10th International Sajjadiyya Festival Kicks Off in Holy Karbala
The holy city of Karbala witnessed the launch of the 10th International Sajjadiyya Festival on Wednesday evening, attended by numerous religious and academic figures from various countries around the world.
In his opening speech, Sheikh Abd al-Mahdi al-Karbalaei stated, “The primary goal of holding this festival is to remind and highlight the fundamental role of the heritage of Imam Zain al-Abidin (peace be upon him) in Islamic thought, doctrinal approach, jurisprudence, ethics, and social issues. This heritage plays a vital role in the Islamic nation’s journey to reform its various conditions, complementing the message of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) and opening avenues to enlighten minds for further research, study, and awareness of the treasures of knowledge and moral elevation left by Imam Zain al-Abidin (peace be upon him), which have not received adequate research attention and social application.”
He added, “This festival and the activities of the Imam Zain al-Abidin Foundation come to fulfill what is truly significant for this heritage within the Islamic community, alongside another heritage that has not been given its due, namely the Nahj al-Balagha of Amir al-Mu’minin (peace be upon him), as well as various books and messages from the pure Imams (peace be upon them) to their followers. For instance, the message of Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) to his followers was studied and discussed so much that during his time and after, followers of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) would place it in their special prayer areas within their homes, as recorded in some historical texts. It was customary for the Shiites of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) to designate a place for prayer and worship in every home.”
It is noteworthy that the International Sajjadiyya Festival is organized annually by the holy Imam Hussein Shrine in conjunction with the commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Zain al-Abidin (peace be upon him). The festival includes a book fair, research sessions, a poetry competition, and various activities conducted by the festival’s management during the specified period.
