

Educational modernization aims to develop students comprehensively and cultivate them as well-rounded individuals with competencies suited to the demands of the global information society.

Goals and Objectives of Mother Tongue Education:

Mother tongue education is essential in any society for preserving national values, promoting culture, and enhancing intellectual potential. Its primary goal is to develop students’ language competence: the ability to use the mother tongue correctly, fluently, and effectively, as well as to enhance communication and thinking skills.

General Goals:

Develop linguistic understanding and literacy

Teach phonetic, lexical, and grammatical norms to foster proper speech culture

Enrich students’ thinking and critical reasoning

Instill national identity, moral values, and patriotism

Encourage creativity and active participation in society

Objectives:

Teach literacy and written communication, ensuring correct spelling, style, and writing skills

Develop speech culture, including proper pronunciation, literary norms, and communication etiquette

Promote logical thinking through language study

Develop skills in analyzing, retelling, and creative writing

Implement innovative and communicative approaches using modern technologies

Prepare students to use language effectively in real-life situations

Theoretical Approaches:

Didactic approach: Integrates theoretical knowledge and practical skills

Communicative approach: Focuses on language as a tool for real-life communication

Competency-based approach: Emphasizes applying knowledge, problem-solving, and effective participation

Cultural and moral approach: Instills national values and enhances spirituality

Modernization in National and International Literature:

Recent national and international studies focus on updating content, developing competency-based skills, implementing ICT, and increasing teaching effectiveness. Uzbek researchers emphasize that mother tongue classes should go beyond grammar, fostering independent thinking, creativity, and communication skills. Foreign scholars highlight the importance of competency-based approaches, active learning, and communicative methods.

Competency-Based Approach:

The primary goal is to develop students’ language competence. Students should apply knowledge in real-life situations and communicate effectively. This approach enhances:

Communicative tasks in lessons

Critical and creative thinking

Speech culture for active societal participation

Information literacy, including sourcing and presenting materials

Integration of ICT in Mother Tongue Education:

ICT plays a critical role in modernizing mother tongue lessons. Digital resources such as e-textbooks, multimedia, interactive presentations, online tests, and platforms develop both language knowledge and independent learning skills. Benefits include:

Increasing lesson engagement and interactivity

Supporting individualized learning

Teaching multimodal literacy (text, audio, video, graphics)

Developing information literacy

Aligning with international educational standards

Scientific Foundations:

Modernization relies on various scientific approaches:

Didactic: Based on general laws and principles of teaching

Psychological: Accounts for age, cognition, and motivation

Pedagogical: Combines student-centered learning, educational goals, and communication

Methods:

Literature analysis of national and international sources

Observation and interviews with teachers and students

Experimental lessons using innovative methods and ICT

Surveys and questionnaires to identify problems and suggestions

Current Challenges:

Dominance of traditional approaches, focusing on grammar over communication and creativity

Outdated textbooks and curricula

Limited teacher preparedness for innovation

Insufficient use of ICT

Assessment systems emphasizing theory over creativity and communication

Analysis of Textbooks and Curricula:

Strengths: Coverage of national values, literary norms, and literacy topics

Weaknesses: Limited focus on communicative needs, creativity, and critical thinking; outdated or repetitive topics; misalignment with competency-based assessment

Effectiveness of Competency Development:

Competency assessment considers:

Speech competence

Linguistic competence

Communicative competence

Creative competence

Information competence

Experimental lessons using modern technologies showed increased student engagement, independent learning, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills, with a 25–30% higher activity compared to control groups.

Conclusion:

The modernization of mother tongue education should go beyond grammar to develop students’ linguistic, communicative, and creative competencies. Mother tongue education is vital for intellectual, moral, and social development, requiring a combination of didactic, psychological, and pedagogical approaches. Competency-based methods and modern technologies effectively enhance student engagement, language competence, and creativity. Current challenges include teacher preparedness, assessment limitations, and the need to improve textbooks and curricula. Modernization remains crucial for improving education quality and preparing students as active participants in contemporary society.

