The president of the Islamic Jurisprudence and Law Scientific Association of the Hawzas (Shia seminaries) stated that the tragedy of Karbala transcends time and place. He explained that the day of Ashura is in fact a “day” for all of humanity, destined by God, just as the land of Karbala is a “setting” from which humanity can derive lessons.
Ayatollah Abolqasem Alidoost, in an interview with Shafaqna, said: “The ‘freedom-seeking’ perspective is one that sees the Ashura event in a way that is mostly found among non-Muslims. When Gandhi speaks about the Karbala tragedy, he does not aim to recite the lamentations or mourn, as our media outlets or national television might do. He is not seeking to talk about enjoining good and forbidding evil, nor about fighting Yazid and defending the faith. Rather, his perspective on the Karbala incident is a ‘freedom-seeking’ one. However, I believe Ashura is not just any of these things – it embodies all of them.”
He emphasized, “The Ashura event is like a vast university of lessons, and anyone can learn from it according to their own perspective and analysis. The event, while short in time and limited in number, offers lessons everywhere you look. In some parts, it teaches self-sacrifice and forgiveness, and in others, it imparts lessons on the pursuit of freedom and independence.”
The member of the Society of Seminary Teachers of Qom underlined: “The educational university of Ashura is not subject to the passage of time. The most well-known, firmest, and clearest document from Imam Hussain (A.S.) that outlines his goals is his will to his brother Muhammad ibn Hanafiyyah when he left Medina. In this brief will, Imam Hussain (A.S.) states: ‘I did not rise out of vanity, arrogance, corruption, or oppression. Rather, I stand up to set right the affairs of the ummah (community) of my grandfather. I want to enjoin good and forbid evil, and follow the way of my grandfather and my father, Ali ibn Abi Talib (A.S.). Whoever accepts my mission and truth, then Allah is the most deserving of truth. And whoever does not accept this from me, I will remain patient until Allah judges between me and the people. He is the best of judges. My success comes only from Allah. I place my trust in Him, and to Him is my return.’”
He added that despite being aware of the events in Kufa, Imam Hussain (A.S.) continued on his path. According to historical narrations, Imam Hussain (A.S.) described his purpose as follows: “Corruption has spread on earth, the obedience to Satan has flourished, and the obedience to God has been neglected. First and foremost, I stand to support the religion of Allah, to honor the faith, and to strive in His way.”
Source: Shafaqna Persian , Shafaqna English
