The Supreme Leader’s View of Unity Between the Shia and the Sunni
21/08/2008
Today, one of the main goals of the arrogant powers and the US is to foment discord. And the best way to do so is to foment discord among Shia and Sunni Muslims. You can see what the mercenaries of the arrogant powers say today in regard to the issue of Iraq and what propaganda they spread. They think they can sow the seeds of discord this way. It has been many years that the arrogant powers and the Western expansionist powers have been following such policies. We should stay vigilant against these policies. We should be vigilant at all times and on all fronts. The conflict between the Shia and the Sunni is what the US truly desires.
Muslim nations should stay vigilant and should not underestimate the enemy, its plots, or even its small moves. They should stay vigilant and awake. Today, Islamic nations and governments must get united and develop unanimity among themselves. I deem it necessary to warn our own nation, the Iraqi and Pakistani nations, and other Muslim nations that they need to act against religious conflicts and the conflict between the Shia and the Sunni. Today, I notice some groups who are - through an organized plot - trying to cause splits among Muslims in the name of Shia and Sunni. The massacres that take place, the explosions which happen in mosques and hussayniyyahs and during prayers are undoubtedly organized by the evil Zionists and arrogant powers. Such incidents are not organized by Muslims. We have information which indicates that the Zionists and the mercenaries of the enemies of Islam are either directly or indirectly involved in all the incidents which happen in different parts of the Muslim world - in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and other countries.
Of course, I do not mean to say that Shias should convert to Sunni Islam or Sunnis should convert to Shia Islam. I do not intend to say that all religions should be amalgamated into one religion. Rather, what I intend to say is that Shias and Sunnis should not make scientific efforts only to lend credence to their own beliefs. Making scientific efforts is a very good thing. There is nothing wrong with getting involved in such efforts. There are some people who reject all denominations in order to create unity among Muslims. However, this is not an appropriate solution. The solution is to prove the truth of the existing denominations. The followers of different denominations must continue doing their duties, and they must maintain friendly relations with the followers of other denominations. They ought to write scientific books within scientific settings, not non-scientific ones.
We do not oppose those who can logically prove their arguments. But those who try to foment schism through their words, actions, and plots serve the enemies' interests. Both Sunnis and Shias should stay vigilant against such efforts. Everyone follows his own denomination and shows respect for his beliefs and moral values. This is a right that everyone deserves. However, respect for one's beliefs does not mean that one could offend against others' moral values. We all believe in Islam, the Holy Prophet (s.w.a.), and Kaaba. We all say prayers, go to Hajj, and believe in jihad and Sharia. The matters over which we disagree are much less than those we agree upon. The enemies of Islam are trying to foment schism among Shia and Sunni Muslims not only in Iran, but also in all parts of the Islamic world.
Let me add a point here. You should not consider the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) as a cause for disagreement among Sunni and Shia Muslims - or among the different Islamic sects. The Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) is the cause of unity and not discord among Muslims. Our brothers and sisters from across the country should believe in the fact that the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) is the axis of unity among all Muslims. All Muslims are respectful towards him - whether they are Sunnis or Shias. There was a small group by the name of "Navasib" who were the enemies of the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.). Throughout the history of Islam - both during the era of the Umayyad dynasty and the Abbasid dynasty - there were groups of people who opposed Amir al-Mu'minin (a.s.). But the Majority of those who believe in Islam - both Shia and Sunni Muslims - praise the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.). If you take a look, you will see that the Sunni Imams who were experts in Islamic jurisprudence praised the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) in their poems. Some of the famous poems about Amir al-Mu'minin (a.s.) have been composed by Al-Shafi'i. Al-Shafi'i has praised Imam Ali (a.s.) in his poems. Of course, this is not limited to Imam Ali (a.s.) only. Sunni Imams are respectful towards all the Imams. The high position of these prominent figures is known to us - Shia Muslims.
Unfortunately, there are some people in the Muslim world who are ready to commit any crimes in order to form bonds with the US and other arrogant powers and foment schism among Shia and Sunni Muslims. Today, I can see some people in our neighboring countries who have planned to foment schism among Sunni and Shia Muslims, and followers of other religions, in order to pursue their own interests. Their efforts are aimed at pursuing their illegitimate interests in Muslim countries. We should stay vigilant against such efforts.
Those who provoke Sunni Muslims against the Shia and Shia Muslims against the Sunnis support neither the Shia nor the Sunni. They are opposed to Islam. "Compassionate among themselves" [the Holy Quran 48: 29]. This means that Muslims should act kindly and mercifully towards one another. On the one hand, they advocate "Ghulat" and "Navasib" and say that Shias and Sunnis are enemies - unfortunately some religious fanatics believe such claims - and on the other hand, they tempt Shia Muslims to offend against the moral values and beliefs of the Sunnis. The enemies' plots are aimed at fomenting schism among Sunni and Shia Muslims. The enemies might follow plots which you are unaware of. Therefore, you should be aware of the enemies' plots and identify your enemies at all times. "And certainly thou canst recognize them by the tone of (their) speech." [The Holy Quran 47: 30]. You could even identify your enemies through their words.
We take pride in the fact that our people avoid ethnic quarrels and conflicts where there are ethnic or religious differences in the country, and where there is a possibility for such ethnic conflicts. This is what the enemies do not like. The conflict between Sunni and Shia Muslims is very important to the enemies of Islam. Differences and conflicts among the Islamic Ummah would undermine the spirituality, purity, power, grandeur, and national unity of Muslims, and as it is cited in the Holy Quran: "And [lest] your power depart." [The Holy Quran 8: 46].
