Hawzah News Agency- Addressing scholars and worshippers at Jafariya Mosque in Ranchi, Hojatoleslam Abdul Majid Hakimollahi said correct recognition of religious identity is essential in the modern world, adding that the Shiite school is rooted in rationality, justice, and moral refinement.
Rationality and Justice in Shiite Teachings
Highlighting the central place of reason in the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them), Hakimollahi stressed that the Shiite tradition encourages contemplation and intellectual inquiry.
“Accepting religion through thought and reflection is one of the distinguishing features of the school of Ahlul Bayt,” he said. “Seeking justice is also a defining principle of Shiite belief.”
He cited the life of Imam Ali (PBUH) as a model of integrity and moral courage, noting that the Commander of the Faithful never compromised with injustice for personal or political gain. Following the Ahlul Bayt, he said, is not merely an emotional attachment to history but a path to spiritual knowledge, piety, and sound guidance.
Ashura’s Enduring Call to Resist Oppression
Referring to the timeless message of Ashura, Hakimollahi noted that the Karbala uprising teaches believers to stand firm against tyranny and deviation.
“Our society today needs the life-giving lessons of Ashura more than ever,” he said. “This school nurtures humanity and moral awakening.”
The Three Pillars of Shiite Identity
Hojatoleslam Hakimollahi identified three core components that shape a true Shiite identity:
1. Strong Belief:
A firm conviction in God, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family), the Ahlul Bayt, the Day of Judgment, and divine justice, he said, forms the foundation of Shiite identity. If this belief weakens, all other dimensions of identity will suffer.
2. Moral Virtues:
Honesty, trustworthiness, purity, and service to others are essential traits of a true follower of the Ahlul Bayt (PBUT). “No society can survive without morality,” he stressed, calling ethical conduct the greatest cultural asset of the Shiite community.
3. Social and Religious Connectivity:
Regular presence in mosques, hussainiyahs, and religious centers, along with active participation in rituals and efforts to educate the younger generation, are vital. “A society disconnected from its religious institutions will sooner or later face cultural disintegration,” he warned.
Challenges of the Modern Era
Hojatoleslam Hakimollahi cautioned against growing efforts to distance the youth from religious values, saying that the erosion of identity leads to spiritual emptiness and societal vulnerability. He called for greater vigilance and renewed commitment to cultural and religious principles.
He also pointed to the rich intellectual and spiritual heritage of Shiism, noting that Ashura teaches resistance to injustice, Ghadir reinforces the concept of divinely guided leadership, and the legacy of Imam Jafar Sadiq (PBUH) lays the foundations of scientific inquiry and sound reasoning within Islamic civilization.
Responsibilities of the Shia Community in India
The cleric outlined several key responsibilities for India’s Shia community, including strengthening religious education for children, maintaining internal unity, expanding educational programs in religious centers, holding major commemorations such as Ashura and Ghadir, and encouraging greater participation in scientific and academic fields.
“We must raise a generation that embodies knowledge, ethics, commitment, and service to society,” he said.
Preserving Identity as Preserving Islam
Concluding his address, Hojatoleslam Hakimollahi stressed that protecting Shiite identity is inseparable from preserving the essence of Islam.
“If this identity is safeguarded with awareness, strength, and cohesion,” he said, “the Shia community in India will undoubtedly enjoy a bright and dignified future.”
Your Comment