Hawzah News Agency- In an interview with the Hawzah News in Bushehr, Zeynab Borazjani pointed to the tragic martyrdom of Imam Reza (PBUH), stating: "This revered Imam, the eighth Imam of the Twelver Shia, was martyred at the age of 55 at the end of Safar month in the year 203 AH at the hands of the accursed Ma'mun al-Abbasi only for his popularity and acceptance among the people."
The professor at women’s seminary explained that Ma'mun sought to undermine the stature of Imam Reza (PBUH) by appointing him as his crown prince (Waliahd), but the people's admiration and respect for the Imam continued to grow day by day.
She noted, “Ma'mun saw his rule threatened by the Imam’s popularity, which ultimately led him to order the poisoning and murder of this infallible figure”
referring to the annual mourning ceremonies for Imam Reza (PBUH), Borazjani noted, “For about 1,200 years, Shia Muslims around the world have been traveling to his holy shrine during the days marking Imam Reza's martyrdom anniversary. They express their love and devotion to His Holiness, performing chest-beating with sorrowful hearts and tearful eyes.”
This professor stressed the boundless love of people from across the globe for this great Imam (PBUH), adding: "Whether they are Iranian or not, Muslim or not, Shia or not, all come with sorrowful hearts to Imam Reza’s (PBUH) shrine, where they mourn and ask for their prayers to be answered in the presence of his radiant tomb."
She further stated, "Out of love for Imam Reza (PBUH), people march on foot from various cities in organized mourning groups to his blessed shrine, while others eagerly set up service stations to cater to the pilgrims and mourners of Imam Reza (PBUH)."
Borazjani concluded by saying, "What is certain is that despite all the propaganda against Shia Islam, the enemies have been unable to diminish the love and devotion that Iranians and people worldwide have for the Ahl al-Bayt (PBUH). God willing, this very love and devotion will be a key factor in the downfall of Israel and its bloodthirsty allies, which will lead to the reappearance of the savior of humanity, Imam Mahdi (PBUH)."