Hawzah News Agency- “Much of what is considered academic science today is devoid of spiritual vitality,” he said. “This cold-house science does not shape great thinkers nor build humanity—it merely serves as a tool.”
Ayatollah Javadi Amoli emphasized the need for a meaningful relationship between seminaries and universities, insisting that true unity will not be achieved until the bond between scholars and science is properly defined.
“Science is a triangular reality,” he explained. “It must be connected to its origin—who created this knowledge; to its purpose—why it exists; and to its essence—what it truly is. Real knowledge is divine light granted by God to whom He wills.”
He called for a return to what he described as “living, intuitive, and soul-nourishing science”—a type of knowledge that transcends data and engages with the reality of existence and its connection to God.
Self-Knowledge and Spiritual Freedom
Ayatollah Javadi Amoli stressed that the foundation of human development is self-awareness. “The first step is to know oneself. When a person realizes they are a living reality, originating from somewhere and destined for somewhere, they will not forget themselves.”
He explained that such awareness leads to intuitive knowledge—a deep understanding that protects individuals from moral deviation and prevents them from becoming obstacles in others’ paths.
Drawing on the teachings of Imam Ali (AS), he clarified that freedom, in its truest form, is liberation from lust and base desires. “Just as our body must avoid harmful food despite appetite, so too must our soul avoid harmful pleasures. Desires must be in harmony with our nature and ultimate truth.”
The Virtue of Zeal and Respect for Boundaries
The Ayatollah also addressed the often-misunderstood concept of “zeal” (gheirat), presenting it as a noble spiritual quality rather than a narrow emotional impulse.
“True zeal has three elements,” he explained. “First, it prevents intrusion—one does not violate another’s privacy, whether in family, property, or public rights. Second, it involves guarding one’s own sanctity and dignity. Third, it requires self-awareness—knowing one’s limits to avoid transgression.”
Quoting Imam Ali (AS), he added: “The oppressor is not stopped except by a dignified nation. A humiliated nation accepts oppression.”
Final Advice to Scholars
Concluding his remarks, Ayatollah Javadi Amoli called on university professors to combine humility with action.
“Wherever a knowledgeable person is both sincere and humble, hearts are naturally drawn to them,” he said. “We don’t need grandeur to inspire people. What we need is truthfulness and the illuminating light of real knowledge.”
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