One factor that could play a central role in this regard is the holy being of the Prophet (s.w.a.). Muslims and Islamic intellectuals should pay attention to and rely on the character and teachings of the Holy Prophet (s.w.a.) as a focal point.The issue of unity among Muslims should be taken seriously by all Islamic sects - Shias, Sunnis, and followers of different Shia and Sunni sects. Today, Muslims should take the issue of Islamic unity seriously. The meaning of Islamic unity is evident. Unity is a vital need for all Muslims. It is not a trivial matter or a slogan only. All Islamic communities should get united and act as a unified front. Of course, unity is a complex issue. Creating unity is a complex process as well. Unity among Islamic communities means that Muslims should be tolerant of religious differences, the differences in their traditions and ways of life, and the differences in fiqh. Unity among Islamic nations signifies that Muslim nations should act as a unified front in regard to issues related to the Muslim world and assist one another. It also means that Muslim nations should not use their resources against one another.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=868
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
The Supreme Leader's View of Religion
The Supreme Leader's View of Religion
13/07/2008
In the Name of the Most Sublime
Religion is first and foremost an outlook and a type of knowledge - knowledge about the world, man, and one's path, route, and goal. All these pieces of knowledge collectively form the basis of religion. Religion considers man to be the hub of the universe. It regards man as the unrivalled being that can make intellectual efforts and shed light on undiscovered entities.
In order for religion to fulfill its responsibility, there ought to be a world in which the responsibility could be carried out. Religion has come to shape, redirect, and guide the efforts of man in this great world that is filled with various complexities. Considered in this way, religion and the world are inseparable. There is no other place except the world for religion to achieve the purposes for which it was intended. Without the creative and constructive role of religion, the world will be devoid of spirituality, affection, and life. Without religion, the world where man lives will turn into a jungle and will be governed by the law of the jungle. In this vast world, man must feel that he has peace and security so that he can tread the path of spiritual transcendence and development.
In this sense, separating religion from the world means that we have made life, politics, and economy devoid of spirituality. Separating the two entails the destruction of justice and spirituality. The world provides man with the opportunity to live, with different worldly blessings, with many beautiful attractions, and with pleasant incidents as well as sad and bitter misfortunes. Viewed in this way, the world provides man with the means to grow and evolve. From a religious point of view, these are the means that enable man to tread the path of transcendence and development and demonstrate the talents that God has bestowed on him. The world is not separable from religion in this sense. However, the world has another facet to it as well. In Islamic texts, 'world' has been used to mean sensuality, selfishness, carnal desires, and involving others in carnal desires. Based on our traditions, the world - in this sense - is not compatible with the concept of religion.
In my opinion, it is the people who are of central importance. God-centered ideology is not contradictory to people-centered ideology in Islamic thought. These two ideologies are consistent. Firstly, as long as the people are not religious, there will be no religion-based government in a country and no religious community will be formed. Therefore, the existence of a religion-based government in a country means that the people of that country are religious. That is to say, unless the people had wished it, no such government would have come to power.
The goal of the rule of divine religion is to improve the living conditions of the oppressed, to enforce religious duties, and to uphold divine laws. That is because happiness, justice, and freedom all depend upon practicing religious laws. Where do they expect to find freedom? It is in the sanctuary of religion that all aspirations of man are realized.
In terms of his basic needs, modern man has not changed in the last 1000 or 10,000 years. The need for security, freedom, knowledge, and comfort are the basic needs of man. Basic needs also require that man detest discrimination and oppression. New needs that come up in the course of time can only be fulfilled when these basic needs have been fulfilled. These basis needs can only be fulfilled through divine religion.
The Holy Prophet (s.w.a.) presented the same orientation when he introduced his religion to the people. He used to insist on spirituality, but he would also provide the people with the means to fulfill their material requirements. By way of cooperation, he used to provide people with knowledge - that is, the knowledge about life and administration affairs. And when things became complicated and required expert knowledge, he used to order them to observe and gain the knowledge and insight.
The Middle Ages were dark for Europeans and a time for scientific brilliance among Muslims. Europeans deny this reality, and Western historians do not mention it. And we have come to believe them and have grown accustomed to what they say.
The nineteenth century, which was the peak of scientific research in the West, was paralleled with separation from religion and banishing it from the man's life. This ideology affected our country as well, and the main foundations of our universities were built on non-religious bases. Scholars turned their backs on universities, and universities turned their backs on scholars and Islamic seminaries.
Those who pretend to support religion and proclaim that 'religions must not engage in political affairs' are not aware that this is the new propaganda plot on the part of the arrogant and colonialist powers to undermine the rule of Islam and revival of Islam. Of course, the separation of religion form politics was proposed centuries ago. The idea was initially proposed by the agents of autocracy, namely those powerful people who controlled the community in a tyrannical manner and who wanted to be free to do whatever they wanted to the nation and the country. For obvious reasons, they did not want Islamic laws and those who promoted them to be involved in their government. Therefore, autocratic rulers are considered among the pioneers of the misguided idea that religion has to be separated from politics.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=839
13/07/2008
In the Name of the Most Sublime
Religion is first and foremost an outlook and a type of knowledge - knowledge about the world, man, and one's path, route, and goal. All these pieces of knowledge collectively form the basis of religion. Religion considers man to be the hub of the universe. It regards man as the unrivalled being that can make intellectual efforts and shed light on undiscovered entities.
In order for religion to fulfill its responsibility, there ought to be a world in which the responsibility could be carried out. Religion has come to shape, redirect, and guide the efforts of man in this great world that is filled with various complexities. Considered in this way, religion and the world are inseparable. There is no other place except the world for religion to achieve the purposes for which it was intended. Without the creative and constructive role of religion, the world will be devoid of spirituality, affection, and life. Without religion, the world where man lives will turn into a jungle and will be governed by the law of the jungle. In this vast world, man must feel that he has peace and security so that he can tread the path of spiritual transcendence and development.
In this sense, separating religion from the world means that we have made life, politics, and economy devoid of spirituality. Separating the two entails the destruction of justice and spirituality. The world provides man with the opportunity to live, with different worldly blessings, with many beautiful attractions, and with pleasant incidents as well as sad and bitter misfortunes. Viewed in this way, the world provides man with the means to grow and evolve. From a religious point of view, these are the means that enable man to tread the path of transcendence and development and demonstrate the talents that God has bestowed on him. The world is not separable from religion in this sense. However, the world has another facet to it as well. In Islamic texts, 'world' has been used to mean sensuality, selfishness, carnal desires, and involving others in carnal desires. Based on our traditions, the world - in this sense - is not compatible with the concept of religion.