References:

Askarova, U. (2024). Enhancing Linguistic Competence Through Mother Tongue Lessons in Primary Classes (2-grade mother tongue textbook). Modern Science and Research, 3(7), 84–87.

Boltayeva, B., & Shakarova, L. (2022). Development of Mother Tongue Based Competences Outside the Classroom. International Journal of Scientific Trends. scientifictrends.org

Islyamova, S. Y. (2025). Competency-Based Approach: Transforming Assessment in Education. Web of Teachers: Inderscience Research, 3(3). Web of Journals

Jurayeva, T. U. (202x). Competency-Based Approach in Higher Education and Prospects for The Development of The Uzbek Language. International Journal of Scientific Trends. scientifictrends.org

Sadikov, E. (2024). Teaching Pragmatic Competencies as a Methodical Problem in Uzbekistan. Excellencia: International Multi-disciplinary Journal of Education, 2(10). multijournals.org

Pulotova, Y., & Olimova, S. U. (202x). Interdisciplinary Integration of the Mother Tongue in the Primary Education System and its Importance. International Journal on Integrated Education, 6(9). journals.researchparks.org

Nisanbaeva, A. K. (2023). The Role of Modern Technologies in Teaching the Mother Tongue. Eurasian Journal of Learning and Academic Teaching, 25, 66–69. Genius Journals

Shomurodova, O. G’. (2022). Levels of Materializing Mother Tongue Content in Schools. Pedagogs Journal, 9(3), 68–70. pedagoglar.uz

Poem by Kalipada Ghosh

LOVE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Oh, what a joy!

What an ecstatic joy!

Christmas is knocking at the door with splendor and delight,

mirth and merriment.

Men, women and children are in Christmas spirit

The church bell ringing

Cakes are to be served…All are in high spirits

Santa Claus visits every house and fills children’s stockings with Christmas presents.

Oh, the good shepherd Jesus Christ!

The light of the world

Redeeming mankind With love and kindness.

Thou art kind and merciful

Thou art the Saviour of mankind

Thou art the messenger of Love and peace

Forgiveness is your soul’s cry.”

Love thy neighbour as thyself.”

Be kind and merciful to everyone.

Thou art the Light and Love

Embodiment of Love and Truth

Faith and Hope to be restored

Love will conquer the world

Love is worship and it’ll bring peace to humanity.

Synchronized Chaos Mid-December 2025: The Stories We Tell Ourselves

Stylized dreamlike painting of a white winged female fairy touching the brown hair of a naked person. Their back is to us and they're sitting at a dark pond on a misty day. Rocks and tree branches are in the water.
Image c/o Dawn Hudson

First, an announcement: published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng would like to host and judge a poetry contest open to all readers of Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

Synchronized Chaos Poetry Contest

We seek short, powerful, imaginative, and strange poetry. While we welcome all forms of free verse and subject matter, we prefer concise work that makes an impact.

Guidelines: Submit up to five poems per person to taoyucheng921129@proton.me. Each poem should not exceed one page (ideally half a page or less). All styles and themes welcome.

Prizes: First Place: $50 Second Place: $10, payable via online transfer. One Honorable Mention. Selected finalists will be published in future issues of Synchronized Chaos

Good luck, if you choose to enter!

Stylized image of a group of red and blonde and brown haired children standing in a forest reading to an elephant and giraffe.
Image c/o Circe Denyer

Now, for this month’s issue: The Stories We Tell Ourselves. We explore communication, relationships, myth, history, imagination – different ways of making meaning from life.

Dildora Abdullayeva considers the study of phrases as a part of human language and how phrases have changed over the years. Toychiyeva Madinaxon points out how young people are changing global language through Internet slang. Habibullayeva Lalyokhon Zarifjon kizi explores cultural and linguistic features of phrases in the Uzbek language. Rashidova Shohshanam speaks to the rapid changes in the Uzbek language and the challenges and opportunities that poses for educators. Noah Berlatsky reflects with humor on how our brains’ memory for language might shrink with modernity.

