Saturday 6 June 2026 - 12:05
Imam Khomeini: The Man Who Taught a Nation to Fear Only God

On 3 June 1989, Ayatollah Khomeini passed away. Yet more than three decades later, his memory continues to inspire millions. Every year, “Imam’s Week” is observed not only in Tehran, but also in places as diverse as Lagos, Beirut, London, and beyond.

Hawzah News Agency- Perhaps because Imam Khomeini’s message was never confined to a particular country, political moment, or generation. He spoke about timeless questions: fear, justice, faith, power, and the struggle against the ego. His words continue to resonate wherever people seek dignity and truth in a world often dominated by intimidation, materialism, and injustice.

One of Imam Khomeini’s most enduring teachings was simple yet profound: a believer should fear only God.

In a world filled with powerful governments, economic pressures, media campaigns, and political threats, he reminded people not to lose sight of where real power lies:

«”Never let the noise and propaganda of foreigners frighten you. The only fear one should have is of Almighty God. Do not fear other powers, because there is no true power except the power of the Almighty.”»

For him, true independence began in the human heart. A nation that fears God more than foreign powers cannot easily be intimidated. Likewise, an individual who recognizes that all authority ultimately belongs to God can stand firm in the face of pressure and uncertainty.

This spirit shaped the Islamic Revolution of 1979, but its relevance extends far beyond that historical event. It remains a lesson for anyone seeking courage in difficult times.

The remembrance of Imam Khomeini is also a remembrance of sacrifice.

Reflecting on those who gave their lives for what they believed to be right, he said: «”Blessed are those who departed through martyrdom! Blessed are those who, in this caravan of light, gave their lives and souls! Blessed are those who nurtured these precious jewels in their embrace.”»

These words were not a celebration of death. Rather, they were a celebration of commitment, conviction, and selflessness.

He honored not only those who sacrificed their lives but also the families who raised them, supported them, and endured their loss. To him, they were “precious jewels” because they placed principle above comfort and truth above personal gain.

The history of every great movement for justice is written with sacrifice. Imam Khomeini believed that real change is sustained not by slogans, but by people willing to bear hardships for a higher cause.

While many know Imam Khomeini for his political leadership, he constantly emphasized inner reform.

He believed that the roots of corruption are found not merely in institutions or governments, but within the human soul itself: «”Selfishness is what drags a person toward corruption. Every kind of corruption we see in the world springs from selfishness, from the love of status, the love of power, the love of wealth, and similar passions.”»

And he warned: «”It all comes back to the love of the self—this is the greatest idol of all, and the hardest to break. If you leave it unchallenged, it will destroy you step by step until your faith slips from your hands.”»

This diagnosis remains strikingly relevant today. Many leaders begin their journeys with noble intentions but lose their way when power, wealth, or prestige becomes the goal.

For Imam Khomeini, the most dangerous idol is not one carved from stone. It is the ego—the nafs that constantly seeks recognition, control, and superiority over others.

The struggle against that inner idol, he taught, is among the greatest forms of jihad.

Despite his reputation as a revolutionary leader, Imam Khomeini’s writings reveal a deeply spiritual personality.

He often spoke about the inner life of the believer and the importance of maintaining a living connection with God.

He said: «”When you see your heart suddenly humbled, when you see your tears flowing, and when you see that the request from God comes from the depths of your being, these are all signs of the divine response.”»

For him, faith was never merely a collection of laws or rituals. It was a relationship with God that transformed the heart.

A softened heart, compassion for the oppressed, sincere prayer, and humility before God were signs of spiritual vitality. These were victories that no political achievement could replace.

Thirty-six years after his passing, Imam Khomeini’s legacy continues to challenge us with a series of simple but profound questions:

What do you fear?

What do you love?

Who do you serve?

The purpose of remembering Imam Khomeini is not simply to commemorate a historical figure. It is to revisit the principles he championed: leadership without arrogance, resistance without despair, faith without hypocrisy, and service without selfishness.

As we mark 3 June, his message remains as relevant as ever. Whether one is a scholar or a worker, young or old, Muslim or non-Muslim, the challenge is the same: place God at the center of life, resist the tyranny of the ego, and remain committed to truth even when the noise of the world grows loud.

For Imam Khomeini, that was the path to genuine freedom.

And as he repeatedly reminded his followers: «”There is no true power except the power of the Almighty.” This version softens the tone, improves narrative flow, and emphasizes the universal moral and spiritual themes in Imam Khomeini’s teachings while retaining the original quotations and core message.

Source: Islamic Movement

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