In my opinion, it is the people who are of central importance. God-centered ideology is not contradictory to people-centered ideology in Islamic thought. These two ideologies are consistent. Firstly, as long as the people are not religious, there will be no religion-based government in a country and no religious community will be formed. Therefore, the existence of a religion-based government in a country means that the people of that country are religious. That is to say, unless the people had wished it, no such government would have come to power.
The goal of the rule of divine religion is to improve the living conditions of the oppressed, to enforce religious duties, and to uphold divine laws. That is because happiness, justice, and freedom all depend upon practicing religious laws. Where do they expect to find freedom? It is in the sanctuary of religion that all aspirations of man are realized.
In terms of his basic needs, modern man has not changed in the last 1000 or 10,000 years. The need for security, freedom, knowledge, and comfort are the basic needs of man. Basic needs also require that man detest discrimination and oppression. New needs that come up in the course of time can only be fulfilled when these basic needs have been fulfilled. These basis needs can only be fulfilled through divine religion.
The Holy Prophet (s.w.a.) presented the same orientation when he introduced his religion to the people. He used to insist on spirituality, but he would also provide the people with the means to fulfill their material requirements. By way of cooperation, he used to provide people with knowledge - that is, the knowledge about life and administration affairs. And when things became complicated and required expert knowledge, he used to order them to observe and gain the knowledge and insight.
The Middle Ages were dark for Europeans and a time for scientific brilliance among Muslims. Europeans deny this reality, and Western historians do not mention it. And we have come to believe them and have grown accustomed to what they say.
The nineteenth century, which was the peak of scientific research in the West, was paralleled with separation from religion and banishing it from the man's life. This ideology affected our country as well, and the main foundations of our universities were built on non-religious bases. Scholars turned their backs on universities, and universities turned their backs on scholars and Islamic seminaries.
Those who pretend to support religion and proclaim that 'religions must not engage in political affairs' are not aware that this is the new propaganda plot on the part of the arrogant and colonialist powers to undermine the rule of Islam and revival of Islam. Of course, the separation of religion form politics was proposed centuries ago. The idea was initially proposed by the agents of autocracy, namely those powerful people who controlled the community in a tyrannical manner and who wanted to be free to do whatever they wanted to the nation and the country. For obvious reasons, they did not want Islamic laws and those who promoted them to be involved in their government. Therefore, autocratic rulers are considered among the pioneers of the misguided idea that religion has to be separated from politics.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=839
The Supreme Leader's View of the Islamic Ummah
The Supreme Leader's View of the Islamic Ummah
02/07/2008
The Supreme Leader's View of the Islamic Ummah
In the Name of the Most High
The first human and political outcome of Islam is the Islamic Ummah which started in Medina and began to tread the path of qualitative and quantitative growth in an astonishing and legendary manner. It was barely half a century from the birth of this auspicious phenomenon that almost half of all the territories of the three great neighboring ancient civilizations - namely, Persian, Roman, and Egyptian - were conquered. Afterwards, a century later, it created a prominent civilization and a glorious and powerful government at the hub of the globe which spread in the east from the Great Wall of China to the coasts of the Atlantic Ocean, and from Siberian steppes in the north to the southern part of the Indian Ocean in the south. The third and fourth centuries on the Hijri calendar as well as the following era enjoyed such a brilliant civilization that the scientific and cultural blessings of that period can be clearly observed in the current global civilization.
This phenomenon enjoys a rich culture and rich legacies that are accompanied by flourishment and exceptional brilliance. Despite having great variety, it enjoys astonishing unity and harmony which is the result of Islamic rule and influence as well as special pure monotheism in all it components, tenets, and aspects. These nations who are brotherly and unanimous - comprised of black-skinned, white-skinned, and yellow-skinned races that speak in tens of different languages - consider themselves as equal members of the great Islamic Ummah and are proud of it. They turn their faces [in prayers] towards the same center [namely, Ka'aba] each day, talk to Allah (s.w.t.) in the same language, and take lessons and inspiration from the same scripture. This scripture guarantees the explanation of all facts and consists of the rules concerning all their needs and duties: "And We have revealed the Book to thee explaining all things, and a guidance and mercy and good news for those who submit." [The Holy Quran, 16:89]. The geographical location of this group is one of the richest - if not the richest - lands throughout the world in terms of its natural resources. The list of the resources of the Islamic Ummah includes tens of major human, cultural, material, economic, political, and social categories, which could be recognized by anybody through some reflection.
The political and intellectual elites of the Islamic Ummah have to shoulder a heavy responsibility today. Muslim intellectuals must convey the Islamic message of emancipation to the hearts and ears of all their people as clearly and as eloquently as possible. They must appropriately explain the Islamic identity of Muslim nations. They must enlighten the youth with the clear teachings of Islam regarding subjects such as human rights, freedom, democracy, women's rights, fighting corruption, prohibiting discrimination, and fighting poverty and scientific backwardness. They must reveal to everybody the media deception of the West in regard to fighting terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. It is the West today that must be theoretically and practically challenged regarding these issues, and it must be held responsible before global public opinion.
The deceitful enemies of the Islamic Ummah are the belligerent and greedy people who run the centers of arrogance and who consider the Islamic Awakening as a serious threat to their illegitimate interests and their oppressive domination over the world of Islam. All Muslim nations and their statesmen, religious scholars, intellectuals, and national leaders must form a strong unified Islamic front against this belligerent enemy. They must gather all their power and appropriately make the Islamic Ummah powerful. Knowledge, acumen, vigilance, sense of commitment, reliance on Allah, being hopeful about divine promises, ignoring petty needs in exchange for obtaining God's satisfaction, fulfilling one's duties among other matters are the elements of power for the Islamic Ummah which help it to achieve glory, independence, and material and spiritual progress. These elements prevent the enemies from being greedy and encroaching on Islamic nations.
This new situation consists of two parts or elements. First, as a result of this situation Islamic thought and identity now enjoy more glory and dynamism throughout the world, and Islam has been introduced to the world as one of the most prominent realities in the world. Second, the domineering powers of the world have now adopted a clear belligerent stance towards Islam and Islamic aspirations. In fact, the chapter on fighting Islam and dealing with the increasing growth of Islamic movements is one the central chapters in the new world order proposed by the US for the post-communist era.
