On Wednesday evening, the holy city of Karbala witnessed the launch of the activities of the tenth Tarateel Sajjadiya International Festival, in the presence of the representative of the Supreme Religious Authority, Sheikh Abdul-Mahdi Al-Karbalaey, the Secretary-General of Imam Hussain Holy Shrine, Hajj Hassan Rashid Al-Abayji, and a large number of religious and academic figures from various countries of the world.

Sheikh Al-Karbalaey said in his speech at the opening ceremony, “The festival aims to remember and draw attention to the fundamental roles that distinguish the heritage of Imam Sajjad (peace be upon him) in Islamic thought and its doctrinal, jurisprudential, moral and social approach to reform the Islamic nation in its various conditions. This blessed heritage complements the message of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) and opens horizons and enlightens minds for more research, study and awareness of what Imam Sajjad (peace be upon him) left from a legacy that has not received sufficient research attention and behavioral and social application.”

The representative of the Supreme Religious Authority added, “In the context of another heritage that has not been given its due importance is Nahj Al-Balagha of the Commander of the Faithful (peace be upon him), as well as some books and letters of the Infallible Imams (peace be upon them) to their Shias, including the letter of Imam Al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) to his followers whom used to study, discuss and teach it. Moreover, they would place it in their private prayer area inside their homes at that time, according to what some historical books have reported.”

He continued by mentioning the characteristics of the ethical approach and the Islamic social theory, and recommended reading one supplication a day from the book of supplications of Imam Al-Sajjad (Al-Sahifa Al-Sajjadiya).

Tarateel Sajjadiya International Festival is held annually by the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) on the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Al-Sajjad (peace be upon him), and it includes a book fair as well research sessions and a poetry contest.

Ebrahim Al-Owaini