AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): Members of the Central Committee for I'tikaf met with Ayatollah Reza Ramazani, the Secretary-General of the AhlulBayt (a.s.) World Assembly, at the assembly’s headquarters in Qom.
Strengthening Religious Spirituality Through the Tradition of I'tikaf
Ayatollah Reza Ramazani, the Secretary-General of the AhlulBayt (a.s.) World Assembly, during this meeting, referred to the role of I'tikaf in Islamic civilization, stating, “One of the key features of the new Islamic civilization, or the monotheistic system, is spiritual meaning, and one of the outcomes of I'tikaf is the strengthening of religious spirituality.”
He noted that separating various groups of participants in I'tikaf based on location has both benefits and considerations, adding, “Specialists in sociology should be consulted to study this issue so that decisions can be made regarding its continuation in the future.”
The Secretary-General of the AhlulBayt (a.s.) World Assembly added, “For years, the tradition of I'tikaf has been institutionalized in Iran, and the I'tikaf Committee has reached maturity and capability. The knowledge-sharing circles organized during I'tikaf are of great importance and must be purpose-driven. To this end, heavy discussions with complex terminology should be avoided in these circles and suggested topics should be provided for the speakers. Repetitive speeches and addressing general issues during I'tikaf should be avoided.”
He emphasized, “Imam Khomeini (r.a.) was a pioneer in introducing Ma’arifah and practical mysticism into the social sphere. Historically, our mystics tended to be reclusive, and it was rare for mystics to bring their teachings into society and contribute to its growth. The late Imam had the remarkable ability to bring practical mysticism into the public domain. During the Sacred Defense era, it was said that we saw mystics on the battlefield who hadn’t even grown full beards but truly understood mysticism. When soldiers at the front requested to take a photo with the great mystic Mirza Javad Tehrani, he would reply, ‘I will allow you to take a photo on the condition that you intercede for me on the Day of Judgment’.”
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