Dildora Qobilova suggests common student grammatical errors and ways to correct them in the classroom. Yarmamatova Sevinch Elyor qizi suggests ways to enhance young children’s speech fluency. Suyarova Gulsanam explicates finer points of Uzbek grammar for audiences speaking all languages. Abulqosimova Bahora highlights the intricacies of the phonetic system of the Uzbek language. Muqaddas Islomova highlights the role of multimedia digital technologies in helping language learners enhance their speech skills. Shamsiddinova Maftuna Hamidjon qizi gives an overview of academic studies into the structure and functions of different parts of speech. Adashaliyeva Durdona Akramjon qizi highlights the central role of linguistics in reinforcing the values of a socialist society. Rukhshona Kamolova Turayeva highlights the importance of studying the history and role of the English language to understanding effective communication. Sharifov Sirojiddin Shavkatovich underscores the critical importance of basic math literacy to social functioning. Satimboyeva Risolet outlines educational benefits of AI technologies in education.

Kucharov Bakhodir outlines principles of written and spoken professional communication. Dilnoza Bekmurodovna Navruzbekovna urges people to carefully consider what career would be right for them, and for schools to facilitate that deliberation. Aslidinova O’giloy highlights the potential of a digital economy and the need to prepare students for that world. Sarvar Eshpulatov also highlights the importance of digital literacy for success in today’s society. Niyozova Shakhnoza Farhod qizi elucidates the potential of digital technologies in education. Iroda Sobirova offers suggestions for fostering entrepreneurship in Central Asia and elsewhere. Choliyev Nurbek Rözimbek ogli highlights the importance of local banks in trusting in the creditworthiness of local entrepreneurs. Eshmurodova Sevinch Bahrom qizi outlines steps credit card bureaus can take to ensure consumer security. Urinova Robiyabonu discusses the use of psychology in professional management. Qarshiboyeva Mavluda Azizbek qizi analyzes the role of international assessment exams in world education. Abduvaliyeva Jasmina Jahongir qizi outlines some upsides and downsides of economic and cultural globalization.

Satimboyeva Rizolat discusses how to develop a social culture of reading and literary appreciation that goes beyond the classroom. Aziza Xasanova highlights the joy and creativity and history of the Uzbek mother tongue. Qudratova Nozima Bahromovna outlines the innovative narrative storytelling techniques of Uzbek author Tog’ay Murod.

Pink and gray stylized image of crow birds, an old treasure chest and vase, an analog clock and lamp and globe.
Image c/o Circe Denyer

Lakshmi Kant Mukul shares some of a people’s history of India through the lens of one architectural landmark, the Qutub Minar. Alan Catlin renders the historical, somnolent, stuck atmosphere of the American Rust Belt into poetry. Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso delves into the Islamic Turkish Kara-Khanid state, which reached its height in the 700s. Duane Vorhees traces a variety of Jewish mystical influences on Sigmund Freud. Chimezie Ihekuna relates how the modern Nigerian state came together as a result of colonial powers and bears little relation to cultural realities, causing a legacy of trouble. Jacques Fleury reviews Boston Lyric Stage’s production of a mashup of Sherlock Holmes and A Christmas Carol, providing two different lenses through which to interpret Victorian England. Qulliyeva Feruza Qosimova highlights the role of the Uzbek constitution in guiding contemporary society.

Mahbub Alam reflects with nostalgia on his high school days: friends, teachers, the school environment. Mesfakus Salahin revels in the wonder of childhood and memory. Sobirjonova Rayhona expresses gratitude to a dedicated teacher.

Olga Levadnaya speaks to the ‘halo effect’ of memory, where we remember the best parts of what happened to us. Dr. Jernail S. Anand considers his memories to be friends. Taghrid Bou Merhi holds onto the hazy and charming days of childhood and dreams. Mandy Diamantou Pistikou reminds us of the innocence and joyful curiosity of early childhood. Meanwhile, Luis Cuauhtemoc Berriozabal speaks to the feelings, thoughts, and sensations of middle age.

Taro Hokkyo brings to life a moment of deep soul recognition among two different people. Turkan Ergor wonders at the vast diversity of people’s life experiences, given our common humanity. Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol reminds us of the ingredients of love: wisdom, compassion, and humility. Mrinal Kanti Ghosh reflects on a love that captures his soul and disrupts his consciousness.

