Hawzah News Agency (Beirut, Lebanon) - On the occasion of mid-Sha'ban that marks the auspicious birth anniversary of Imam Zaman (a.j.t.f.- it means "may God hasten his glad advent"), the Takleef celebration ceremony (celebrating the start of religious obligations for individuals) was held in the presence of Lebanese scholar, Ayatollah Afif Nabulsi.

During the ceremony, Ayatollah Nabulsi pointed out, ''Mid-Sha'ban is the Eid of hope, happiness and justice. It tells us that any blocked path can be opened, every darkness will come to light, any injustice will end and justice will surely appear.''

The Shia cleric added, ''Humanity is suffering from pain and injustice and is waiting for Imam Zaman (a.j.t.f.) to help it overcome the hardships, pains and obstacles." He stressed, ''We should do our duty and endeavor to prepare for and hasten the re-appearance of Imam Zaman (a.j.t.f.).''

At the end of the ceremony Ayatollah Nabulsi presented some gifts and awards to the young attendees.