In fact, Muslim nations have started a genuine and deep-rooted movement - which must be called "Islamic Revival" - in the past two decades in eastern and western parts of the Islamic world and even in non-Muslim countries. Against the expectations of yesterday's colonialists and today's arrogant powers, the present educated young generation - that enjoys up-to-date information - not only has not forgotten Islam, but also has turned to Islam and seeks to find in it what it has lost. The rise of the Islamic Revolution in Iran and its increasing stability and power is the peak of this deep-rooted young movement, which has played a leading role in promoting the Islamic Awakening. This is exactly what has forced the axis of arrogance - which has always pretended not to fight what nations believe in and hold sacred - to step in and openly and sometimes violently fight Islam using all methods.
The arrogant enemies whose illegitimate interests and avarice are threatened by the Islamic Awakening use psychological warfare - namely making people feel disappointed, stigmatizing their identity, and flaunting their own material power and wealth - as their most important weapon in order to deal with this increasingly powerful wave. There will be thousands of media facilities in the future, as there is today, which will attempt to make Muslims disappointed in the prospect of a bright future or entice them towards the future that is in harmony with their own evil intentions. From the era of colonialism up to the present, this cultural invasion and psychological warfare have been the most effective means of the West in order to establish domination over Islamic countries. The modern propaganda with its international coverage is undoubtedly the most effective lever used by the arrogant powers. Today, the number of media and press using multimedia equipment, which spend most of their efforts to oppose Islam, is very high and is constantly increasing. There are a number mercenary experts who are busy broadcasting news and interpretations in order to mislead the minds of their audience and wrongly paint an ugly picture of the Islamic movement and the great Islamic figures. From the pre-Revolution era up to the present, the Islamic Republic has constantly and increasingly been confronted with such belligerent propaganda.
Of course, the individuals and groups of people are constantly harmed on two sides. First, they are harmed from inside, which is occasioned by human weaknesses, doubts, lack of faith, xenophilia, gullibility, loss of identity, lack of attention to Allah (s.w.t.), submission to materialistic people, suspicion about religious brothers, listening to the gossip that enemies say about one's religious brothers, lack of concern for the fate of the Islamic Ummah, not recognizing an entity called Islamic Ummah, lack of knowledge about the developments in other Islamic lands, lack of vigilance in the face of plots by the enemies of Islam and Muslims, conflict among different sects, and extreme nationalism that is mostly caused and strengthened by evil ulama and mercenary writers as well as many other fatal maladies, which have continually threatened Muslims throughout the history of Islam due to the domination of corrupt atheists over Muslims' destiny and political life. And in the last few centuries it has taken a critical and destructive form after the presence of foreign colonialist powers in the region and their corrupt puppets as well as some people greedy for worldly possessions.
The second way in which people are harmed is the efforts made by the enemies from outside who exert pressure on individuals and nations through their insurgency, greed, and aggression and who have proven to be an affliction for people through wars, impositions, oppression, and bullying.
Islamic settings - both individuals and nations - have always been subject to these two kinds of threat and are currently threatened even more seriously. Spreading corruption in Muslim countries and imposing Western culture - which is furthered by some dependant regimes - includes such areas as individual behavior, civil engineering, general living conditions, the press, as well as military, political, and economic pressure on Muslim nations and killings in Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries clearly bear testimony to the existence of these two types of threat.
However, the Palestinian issue is the most important issue today and has been the most important issue of the world of Islam or perhaps the entire humanity in the last 50 years. It is a matter of hardships and oppression suffered by a nation. It is matter of a nation's indignation. It is a matter of creating a tumor in the heart of Muslim countries and in the juncture where western and eastern parts of the world of Islam meet. It is a matter of constant oppression that has engulfed two consecutive generations of a Muslim nation.
Therefore, the usurper Zionist regime is the greatest danger for the world of Islam now and in the future. And it is up to Muslims to seek a remedy for this great threat and oppression. Of course, I am totally sure that in the foreseeable future the Palestinian nation will reclaim its violated rights and drive the oppressive and invading foreigners out of its home by relying on its own sacrifices and the awakening of the Muslim world. But the determination on the part of Muslim governments and nations will, by Allah's favor, facilitate the achievement of this prospect and will help decrease the hardships.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=834
02/07/2008
The Supreme Leader's View of the Islamic Ummah
In the Name of the Most High
The first human and political outcome of Islam is the Islamic Ummah which started in Medina and began to tread the path of qualitative and quantitative growth in an astonishing and legendary manner. It was barely half a century from the birth of this auspicious phenomenon that almost half of all the territories of the three great neighboring ancient civilizations - namely, Persian, Roman, and Egyptian - were conquered. Afterwards, a century later, it created a prominent civilization and a glorious and powerful government at the hub of the globe which spread in the east from the Great Wall of China to the coasts of the Atlantic Ocean, and from Siberian steppes in the north to the southern part of the Indian Ocean in the south. The third and fourth centuries on the Hijri calendar as well as the following era enjoyed such a brilliant civilization that the scientific and cultural blessings of that period can be clearly observed in the current global civilization.
This phenomenon enjoys a rich culture and rich legacies that are accompanied by flourishment and exceptional brilliance. Despite having great variety, it enjoys astonishing unity and harmony which is the result of Islamic rule and influence as well as special pure monotheism in all it components, tenets, and aspects. These nations who are brotherly and unanimous - comprised of black-skinned, white-skinned, and yellow-skinned races that speak in tens of different languages - consider themselves as equal members of the great Islamic Ummah and are proud of it. They turn their faces [in prayers] towards the same center [namely, Ka'aba] each day, talk to Allah (s.w.t.) in the same language, and take lessons and inspiration from the same scripture. This scripture guarantees the explanation of all facts and consists of the rules concerning all their needs and duties: "And We have revealed the Book to thee explaining all things, and a guidance and mercy and good news for those who submit." [The Holy Quran, 16:89]. The geographical location of this group is one of the richest - if not the richest - lands throughout the world in terms of its natural resources. The list of the resources of the Islamic Ummah includes tens of major human, cultural, material, economic, political, and social categories, which could be recognized by anybody through some reflection.