Mohan Maharana also writes of compassion, speaking of his work as a healer and social worker coming alongside people living with mental illness. Juana Del Carmen Soria urges people to make wise and caring choices. Asmonur Rajabboyeva, in a piece translated into English by Shuxratova Nilufar, draws on a chamomile flower as a symbol for innocence and compassion. Eva Petropoulou Lianou puts out an urgent call for global peace. Dianne Reeves Angel looks beyond the commercialism of Christmas to seek out spiritual gifts of peace and love and hope. Brajesh Kumar Gupta affirms that goodness is so much stronger than evil. Zuhra Jumanazarova highlights the critical role of the Uzbek constitution in the country’s governance and respect for internationally recognized human rights. Eva Petropoulou Lianou laments the violence and selfishness of humanity, in poetry translated into Mandarin by Yongbo Ma. Pat Doyne mocks corruption in the United States’ federal government. Bill Tope argues against gambling from a social justice perspective. Yongbo Ma also translates a poem from Ahmed Farooq Baidoon on the weary quest of all too many people for justice. Brendan Dawson sketches some of society’s outsiders – immigrants and poets – and reflects on how society has become less welcoming.

Stylized image of a man with a red head in a black coat and suit with various white, black, red, and brown and blue posters on a wall behind him.
Image c/o Omar Sahel

Sayani Mukherjee wishes an old lover well with their new love during the holidays, while still acknowledging her sorrow. Abdulhafiz Iduoze speaks to the cycle of life and death in her imagistic poem. Kemal Berk yearns for a lost loved one through verse. Aisha Al-Maharabi evokes the pain of loss and longing in love. Graciela Noemi Villaverde mourns the loss of her husband of many years through poetry. Abigail George renders cautious and loving care for her father with cancer into thoughtful and slow poetry. Farzaneh Dorri pays tribute to a departed human rights lawyer.

Mirta Liliana Ramirez grieves the loss of someone who suffered much and had a difficult life. Sumaiyya Alessmael mourns the passing of her immortal, fanciful beloved. Milana Momcilovic evokes centuries of timeless longing for a lost love. Salimeh Mousavi probes probes a family’s grief to create a complex and layered character sketch and to mourn for parts of individual personhood severed by culture.

Shikdar Mohammed Kibriah speaks to the kind of immortality we find in nature, where one kind of creature lives because of the existence of another. Brian Barbeito relates a late autumn nature walk that left him feeling mystical and thinking of angels and a winter walk with friendly coyotes. Dr. Jernail Singh reminds proud humans of nature’s limits, checks, and balances. Toraqulova Pokiza Sanjarovna highlights the importance of living and working sustainability with nature during climate change. Avazbekova Rayyonakhon outlines some ways young people can work with “nature” close to us, our own bodies, and enhance immunity and stay healthier. Mahmmadjonov Saidjahon Shokirjon ogli and Mirzamansurova Robiya Ahmadjon qizi discuss clinical criteria elucidating when patients need heart valve transplants. Numonova Shohsanam Bahodirjon qizi presents an overview of the causes and effects of genetic mutation. Sejuty Rahman draws on an oyster fashioning an irritating grain of sand into a pearl as part of an extended natural metaphor for love.

Kavi Nielsen poetically expresses a sense of unity and connection with nature and their loved one. Shawn Schooley celebrates the sensual attraction he feels for his lover. Jamal Garougar speaks to the submergence of egos and unity with a broader whole inherent in love.

Petros Kyriakou Veloudas depicts love, grief, and memory feeding into the artistic process. Ana Elisa Medina encourages someone close to her to sing and share his heart’s journey. Kandy Fontaine reflects on how Motorhead frontman Lemmy inspired her artistically and personally.

Pink and purple line drawing of a woman's face with big eyelashes and two other characters, comic book style guy and girl, near her.
Image c/o Victoria Borodinova

Dianne Reeves Angel celebrates the joy of intentional female connection and friendship over many years. Priyanka Neogi reminds women and girls to remember their insight and strength. Amirah al-Wassif’s surreal poetry speaks to womanhood and our relationship with our bodies and minds.

