Grand Ayatollah Shirazi: Showing Off in Hussaini Rituals is a Virtue
On Thursday, the 3rd of Safar, the daily scholarly sessions led by Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sadiq al-Hosseini al-Shirazi continued, where the Marja addressed attendees’ questions on various jurisprudential issues.
In relation to the concepts of showing off (riya) and seeking reputation (sum’ah) in acts of worship, Grand Ayatollah Shirazi stated that both are prohibited and invalidate a person’s religious practices.
His Eminence defined riya as an action performed with the intention of displaying one’s worship to others, while sum’ah refers to performing an act of worship with the motive that others witness it and later recount it to others.
The Supreme Religious Authority noted that “riya” can also mean presenting an action, and said: In some instances, showcasing one’s actions is commendable; for example, during mourning for the deceased and their funeral ceremony, it is recommended for individuals to visibly express their condolences, thereby presenting themselves to the bereaved.
Regarding the act of presenting and showcasing Divine rituals, Grand Ayatollah Shirazi emphasized that participating in such rituals is certainly no less significant than presenting oneself at a funeral. He argued that showcasing these rituals strengthens their significance and increases their prevalence. Therefore, in this context, riya and sum’ah in Divine rituals are not only permissible but desirable, enhancing the spiritual reward of the individual.
Referencing a well-known narration (anyone who weeps for the tragedy of Imam al-Hussein or causes others to weep, or even simulates crying if unable to do so, is guaranteed the Paradise), his Eminence explained that sometimes an individual’s tears can inspire fervour and emotion in the mourning assembly for Imam al-Hussein, leading others to weep as well not just in response to the lamenting eulogies being recited but also his state of mourning. Thus, in such cases, showcasing one’s grief is commendable; pretence and “riya” in these instances are not only permissible but also desirable.
