Muslim world commemorates passing anniversary of Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Taqi al-Shirazi
Muslim world commemorates passing anniversary of Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Taqi al-Shirazi
Religious and academic circles across the Muslim world are observing the anniversary of Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Taqi al-Shirazi’s passing, the seminal figure behind Iraq’s 1920 Revolution against British occupation. The influential cleric and political leader died on this date (13 Dhul-Hijjah) in 1338 AH (1920 CE), with historical accounts indicating he was poisoned by British operatives at age 82.
Al-Shirazi’s burial within the sacred precincts of Imam Hussein’s shrine in Karbala underscores his enduring spiritual and political significance. Born in 1256 AH (1840 CE) in Shiraz, Iran, the scholar rose to become one of Shia Islam’s foremost jurists, eventually assuming the position of Supreme Religious Authority (Marja’ al-Taqlid).
The Ayatollah’s 1919 fatwa declaring armed resistance against British forces obligatory (“wajib”) proved pivotal in mobilizing Iraq’s historic 1920 uprising. This religious edict, unprecedented among senior clerics of the era, unified tribal and urban factions against colonial rule, ultimately forcing significant British concessions.
“Al-Shirazi’s leadership demonstrated how religious authority could catalyze national liberation movements,” noted Dr. Abbas Kadhim of the Atlantic Council’s Iraq Initiative. “His fusion of scholarly erudition and political courage established a paradigm for subsequent anti-colonial struggles.”
Beyond his revolutionary role, al-Shirazi authored over 30 theological works, including seminal commentaries on Islamic commercial law and ritual practice that remain standard seminary texts. Contemporary Iraqi scholars emphasize the continued relevance of his intellectual legacy amid ongoing regional tensions.
“Today’s challenges demand the same clarity of principle al-Shirazi demonstrated,” said Karbala-based historian Dr. Hassan al-Hakim. “His example reminds us that authentic religious leadership cannot remain detached from justice struggles.”
Memorial events are being held in Iraq, Iran and among Shia communities worldwide, featuring academic symposia on al-Shirazi’s constitutional theories and their modern applications. The Iraqi Ministry of Culture announced plans to digitize his complete works as part of the revolution’s centennial observances.