The political and intellectual elites of the Islamic Ummah have to shoulder a heavy responsibility today. Muslim intellectuals must convey the Islamic message of emancipation to the hearts and ears of all their people as clearly and as eloquently as possible. They must appropriately explain the Islamic identity of Muslim nations. They must enlighten the youth with the clear teachings of Islam regarding subjects such as human rights, freedom, democracy, women's rights, fighting corruption, prohibiting discrimination, and fighting poverty and scientific backwardness. They must reveal to everybody the media deception of the West in regard to fighting terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. It is the West today that must be theoretically and practically challenged regarding these issues, and it must be held responsible before global public opinion.
The deceitful enemies of the Islamic Ummah are the belligerent and greedy people who run the centers of arrogance and who consider the Islamic Awakening as a serious threat to their illegitimate interests and their oppressive domination over the world of Islam. All Muslim nations and their statesmen, religious scholars, intellectuals, and national leaders must form a strong unified Islamic front against this belligerent enemy. They must gather all their power and appropriately make the Islamic Ummah powerful. Knowledge, acumen, vigilance, sense of commitment, reliance on Allah, being hopeful about divine promises, ignoring petty needs in exchange for obtaining God's satisfaction, fulfilling one's duties among other matters are the elements of power for the Islamic Ummah which help it to achieve glory, independence, and material and spiritual progress. These elements prevent the enemies from being greedy and encroaching on Islamic nations.
This new situation consists of two parts or elements. First, as a result of this situation Islamic thought and identity now enjoy more glory and dynamism throughout the world, and Islam has been introduced to the world as one of the most prominent realities in the world. Second, the domineering powers of the world have now adopted a clear belligerent stance towards Islam and Islamic aspirations. In fact, the chapter on fighting Islam and dealing with the increasing growth of Islamic movements is one the central chapters in the new world order proposed by the US for the post-communist era.
In fact, Muslim nations have started a genuine and deep-rooted movement - which must be called "Islamic Revival" - in the past two decades in eastern and western parts of the Islamic world and even in non-Muslim countries. Against the expectations of yesterday's colonialists and today's arrogant powers, the present educated young generation - that enjoys up-to-date information - not only has not forgotten Islam, but also has turned to Islam and seeks to find in it what it has lost. The rise of the Islamic Revolution in Iran and its increasing stability and power is the peak of this deep-rooted young movement, which has played a leading role in promoting the Islamic Awakening. This is exactly what has forced the axis of arrogance - which has always pretended not to fight what nations believe in and hold sacred - to step in and openly and sometimes violently fight Islam using all methods.
The arrogant enemies whose illegitimate interests and avarice are threatened by the Islamic Awakening use psychological warfare - namely making people feel disappointed, stigmatizing their identity, and flaunting their own material power and wealth - as their most important weapon in order to deal with this increasingly powerful wave. There will be thousands of media facilities in the future, as there is today, which will attempt to make Muslims disappointed in the prospect of a bright future or entice them towards the future that is in harmony with their own evil intentions. From the era of colonialism up to the present, this cultural invasion and psychological warfare have been the most effective means of the West in order to establish domination over Islamic countries. The modern propaganda with its international coverage is undoubtedly the most effective lever used by the arrogant powers. Today, the number of media and press using multimedia equipment, which spend most of their efforts to oppose Islam, is very high and is constantly increasing. There are a number mercenary experts who are busy broadcasting news and interpretations in order to mislead the minds of their audience and wrongly paint an ugly picture of the Islamic movement and the great Islamic figures. From the pre-Revolution era up to the present, the Islamic Republic has constantly and increasingly been confronted with such belligerent propaganda.
Of course, the individuals and groups of people are constantly harmed on two sides. First, they are harmed from inside, which is occasioned by human weaknesses, doubts, lack of faith, xenophilia, gullibility, loss of identity, lack of attention to Allah (s.w.t.), submission to materialistic people, suspicion about religious brothers, listening to the gossip that enemies say about one's religious brothers, lack of concern for the fate of the Islamic Ummah, not recognizing an entity called Islamic Ummah, lack of knowledge about the developments in other Islamic lands, lack of vigilance in the face of plots by the enemies of Islam and Muslims, conflict among different sects, and extreme nationalism that is mostly caused and strengthened by evil ulama and mercenary writers as well as many other fatal maladies, which have continually threatened Muslims throughout the history of Islam due to the domination of corrupt atheists over Muslims' destiny and political life. And in the last few centuries it has taken a critical and destructive form after the presence of foreign colonialist powers in the region and their corrupt puppets as well as some people greedy for worldly possessions.
The second way in which people are harmed is the efforts made by the enemies from outside who exert pressure on individuals and nations through their insurgency, greed, and aggression and who have proven to be an affliction for people through wars, impositions, oppression, and bullying.
Islamic settings - both individuals and nations - have always been subject to these two kinds of threat and are currently threatened even more seriously. Spreading corruption in Muslim countries and imposing Western culture - which is furthered by some dependant regimes - includes such areas as individual behavior, civil engineering, general living conditions, the press, as well as military, political, and economic pressure on Muslim nations and killings in Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries clearly bear testimony to the existence of these two types of threat.
However, the Palestinian issue is the most important issue today and has been the most important issue of the world of Islam or perhaps the entire humanity in the last 50 years. It is a matter of hardships and oppression suffered by a nation. It is matter of a nation's indignation. It is a matter of creating a tumor in the heart of Muslim countries and in the juncture where western and eastern parts of the world of Islam meet. It is a matter of constant oppression that has engulfed two consecutive generations of a Muslim nation.
Therefore, the usurper Zionist regime is the greatest danger for the world of Islam now and in the future. And it is up to Muslims to seek a remedy for this great threat and oppression. Of course, I am totally sure that in the foreseeable future the Palestinian nation will reclaim its violated rights and drive the oppressive and invading foreigners out of its home by relying on its own sacrifices and the awakening of the Muslim world. But the determination on the part of Muslim governments and nations will, by Allah's favor, facilitate the achievement of this prospect and will help decrease the hardships.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=834
Eid ul-Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr
20/02/2008
The Rules of Zakate Fitriah
- It is obligatory that everybody give away approximately 3 kilograms of their ordinary food for themselves and each of their family members [who financially depend on him]. Ordinary food refers to such things as wheat that people generally use as nourishment.
