Grand Ayatollah Shirazi: Obedience to God, Avoiding Sin Are Foundations of Human and Social Happiness

Grand Ayatollah Shirazi: Obedience to God, Avoiding Sin Are Foundations of Human and Social Happiness
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Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sadiq al-Husseini al-Shirazi has stressed that steadfast obedience to Almighty God and avoidance of sin are fundamental to the happiness of individuals and society, both in this world and the hereafter. He called on people to give reason precedence over desires and remain committed to divine teachings.

Referring to a saying of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), “God has concealed His pleasure in obedience to Him and His displeasure in disobedience to Him,” His Eminence explained that this encourages people to persist in good deeds and avoid all forms of wrongdoing. He noted that obedience includes prayer, fasting, maintaining family ties, helping those in need, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong.

He also warned against treating sins lightly, explaining that people do not know when divine punishment may follow an act of disobedience; it may occur in this world, in the hereafter, or in both, according to divine wisdom.

The Supreme Marja further highlighted the importance of chastity and observing Islamic rules, citing a narration from Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) concerning an incident during circumambulation as a reminder to remain vigilant against sin.

He concluded that reason and desires are part of the human test: reason guides people towards obedience and away from injustice, while unchecked desires may lead them towards wrongdoing. He urged believers to follow the guidance of reason, remain obedient to God and refrain from sin for the well-being of individuals and society.