QOM — In a profound address marking the beginning of the new academic year for advanced seminary studies, Ayatollah Reza Ramazani, Secretary-General of the AhlulBayt (AS) World Assembly, outlined the critical responsibilities of religious scholars in the modern era. Emphasising the Quranic mandate to follow the Messenger of Allah (S), Ayatollah Ramazani stressed that the Ulema inherit the prophetic missions of propagation, education, and spiritual training.
Overcoming Colonial Divides to Forge a Unified Ummah
Reflecting on the history of prophetic missions, Ayatollah Ramazani noted that while all prophets sought to build a unified Ummah, it was the Prophet of Islam (S) who successfully established it. However, subsequent historical disputes and sectarian divisions severely weakened the Muslim world. He pointed directly to the destructive legacy of colonialism, particularly British interference, which weaponised theological differences to fracture Sunni and Shia relations, leading to centuries of internal conflict and the plundering of Muslim resources.
Today, however, a profound awakening is underway. Ayatollah Ramazani highlighted the visionary leadership of Imam Khomeini (RA) and the ongoing guidance of the Supreme Leadership in revitalising the Islamic Ummah. This ideological renaissance has transcended traditional borders, drawing solidarity from non-Muslims and followers of Abrahamic and Eastern faiths who recognise shared moral values and anti-imperialist goals. Massive international gatherings in countries like Pakistan—drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees—demonstrate that human consciences are awakening to the righteous path of the Resistance following the martyrdom of key leaders.
The Seminary’s Duty in an Era of Global Crisis
Describing the current geopolitical and social landscape as “unprecedented” for the propagation of Islam, Ayatollah Ramazani noted that the so-called “enlightened” Western models are collapsing under the weight of intellectual, moral, and familial crises. In this vacuum, the seminary bears a heavy burden to train “scholars of the time”—clerics equipped with modern skills, deep theological insight, and an acute awareness of contemporary ideological warfare.
“To be aware of one’s time is to be shielded from confusion,” he noted, urging the clergy to master the arts of modern propagation, debate, and localised communication to effectively defend the faith against hybrid warfare.
From Islamic Revolution to Islamic Civilisation
Ayatollah Ramazani mapped the historical trajectory outlined by Imam Khomeini: moving from the Islamic Revolution to the establishment of the Islamic System, the Islamic State, the Islamic Society, and ultimately, Islamic Civilisation. He reminded his audience of the immense blood and sacrifices paid to secure Iran’s independence—from the martyrs of the Sacred Defence to the clerics assassinated by foreign-backed terror groups in the revolution’s early years.
He emphasised that an Islamic State carries a divine responsibility to foster public morality and prevent the societal decay seen in historical examples like Andalusia. Upholding Islamic values, including the hijab and public decency, is a collective duty shared by over 30 state institutions, the clergy, and the public, serving as a bulwark against the enemy’s cultural subversion.
The Divine Mandate of Resistance
Addressing the geopolitical realities facing the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ramazani fiercely defended the “Theory of Resistance” as a fundamental Quranic doctrine against global arrogance. He categorically rejected recent calls suggesting a public referendum on Iran’s defensive capabilities.
“We will never hold a referendum for the continuation of defence; never,” he declared. “Did the aggressors ever hold a referendum before attacking us? Defence is a legitimate, rational right, and a divine duty to protect our honour, our land, and our people.”
Concluding his remarks, Ayatollah Ramazani praised the unwavering steadfastness of the Yemeni people and the broader Resistance Front. He affirmed that as long as the global Ummah remains united and resolute, the Axis of Resistance will remain an invincible force against the forces of imperialism and oppression.
Reference: ABNA24