(Taken from a public speech made by the Supreme Leader on April 26, 1990)
The Night of Eid ul-Fitr
- The time for paying fitriah starts from the dusk of the last day of the month - that is, the night before Eid ul-Fitr - and those who are required to pay it are advised to do so before performing the Eid ul-Fitr prayer and give their fitriah to the people who perform their prayer in the same place. Therefore, it will be best if you, for instance, calculate the amount of fitriah that you have to pay tonight and pay it tomorrow morning before you perform the Eid ul-Fitr prayer. Of course, if you do not pay your fitriah before the prayer, it is not unlawful to do so after the prayer.
(Taken from a public speech made by the Supreme Leader on April 26, 1990)
Eid ul-Fitr Prayer
- This prayer is a very valuable one. This prayer includes dua, supplication, weeping and attention to Allah. The Eid ul-Fitr prayer is a beneficial prayer. All kinds of worship are for our edification and progress.
(Taken from a public speech made by the Supreme Leader on April 26, 1990)
Eid ul-Fitr
- The month of Ramadan passed by with all its greatness, blessings and the atmosphere which was full of grace. Thanks to days of fasting, appeals to Allah, dua, Allah's remembrance and the reciting of the Quran, Muslim people all over the world got closer to Allah and illuminated their hearts and souls. Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic festival. The Islamic world celebrates it in the true sense of the word, and that is what Islam has desired for the Islamic Ummah. "Allah the Exalted considered the Islamic Ummah worthy of this Eid and thus He declared it an Eid for them." We must make the best of this divine gift. This includes personal use in the sense that we allow the light of understanding and penitence to shine on our hearts. As it is the human heart that is the source of good and evil, if we open a door from the world of divine understanding and affection on our hearts and illuminate our inner self, most of the troubles and darkness in the outer world will start to disappear.
(Taken from a speech made to executive officials on December 16, 2001)
Eid ul-Fitr: The Day for Receiving Divine Reward and Grace
- Eid ul-Fitr is the day in which we receive the divine reward and see Allah's grace after the month of Ramadan. Thankfully, you safely went through the month of Ramadan which was the month of patience. And Allah the Exalted made you succeed - through your own dua, dhikr and prayer - in performing the obligatory duty of fasting, appeal to and humility before the Almighty. Today is the day that Allah the Exalted will [by His grace] give you the reward you deserve. Perhaps one of the greatest divine rewards is his making us successful in serving as a medium of divine grace and remaining so until next Ramadan.... If we practice the lesson that Ramadan teaches us throughout the year, Allah will bestow this blessing on us, which is one of the greatest rewards. This Eid will be a real Eid, if we ask Allah the Exalted for well-being and His grace and satisfaction.
(Taken from a speech made to executive officials on December 16, 2001)
Eid Ul-Fitr: A Spiritual and International Celebration
- Perhaps the most important characteristic of the auspicious Eid ul-Fitr is that it is a spiritual and international celebration. This international celebration has an evident spiritual facet to it. In the qunut part of the Eid ul-Fitr prayer, we say that this Eid is for all Muslims, a source of honor for Islam and the Prophet (SWA), and an inexhaustible resource for the whole history. We must look at the auspicious Eid ul-Fitr from this perspective. Today, our great Islamic nation is in need of this resource. Out of this resource, there are two things that must be used by Muslims: first, unity and closeness among Muslims and second, paying attention to spirituality in the Islamic world. In the Islamic world, both of these factors - which help us evolve and progress - have been neglected.
(Taken from a speech made to government officials on December 28, 2000)
- As for those who have spent the month of Ramadan in worship and taken advantage of this spiritual opportunity, today is the day in which they are going to receive their reward from Allah the Exalted. Today, in the spiritual world, you dear youth and faithful people who have a deep understanding of Islamic truth will receive your reward for your sincere fasting, recitation of the Quran, midnight prayers, supplication, dua, charity, beneficence and whatever you have done in the holy month of Ramadan.
- The Commander of the Faithful (AS) delivered a public sermon on Eid ul-Fitr in which he said, "O people, this is the day in which those who have done pious deeds [during Ramadan] are going to receive their reward and those who have done bad deeds are going to suffer loss and deprivation.
- Eid means, 'an anniversary that is accompanied by happiness and festivities'. What is it that brings about happiness for the Islamic Ummah? [The answer is] pursuing Islamic aspirations.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=540
20/02/2008
The Rules of Zakate Fitriah
- It is obligatory that everybody give away approximately 3 kilograms of their ordinary food for themselves and each of their family members [who financially depend on him]. Ordinary food refers to such things as wheat that people generally use as nourishment.
(Taken from a public speech made by the Supreme Leader on April 26, 1990)
The Night of Eid ul-Fitr
- The time for paying fitriah starts from the dusk of the last day of the month - that is, the night before Eid ul-Fitr - and those who are required to pay it are advised to do so before performing the Eid ul-Fitr prayer and give their fitriah to the people who perform their prayer in the same place. Therefore, it will be best if you, for instance, calculate the amount of fitriah that you have to pay tonight and pay it tomorrow morning before you perform the Eid ul-Fitr prayer. Of course, if you do not pay your fitriah before the prayer, it is not unlawful to do so after the prayer.
(Taken from a public speech made by the Supreme Leader on April 26, 1990)
Eid ul-Fitr Prayer
- This prayer is a very valuable one. This prayer includes dua, supplication, weeping and attention to Allah. The Eid ul-Fitr prayer is a beneficial prayer. All kinds of worship are for our edification and progress.
(Taken from a public speech made by the Supreme Leader on April 26, 1990)
Eid ul-Fitr
- The month of Ramadan passed by with all its greatness, blessings and the atmosphere which was full of grace. Thanks to days of fasting, appeals to Allah, dua, Allah's remembrance and the reciting of the Quran, Muslim people all over the world got closer to Allah and illuminated their hearts and souls. Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic festival. The Islamic world celebrates it in the true sense of the word, and that is what Islam has desired for the Islamic Ummah. "Allah the Exalted considered the Islamic Ummah worthy of this Eid and thus He declared it an Eid for them." We must make the best of this divine gift. This includes personal use in the sense that we allow the light of understanding and penitence to shine on our hearts. As it is the human heart that is the source of good and evil, if we open a door from the world of divine understanding and affection on our hearts and illuminate our inner self, most of the troubles and darkness in the outer world will start to disappear.
