Hawzah News Agency –With respect to the global mission of Imam Reza holy shrine in promoting teachings of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) and the eighth Imam (AS), Islamic Research Foundation was launched to do required research and study needed for this world mission, Gharamaleki stated.

He added: “Pilgrimage has got a very great position in Muslims’ life all around the world. It means that pilgrimage is effective and has existed in Muslims’ lives as a fundamental basis regardless of their nationality, language, and ethnicity. Pilgrimage is the contact line between Muslims and sacred places including Imam Reza holy shrine”.

The official went on to say: “With regard to the special position of pilgrimage and its impactful results on the issues related to pilgrims, Imam Reza holy shrine has got a very great capacity for civilization making and promotion of rich Islamic culture. This happens when we employ methodical, systematic and efficient research”.

According to him, “Comparative Study of Pilgrimage in Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Zoroastrianism” is a research work that will be released in the near future. The work analyzes the concept of pilgrimage from the viewpoint of different religions.

The Islamic Research Foundation was established 37 years ago by the then chief custodian Ayatollah Tabasi. The center is now known as a scientific and research hub in Iran.

Astan Quds Razavi is the body in charge of Imam Reza holy shrine in Mashhad, northeast Iran.