J.J. Campbell shrugs and finds himself in a place of dull resignation, even at the holiday season, and renders his feelings into poems. Alan Hardy speaks to the vulnerability of being alone, whether in the wild or in his own mind, and how he protects himself by letting go of regret. Santiago Burdon depicts some misadventures along the road of guiding an emerging writer towards greater originality.

Richard LeDue captures a feeling common to many creators: seasons of wandering through a morass of scanty inspiration. Mykyta Ryzhykh expresses deep inner emotional pain through vivid imagery. Sara Hunt-Flores evokes the limits of the poetic muse for dealing with extreme emotions. Anna Keiko embarks on a tender journey of self-discovery.

Patrick Sweeney captures moments of revealing character development through one-line monostitch poetry. Christina Chin and Jerome Berglund depict small moments when people are captivated by small pleasures. Zebo Zukhriddinova celebrates the fun and the spontaneous organization of a day students spent folding and flying paper airplanes. Christina Chin depicts brief moments of peace and contemplation at Thanksgiving. Taylor Dibbert highlights the culinary creativity evinced by Thanksgiving meals. Asmonur Rajabboyeva’s short story, translated from Uzbek to English by Shuxratova Nilufar, details an imaginative and curious young girl’s travel to Mars.

Mark Young expresses fascination with arbitrary liminality, how we attempt to classify the world. Duane Vorhees reflects on natural and human moments of energy and transition, such as thunderstorms, from a comfortable distance that lets him think and react with wonder.

We hope this issue brings wonder, new thoughts, and empathy to your life.

Essay from Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso

Young Central Asian woman with a pink collared shirt, earrings, and straight black hair up in a ponytail.

The Kara-Khanid State and Its Development

Student of Denov Institute of Entrepreneurship and Pedagogy

Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso

Annotation

The Kara-Khanid State, which emerged in Central Asia between the 9th and 12th centuries, was one of the earliest Muslim Turkic states and played a significant role in political and cultural life. During their rule, Islam spread widely, mosques and madrasahs were constructed, and trade and crafts flourished. The works of Yusuf Khass Hajib, Qutadghu Bilig, and Mahmud al-Kashgari, Divanu Lughat al-Turk, belong to this period. Although the Kara-Khanids eventually weakened, they strengthened Islamic values in the region and greatly contributed to the cultural development of Turkic peoples.

Keywords: Qutadghu Bilig, Transoxiana, Central Asia, Muslim Turkic state, Islam, culture.

Introduction

Research in this field focuses on examining the role of Turkic states in the history of Central Asia, and the Kara-Khanid Khanate occupies an important place in this process. According to scholarly studies, during the period of the Uyghur Khaganate, the Karluks—composed of three major tribes—were among its subjects. In 756–757 they grew in strength and sought to seize the throne. The internal struggle that began in 789 prevented their success, causing them to separate from the Uyghurs and migrate toward the region of Jetisu, where they later established a new khaganate.

Sources published in Chinese and Uyghur languages describe in detail the historical and ethnic situation in Central Asia before the formation of the Kara-Khanid Khanate. According to these works, the political map of the region underwent repeated changes over several centuries: internal conflicts, wars, and invasions led some states to decline while others flourished.

Main Part

Historical Context and Migrations

Chinese scholars report that after the fall of the Turkic Khaganate, large migration processes took place in Central Asia for nearly two centuries. This intensified after the Uyghur Khaganate, founded in 744 in present-day Mongolia, collapsed in 840. Several factors contributed to the downfall of the Uyghur state: internal power struggles, widespread drought, disease, and harsh winters that devastated livestock. Discontented officials allied with the Kyrgyz, attacked the royal palace, and killed the khagan. Consequently, the Uyghur Khaganate disintegrated, and its population dispersed.

A large group of Uyghurs abandoned their homeland and moved westward, eventually settling in the pastures of Jetisu. When internal unrest broke out within the Uyghur Khaganate, the Karluks were among the first to withdraw from the confederation and migrate to Jetisu—present-day southeastern Kazakhstan. According to Chinese researchers, the Karluks belonged to the “Toqquz Oghuz” (Nine Oghuz) tribal union and constituted a significant portion of the population of the Uyghur state.

