Hawzah News Agency- In a message issued on the occasion of the opening ceremony of the 33rd International Holy Qur’an Exhibition, Grand Ayatollah Jafar Sobhani underscored the central role of the Qur’an in shaping both individual character and collective destiny, particularly at a time when young people face complex social and ideological challenges.
Ramadan: A Season of Qur’anic Revival
Referring to the holy month of Ramadan as the month of the Qur’an and the “springtime of believing hearts,” the senior cleric described Qur’anic gatherings during this sacred period as invaluable opportunities to restore the scripture to the heart of personal and social life.
“The Qur’an is not merely a book for recitation,” he emphasized. “It is a book of guidance, life, and human felicity.”
Ayatollah Sobhani noted that whenever societies have cultivated a living relationship with the Qur’an and translated its teachings into action, they have experienced dignity, tranquility, and progress. Conversely, distancing from divine guidance has led to moral and social disarray.
Youth: The Strategic Capital of the Islamic Ummah
Highlighting the pivotal role of the younger generation, he described today’s youth as the principal capital of the nation and the broader Islamic Ummah. He stressed that presenting Qur’anic knowledge in a contemporary idiom—through artistic, innovative, and intellectually rigorous methods—can effectively address many of the doubts and concerns facing young people.
“If the teachings of the Qur’an are conveyed in a language suited to the times and through creative means aligned with the cultural needs of society, they can provide convincing answers to the questions of the new generation and guide them along the right path of life,” he stated.
The Grand Ayatollah’s remarks reflect growing emphasis within Islamic scholarly circles on leveraging modern communication tools, cultural production, and educational innovation to deepen youth engagement with religious teachings.
Responding to Cultural and Media Hostility
Ayatollah Sobhani also warned that enemies of Islam are employing extensive media and cultural tools in attempts to weaken religious beliefs, noting that in recent years even acts of desecration against the Holy Qur’an have occurred in certain Western countries.
He stressed that the most effective response to such hostility is not reactionary rhetoric, but rather the expansion of authentic Qur’anic culture and the demonstration of the scripture’s compassionate, rational, and human-building character.
“We must show through our conduct, ethics, and performance that the Qur’an is the book of mercy, justice, human dignity, and progress,” he said.
Following the Prophetic Model
The senior scholar further emphasized the importance of adhering to the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) and the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them), describing them as the true interpreters and living embodiments of the Qur’an.
According to Ayatollah Sobhani, the closer society moves toward ethical conduct, justice-seeking, service to the people, and responsibility, the closer it aligns with the spirit of the Qur’an itself.
Strengthening Faith and Social Cohesion
He expressed hope that Qur’anic exhibitions and related cultural initiatives would reinforce faith, hope, and solidarity among the people, and facilitate a deeper integration of the Qur’an into the daily life of families, schools, universities, and social institutions.
“The bright future of the Islamic Ummah,” he concluded, “depends upon sincere adherence to the Qur’an and practical commitment to its luminous teachings.”
Ayatollah Jafar Sobhani ended his message with a prayer for all those engaged in Qur’anic activities, asking God to grant them success in sincere service and to illuminate hearts ever more with the light of the divine scripture.
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