(Taken from a speech made to executive officials on December 16, 2001)
Eid ul-Fitr: The Day for Receiving Divine Reward and Grace
- Eid ul-Fitr is the day in which we receive the divine reward and see Allah's grace after the month of Ramadan. Thankfully, you safely went through the month of Ramadan which was the month of patience. And Allah the Exalted made you succeed - through your own dua, dhikr and prayer - in performing the obligatory duty of fasting, appeal to and humility before the Almighty. Today is the day that Allah the Exalted will [by His grace] give you the reward you deserve. Perhaps one of the greatest divine rewards is his making us successful in serving as a medium of divine grace and remaining so until next Ramadan.... If we practice the lesson that Ramadan teaches us throughout the year, Allah will bestow this blessing on us, which is one of the greatest rewards. This Eid will be a real Eid, if we ask Allah the Exalted for well-being and His grace and satisfaction.
(Taken from a speech made to executive officials on December 16, 2001)
Eid Ul-Fitr: A Spiritual and International Celebration
- Perhaps the most important characteristic of the auspicious Eid ul-Fitr is that it is a spiritual and international celebration. This international celebration has an evident spiritual facet to it. In the qunut part of the Eid ul-Fitr prayer, we say that this Eid is for all Muslims, a source of honor for Islam and the Prophet (SWA), and an inexhaustible resource for the whole history. We must look at the auspicious Eid ul-Fitr from this perspective. Today, our great Islamic nation is in need of this resource. Out of this resource, there are two things that must be used by Muslims: first, unity and closeness among Muslims and second, paying attention to spirituality in the Islamic world. In the Islamic world, both of these factors - which help us evolve and progress - have been neglected.
(Taken from a speech made to government officials on December 28, 2000)
- As for those who have spent the month of Ramadan in worship and taken advantage of this spiritual opportunity, today is the day in which they are going to receive their reward from Allah the Exalted. Today, in the spiritual world, you dear youth and faithful people who have a deep understanding of Islamic truth will receive your reward for your sincere fasting, recitation of the Quran, midnight prayers, supplication, dua, charity, beneficence and whatever you have done in the holy month of Ramadan.
- The Commander of the Faithful (AS) delivered a public sermon on Eid ul-Fitr in which he said, "O people, this is the day in which those who have done pious deeds [during Ramadan] are going to receive their reward and those who have done bad deeds are going to suffer loss and deprivation.
- Eid means, 'an anniversary that is accompanied by happiness and festivities'. What is it that brings about happiness for the Islamic Ummah? [The answer is] pursuing Islamic aspirations.
http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=540
Saturday, September 3, 2011
"World wants to break us through sanctions"
"World wants to break us through sanctions"
9/2/2011 4:19:36 PM
The world rose to confront the Iranian nation through military war, fifth column and soft war but our nation has emerged elated and now they want to break us through sanctions, Tehran's interim Friday prayer leader Hojjatoleslam Kazem Seddiqi said.
"As the Supreme Leader said, materializing the economic growth in all fields is a duty for officials and it should be done," he stressed.
Hojjatoleslam Seddiqi then thanked the Iranian nation for their massive turnout in the World Quds Day rallies on the last Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan.
"The World Quds Day is the day of Islam. This year's World Quds Day was different from the ones in the previous years as the Egyptian people for the first ever joined the Iranian nation in chanting 'Down with Israel' in the said rallies," he added.
Tehran's interim Friday prayer leader also thanked the Iranian nation for donating aid to the draught-stricken people of Somalia.
http://english.iribnews.ir/NewsBody.aspx?ID=15248
9/2/2011 4:19:36 PM
The world rose to confront the Iranian nation through military war, fifth column and soft war but our nation has emerged elated and now they want to break us through sanctions, Tehran's interim Friday prayer leader Hojjatoleslam Kazem Seddiqi said.
"As the Supreme Leader said, materializing the economic growth in all fields is a duty for officials and it should be done," he stressed.
Hojjatoleslam Seddiqi then thanked the Iranian nation for their massive turnout in the World Quds Day rallies on the last Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan.
"The World Quds Day is the day of Islam. This year's World Quds Day was different from the ones in the previous years as the Egyptian people for the first ever joined the Iranian nation in chanting 'Down with Israel' in the said rallies," he added.
Tehran's interim Friday prayer leader also thanked the Iranian nation for donating aid to the draught-stricken people of Somalia.
http://english.iribnews.ir/NewsBody.aspx?ID=15248
Supreme Leader Calls on Muslims to Return to Their Original Islamic Identity
Supreme Leader Calls on Muslims to Return to Their Original Islamic Identity
2011/08/31 - 23:25
Speaking during a meeting with a group of government officials and ordinary citizens from various social backgrounds on Wednesday, Ayatollah Khamenei the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution urged Muslims to return to their original Islamic identity. He added that Islamic Awakening in the region is the result of faith in Islam and reliance on God.
His Eminence said that Islamic Awakening in the region and the presence of the regional people on the scene in order to take control of their destiny is a very important and valuable experience in the history of Islam and reiterated: "The events that are happening in Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen, Libya, Bahrain and certain other countries are decisive and fateful events for Muslim nations."
The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution stressed: "If the willpower of Muslim nations overcomes those who try to interfere in Islamic countries, Muslim countries will have a progressive movement for a long time."
Ayatollah Khamenei added: "But if the world of arrogance and the leaders of global hegemony and Zionism - including the arrogant and oppressive US regime - manage to ride these waves and take management of the situation into their own hands, the world of Islam will definitely have to deal with big problems for decades."
The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution said that members of the Islamic Ummah, particularly prominent political and cultural figures of the world of Islam, have a very important responsibility at this sensitive stage, further stressing: "Today Islamic countries and Muslim nations have to go through a great test. Until today, nations were not so much aware of their capabilities. Today nations have come to know what power they have and how effective their willpower can be."