By the 9th century, the Karluks had gained considerable political influence and consisted of three principal tribes: Bulak (Muyolo), Sabak (Chjisi), and Mashli (Tashli. Some scholars, including Vey Liangtao, refer to them as one of the “eleven Uyghur” groups.

Islamization and Cultural Development

By the time the Kara-Khanid State was established and began consolidating political authority, most of the population of Transoxiana and surrounding territories had embraced Islam. During this period, Islam reached a high level of development and gradually became a distinct cultural system.

This religious transformation also influenced the Turkic tribes within the Kara-Khanid realm. Due to their close interactions with the settled population of Movarounnahr, the nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples gradually adopted Islam. In Transoxiana and Khwarazm, pastoral tribes living near urban settlements accepted Islam nearly simultaneously with the settled population. Nomadic groups living along the Syr Darya and further north also converted between the 9th and 10th centuries.

According to historical sources, in 960 alone, approximately 200,000 Turkic households embraced Islam.

The rulers of the Kara-Khanid State recognized the significance of Islam and actively supported the development of Islamic culture. Satuk Kara Khan was the first Turkic ruler to convert to Islam, adopting the Muslim name Abd al-Karim Satuk Kara Khan. During his reign, numerous Turkic tribes—Karluk, Chigil, Yaghma, Khalaj, and others—converted to Islam. This process played a major role in unifying the state and shaping its political stability.

Conclusion

The Kara-Khanid State successfully united various Turkic tribes and established a strong central authority. They strengthened trade routes, enhanced economic stability, and paid great attention to cultural and scholarly development. Madrasahs, mosques, and cultural centers were built in cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara.

The Kara-Khanids actively promoted Islam, ensuring both religious and political unity within their territories. Therefore, this state represents an important stage in the consolidation of governance and the cultural advancement of Central Asia.

References

1. Irpan To‘xtaev. Kara-Khanid Silver Coins Minted in the First Quarter of the 11th Century. Tashkent, 2015.

2. Vey Liangtao. Kalaxan Wangchao Shigao, p. 72.

3. Ibid., pp. 66–73.

4. Khojaev K.A. On the Terms “Jyushing Ugu”, “Jyushing Tele” and “Jyushing Xueyhe” in Chinese Sources. Oriental Studies, Tashkent, 2004, pp. 223–228.

5. Khojaev A. Data from Ancient Chinese Sources on the Ethnic History of Central Asia. Tashkent, 2017, pp. 239–252, 356.

6. Wikipedia.

7. Ablat Khodjaev, Dilrabo Turdieva. The History of the Kara-Khanid Khanate in the Research of Scholars of the People’s Republic of China. Tashkent, 2021.

Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso was born on May 22, 2006, in Denov district, Surxondaryo region. She is currently a second-year student at the Faculty of History, Denov Institute of Entrepreneurship and Pedagogy.

Poetry from Mark Young

Time / still moves / while standing still

Is political time, is archipelago
time. “Why should we have
half the islands on one time &
the other half on another when
they’re only fifteen minutes apart?”
So some adjusted the local IDL
with an eastern bulge while others
moved it westwards. On Taveuni

Island, in the Fiji archipelago, one
can stand across the actual Prime
Meridian, have one foot in today, the
other in yesterday. Then, without
moving an inch, have one foot in to-
morrow while still balancing in today.

wingding

Pigeons & buses
jostle for space

in the eye of
the hurricane.

alt-Zen

Seeking peace
from a piece
of pizza.


Intelligent Design

He considered poems to be
a form of get well cards, was
always upset that they never
came in addressed envelopes.

A note

Being an expat-
riate doesn’t

mean being an
ex-patriot. I

still cling to my
country of origin.

Fender Bender

A within-subjects study is investi-
gating whether using multidose
vials or old-school flash cards is

more efficacious. Both are some-
what pointless, & may be hazardous.
Even dead batteries can still produce

some electricity. It’s why, to overcome
its innate low speeds, a Pokémon of
Sassy nature welcomes Bitter berries.