• Statements
• 28 Dhul-Hijjah 1438

General recommendations for preachers and Mubaligheen and those who revive the Hussaini traditions in the Holy month of Muharram for year 1439 A. H

In the Name of Allah the Compassionate Most Merciful

The Muslim world observes the anniversary of Ashura. The epic of chivalrous ebuttal embodied in the character of the master of martyrs and the father of freedom Imam Al-Hussain (may Allah’s blessings be upon him), who epitomised the lofty values of sacrifice and redemption, the rejection of injustice and tyranny and the beacon of dignity and honour. On the advent of this timeless anniversary we recall several issues of utmost importance to the revival of the tradition of the Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) whose love and authority Allah has made compulsory upon us.

Firstly: The message of the Hussaini Mimbar (pulpit) is portrayed in the careful public discourse that benefits from the Holy month of Muharram season to explain religious facts and the principles of the belief of Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) based on facts and logic. We would like to draw the attention of the honourable speakers and scholars as well as those in charge of Hussaini events – may Allah increase their stature- that a growing segment of the younger generation of Muslims, male and female, are living in a tumultuous environment of faithless ideas and dubious currents concerning the origins and requirements of religion and faith. This imposes a responsibility on the Mimbar arena to carefully address and discuss these ideas and present plausible explanations supported by facts. Also to use language and methods relevant to the emerging generation, in line with today’s culture, and steer away from such discourse that is iappropriate these days to most listeners. It is important for each speaker to diversify the contents of their discourse, according to their proficiency and knowledge of history - containing lessons for the present and the future or a pious sermon from the heart to reach the heart of the listener or teaching jurisprudence and mundane and important educational matters to build a good family and similar sermons.

Secondly: One of the greatest rites influencing the souls of the young Hussaini followers is the mourning processions (A’za). So there a great Shar’i responsibility upon our brothers and sons the eulogists and poets – may Allah enhance their success. This responsibility is based on preserving the poetry recited for the stature of the pure and immaculate Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) without portraying it to be unworthy of the greatness of these lofty statures or undermine their sanctity. Also to discard the tunes used in musical and vanity gatherings and refrain from presenting anything that harms the noble reputation of the faith of Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) or be taken as a pretext and means to slander and cause harm to the followers of the faith. Rather, the poetry should include a part of the teachings of the guided Imams (a.s.). It has been said in the Hadith that: “If people knew the pros of our words they would follow us.” This is in addition to focusing on the trials and tribulations of the holy prophet’s household and their morals and achievements.

Thirdly: It is hoped and requested from Muslims in general and the masses in the Husseini processions to revive this season with enthusiasm by their presence and active interaction with these great days. To highlight the imposed affection for the Alul-Bat (a.s.) by manifestations of loyalty and consolation, customary among the mourners for the suffering of the master of martyrs (a.s.) since ancient times - without portrayals of actions and practices that have no origin in the true Shari’a and unfitting to the commemoration of this honourable event – thus alienating a segment of Muslims from these Majalis and distancing them from being enlightened with the principles of Imam Hussain (a.s.).

We ask Allah Almighty to grant everyone success in reviving the traditions of Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) in the best way possible and to grant us all the good fortune to follow their guidance and footsteps and persevere in serving them and being close to them and grant us their intercession.

May Allah increase our rewards and yours on the tragedy of Abi Abdillah Al-Hussain (a.s.) and his household.

Wassalamu alaikum warahamtullahi wabarakatoh

Imam Ali (a.s.) Foundation - London
28 Dhul-Hijjah 1438 A. H / 20 Sept 2017