Ayatollah Khamenei said that the resistance of the Iranian nation in the face of the pressure exerted by the arrogant powers - particularly the sanctions and the military, political and security threats - is an example of how a nation can rely on its own capabilities to stand up against the enemy. He reiterated that the results of the 33-year resistance of the Iranian nation have become clear.
His Eminence said that the Iranian nation is a glorious, powerful and progressive nation with promising prospects, adding that the current historical stage is one of the most brilliant stages of Iran's history.
http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8545
2011/08/31 - 23:25
Speaking during a meeting with a group of government officials and ordinary citizens from various social backgrounds on Wednesday, Ayatollah Khamenei the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution urged Muslims to return to their original Islamic identity. He added that Islamic Awakening in the region is the result of faith in Islam and reliance on God.
His Eminence said that Islamic Awakening in the region and the presence of the regional people on the scene in order to take control of their destiny is a very important and valuable experience in the history of Islam and reiterated: "The events that are happening in Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen, Libya, Bahrain and certain other countries are decisive and fateful events for Muslim nations."
The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution stressed: "If the willpower of Muslim nations overcomes those who try to interfere in Islamic countries, Muslim countries will have a progressive movement for a long time."
Ayatollah Khamenei added: "But if the world of arrogance and the leaders of global hegemony and Zionism - including the arrogant and oppressive US regime - manage to ride these waves and take management of the situation into their own hands, the world of Islam will definitely have to deal with big problems for decades."
The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution said that members of the Islamic Ummah, particularly prominent political and cultural figures of the world of Islam, have a very important responsibility at this sensitive stage, further stressing: "Today Islamic countries and Muslim nations have to go through a great test. Until today, nations were not so much aware of their capabilities. Today nations have come to know what power they have and how effective their willpower can be."
Ayatollah Khamenei said that the resistance of the Iranian nation in the face of the pressure exerted by the arrogant powers - particularly the sanctions and the military, political and security threats - is an example of how a nation can rely on its own capabilities to stand up against the enemy. He reiterated that the results of the 33-year resistance of the Iranian nation have become clear.
His Eminence said that the Iranian nation is a glorious, powerful and progressive nation with promising prospects, adding that the current historical stage is one of the most brilliant stages of Iran's history.
http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8545
Leader urges Muslim nations to remain vigilant
Leader urges Muslim nations to remain vigilant
2011/08/31 - 22:27
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei has warned against plots hatched by enemies to hijack the Muslim world's achievements, urging Muslim nations to remain vigilant.
Nations in Muslim countries must be vigilant and cautious not to permit enemies to hijack their victories, said Ayatollah Khamenei in an address to massive crowds of worshippers during the Eid al-Fitr prayers at Tehran University on Wednesday.
Ayatollah Khamenei pointed to “big events” which have taken place in the Muslim world during the recent months and added that the world is going through an important chapter in its history at the current juncture.
Islamic Revolution Leader stated that Muslims are currently present in the scene and emphasized that the puppets of America and the Zionist regime are falling in the region “one after another.”
However, issues have not been settled; this is the start of a long path, the Islamic Revolution Leader pointed out.
He further expressed “deep concern” over the situation in Bahrain, saying promises to the oppressed Bahraini people are not fulfilled.
Ayatollah Khamenei also praised the Iranian nation for its high turnout in the International Quds Day rallies and noted that regional developments allowed other Muslim nations to massively participate in the anti-arrogance rallies.
He expressed hope that Palestine and the entire region would get rid of the cruel Zionists.
Ayatollah Khamenei further stressed the importance of strengthening unity among the Iranian officials and nation particularly as the country is gearing up for parliamentary elections in March.
"Elections have always been a relatively challenging issue," said Ayatollah Khamenei, urging the Iranian people to remain vigilant to thwart enemies' plans to misuse the issue of elections and to inflict damage on the people's security.
"Elections are the manifestation of religious democracy. However, enemies seek to misuse elections to harm the country," he stated.
Ayatollah Khamenei also called on the Iranian nation to safeguard elections which are a divine blessing.
Ayatollah Khamenei further expressed deep sorrow for the famine-hit people in Somalia and called on the Iranian nation and officials to provide Somalis with more relief aid.
http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8543
2011/08/31 - 22:27
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei has warned against plots hatched by enemies to hijack the Muslim world's achievements, urging Muslim nations to remain vigilant.
Nations in Muslim countries must be vigilant and cautious not to permit enemies to hijack their victories, said Ayatollah Khamenei in an address to massive crowds of worshippers during the Eid al-Fitr prayers at Tehran University on Wednesday.
Ayatollah Khamenei pointed to “big events” which have taken place in the Muslim world during the recent months and added that the world is going through an important chapter in its history at the current juncture.
Islamic Revolution Leader stated that Muslims are currently present in the scene and emphasized that the puppets of America and the Zionist regime are falling in the region “one after another.”
However, issues have not been settled; this is the start of a long path, the Islamic Revolution Leader pointed out.
He further expressed “deep concern” over the situation in Bahrain, saying promises to the oppressed Bahraini people are not fulfilled.
Ayatollah Khamenei also praised the Iranian nation for its high turnout in the International Quds Day rallies and noted that regional developments allowed other Muslim nations to massively participate in the anti-arrogance rallies.
He expressed hope that Palestine and the entire region would get rid of the cruel Zionists.
Ayatollah Khamenei further stressed the importance of strengthening unity among the Iranian officials and nation particularly as the country is gearing up for parliamentary elections in March.
"Elections have always been a relatively challenging issue," said Ayatollah Khamenei, urging the Iranian people to remain vigilant to thwart enemies' plans to misuse the issue of elections and to inflict damage on the people's security.
"Elections are the manifestation of religious democracy. However, enemies seek to misuse elections to harm the country," he stated.
Ayatollah Khamenei also called on the Iranian nation to safeguard elections which are a divine blessing.
Ayatollah Khamenei further expressed deep sorrow for the famine-hit people in Somalia and called on the Iranian nation and officials to provide Somalis with more relief aid.
http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8543
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